Huge Investment Into the Future of Waterbury

June 24, 2026

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Investment to Transform Blighted Properties
  • Talking About the Future of Transportation
  • Strengthening Ties Between
    CT & Puerto Rico
  • Celebrating Our Best Theater Students
 

Investment to Transform Blighted Properties

The state is taking another big step in helping redevelop Waterbury by investing $4.2 million to clean up unused and blighted properties, helping revitalize our neighborhoods, attract new businesses, create jobs, and expand housing opportunities.

The largest award, $4 million, will support the next phase of environmental cleanup and remediation at the former Anamet site. The funding, awarded to the Waterbury Development Corporation, will advance work on the 17.46-acre property and prepare it for future redevelopment as a commercial warehouse, distribution facility, and office complex.

In addition, $200,000 has been set aside to the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments to assess the historic clock tower building adjacent to the Waterbury train station. The funding will identify and address environmental concerns to the 2.75-acre site and lay the groundwork for its redevelopment. Plans for the property include the creation of 40 residential apartment units, bringing new housing opportunities to the area.

These investments are part of a statewide initiative that is providing $15.2 million to redevelop 12 blighted properties across the state through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Brownfield Remediation and Development Program.
 

Talking About the Future of Transportation

I was pleased to join the community for a productive conversation on the future of transportation in Waterbury and the Naugatuck Valley. Together, local leaders, advocates and community members explored new opportunities to improve our highways, rail service, and public transit.

As vice chair of the Waterbury Line Caucus, I remain committed to advocating for reliable, accessible, and efficient transportation options across our region. Investing in transportation infrastructure improves mobility while supporting economic growth, access to jobs, and quality of life.

Thank you to Bridge to Success for hosting  this important forum and bringing our community together to discuss solutions that help move us forward.
 

Strengthening Ties Between CT & Puerto Rico

It was an honor to join the Puerto Rico Trade Commission for its inaugural meeting as we begin the important work of strengthening economic, educational, and cultural ties between Connecticut and Puerto Rico.

The commission, which we established in 2025, is focused on advancing bilateral trade and investment, promoting business and academic partnerships, expanding workforce development opportunities, and addressing issues of mutual interest.
With nearly 300,000 Puerto Ricans calling Connecticut home, this commission represents an exciting opportunity for collaboration, new economic opportunities, and shared prosperity.
 

I am grateful for the leadership of co-chairs Rep. Chris Rosario and Sen. Jorge Cabrera for making this initiative a success. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to strengthen these connections and deliver meaningful results.
 

Celebrating Our Best Theater Students

It was a privilege to celebrate the achievements of Connecticut’s best high school theater students at the annual Halo Awards held at the historic Palace Theater. Organizers recognized outstanding performers, singers, technical crew, directors, and many other deserving honorees whose hard work brought life to their productions.

The four-day celebration was filled with energy, excitement, and creativity as students, their families, and theater supporters dressed up for the red carpet and honor the best our state has to offer.

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. I can’t wait to celebrate at next year’s event.