Norwalk Receives State Funding

August 1, 2025



 

View this email in your browser

Dear Neighbor,

Great news - earlier today, the State Bond Commission approved nearly $25 million in funding for two Norwalk based projects:

  • $22 million to CT State Norwalk
  • $2.5 million to Norwalk Maritime Aquarium

This funding is a great victory for our community. CT State Norwalk is an excellent institution, and these funds will ensure that the quality of the facilities matches the quality of the education. The funding for the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium will allow the organization to move forward with their new strategic plan, which will, among other things, protect wildlife and natural habitats in the Long Island Sound. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for your continued investment into Norwalk.

 

The Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) announced the next round of Ignite and Child Care Business Grant Programs.

The Ignite Grant Program is designed to help women-owned businesses grow. The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the state of Connecticut who have been in business for 2 or more years and have revenues between $25K and $2 million. The application period for Ignite grants runs from August 5 through September 16, 2025. You can find additional information on Ignite here.   
 
The Child Care Business Opportunity Fund, offered in partnership with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC), provides grants of up to $25,000 to qualified licensed and aspiring child care businesses. The program offers grants targeting different stages of business, from start-ups to those ready to expand. The application period for Child Care Business grants runs from August 1 through August 31, 2025. You can find more information on the Child Care Business Opportunity Fund grants here.
 
Information sessions for both grant programs are scheduled throughout the application periods. These sessions will help applicants understand the grant requirements and provide an opportunity for those interested to ask questions about the grants. Interested applicants can register for a live information session here
 

On July 30th, Medicaid had its 60th birthday!  This program has transformed American healthcare over the past six decades. Medicaid is a lifeline for millions of children and families across the country, and for almost one-third of Connecticut residents. This program provides access to essential health services to our most vulnerable communities. Let's celebrate this milestone and do what we can to support Medicaid services while they are under attack by the Trump Administration. 

To honor 60 years of Medicaid, Connecticut Children's Medical Center created a list of 60 ways Medicaid continues to promote health, dignity, and opportunity for everyone. Click here to read more. 

 

New regulations will take effect for some electric bikes, or e-bikes, on October 1. The new law pertains to E-bikes without pedals and with batteries over 750 watts. They will be classified as motor-driven cycles and require a driver's license to operate them. E-bikes exceeding 3,500 watts will require registration and insurance, like motorcycles.

E-bikes are gaining popularity but medical professionals are warning that these bikes can be dangerous. Connecticut Children's Medical Center treated 25 e-bike injuries in May and June 2025, compared to three in May and June 2024.

Here’s what parents and kids need to know about riding e-bikes in Connecticut:

  • Speed limits matter: Class 2 e-bikes (the ones with a throttle) are capped at 20 mph. Class 3 models can go up to 28 mph—but only if they’re not throttle-powered
  • No passengers unless built for two: Most e-bikes aren’t designed for a second rider
  • Stay off the sidewalk: Unless otherwise posted, e-bikes are considered vehicles. They belong on the road, in the right lane
  • Be courteous and cautious: If riding on sidewalks or shared paths, yield to pedestrians
  • New in 2025: Class 1 e-bikes are now allowed on bikes and multi-use trails statewide, unless a town says otherwise.

Click here for more information. 

 

Website
Website

Email
Email

Facebook
Facebook

Forward to a friend | Unsubscribe from this list | Update subscription preferences