WASHINGTON, D.C. – January 13, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — State Senator Joseph J. Crisco, Jr. (D-Woodbridge) and State Representatives Linda M. Gentile, Theresa Conroy and Themis Klarides today applauded the State Bond Commission’s approval of a grant in aid for urban planning and revitalization development for downtown Derby.
“This grant will help Derby move its economy forward,” said Senator Crisco. “The funding will help us find ways to better utilize and develop Derby’s downtown, and bring new life to our community. I want to thank Representative Gentile in particular for her advocacy and Governor Malloy for his support of this project.”
“Revitalization of this region in Derby will help bring enhanced economic development to the community, fostering job creation and growth,” Governor Malloy said. “We are making these investments because they will ultimately facilitate a lasting, positive impact and make Derby an even more wonderful place to visit.”
The city of Derby will receive $445,000 for the project which consists of a review of prior plans, a site assessment, revised development zones, design guidelines, economic analyses, public input and development of conceptual and detailed redevelopment plans. A cohesive plan will make the downtown hub more user-friendly.
“I want to thank Governor Malloy and the members of the Bond Commission for their support to upgrade downtown Derby,” said Rep. Gentile. “Governor Malloy understands the challenges that affect smaller cities. Downtown Derby has laid fallow for too long. These funds will go toward needed updates.”
“The state’s economic future is tied to the health of our downtowns,” Rep. Conroy said. “This is an investment in Derby that will pay dividends for the region and the state.”
Rep. Klarides said, “The economic revitalization of downtown Derby has been a long time coming. This makes sense from every vantage point. We will produce a blue print for Derby that will greatly advance economic revitalization raise opportunities for the next generation.’’
“I’m happy the Governor believes in Derby,” said Derby Mayor Anita Dugatto. “These funds will catapult the city toward smart economic development. We will finally have a plan and approach for redevelopment that is logical, economically feasible, and most importantly, readily implementable.”
