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NEW BRITAIN - The local New Britain delegation has apparently secured
$300,000 for Trinity-on-Main, and State Sen. Donald DeFronzo, D-New
Britain, says that it was the support of Gov. M Jodi Rell who helped get
the bonding initiative on the agenda,.
In a statement released by DeFronzo, he said that he expects the funds to
be approved when the State Bond Commission meets on Friday in Hartford.
"We’ve been working on this initiative since 2004, and now the funds are
finally going to be released. It’s an important step for Trinity to get
their hands on this money," DeFronzo said. "And, I don’t think it would’ve
been released without the governor’s support. The governor sets the agenda
and recommends to the State Bond Commission. I appreciate the governor’s
support of the project."
State Rep. Timothy O’Brien, D-New Britain, sits on the finance committee and
says that it took two years of persuading the governor that this project was
a good idea."Getting it on the agenda after two years is kind of a sore spot
for us, but the governor controls the Bond Commission agenda,"O’Brien
said."I believe it was passed now because there was a lot of pressure to get
it on the agenda.
Mayor Timothy Stewart is also happy that the governor supports the project
and is excited about what the money will mean for Trinity-on-Main.
"Although it’s not as much what we would’ve liked, it’s put us in a place
where we can start.
"It’s going to provide enough money to help with construction and
reconstruction to protect Trinity from the elements," Stewart said.
"It’s the centerpiece of New Britain, and it’s nice to see the support. It’s
a community-wide effort and they have shown so much commitment by supporting
the project."
DeFronzo believes the money will benefit the city for future years.
"This money, which will be used for historical preservation and roof repair,
will help to ensure that the facility will be available for all to enjoy for
years to come." DeFronzo said.
"It’s important that New Britain embraces its past and provides a place for
the arts to thrive in our city."
According to Stewart, the complete project cost is estimated at $2 million.
Trinity-on-Main has been raising money to restore the 115-year-old former
Trinity United Methodist Church in the downtown district.
The plan is to create a venue for theater, music and other forms of stage
presentations.
Franchone Fraser-Ben Reuben Bey can be reached at ffraser@newbritainherald.com
or by calling (860) 225-4601, Ext. 306. |