House Republican Press Release

May 22, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. SCRIBNER ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR LOCAL PROJECTS

Bethel Disabled Facility, I-84, WestConn Projects To Receive State Monies

HARTFORD- State Representative David A. Scribner (R-Brookfield, Bethel) today announced the State Bond Commission is expected to approve funding for several local projects when it meets on Friday, May 30. The commission is scheduled to meet at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford beginning at 10:30 a.m.

The Ability Beyond Disability facility in Bethel is expected to receive a $329,570 grant for renovations that will allow it to develop a new day care program. The organization is a health and human services provider serving approximately 800 adults with moderate to significant disabilities, including developmental disabilities, mental retardation, traumatic brain injury, and mental illness.

“Ability Beyond Disability serves a vital role in our community by providing much needed services to disabled residents,” said Rep. Scribner. “I’m pleased we will be able to assist with renovations to its Bethel location.”

Part of a $59 million allocation expected to be delivered to the Department of Transportation (DOT) will cover resurfacing sections of Interstate 84 from Danbury to the New York state border. Rep. Scribner serves as Ranking Member (House Republican Leader) of the Legislature’s Transportation Committee.

“It is extremely important that we continue to keep this section of Interstate 84 well maintained,” said Rep. Scribner. “The funds will ultimately make for a smoother, safer roadway for everyone.”

Western Connecticut State University is expected to receive $12.1 million for the design of a new fine and performing arts building. The 169,112-square-foot building will house an 800 seat concert hall, a 500 seat proscenium theatre, a 200 seat recital hall, a 200 seat studio, art gallery, classrooms, conference rooms, various lab rooms, choral and orchestra rooms, 52 practice rooms, recording studio, rehearsal rooms, and faculty office and support space.

“The Fine and Performing Arts Building will not only serve WestConn students but our entire region,” said Rep. Scribner, A WestConn Alumni. “The state has made a tremendous investment in the university in the past decade and this building will be one of the most visible elements of that investment.”