Big Funding News!

June 13, 2024

Good news! The State Bonding Commission has officially approved $3.5 million in state funds for the Copper and Brass Site. 

These funds are part of a series of funds I've secured for Ansonia, totaling $23,440,000, including: 

  • $500,000 in state funds in 2020 for environmental clean-up and demolition of the SHW/Farrel Foundry site 
  • $1,000,000 in state funds in 2021 for environmental clean-up and demolition of the SHW/Farrel site 
  • $2,000,000 in state funds in 2021 for redevelopment of the 175,000-square-foot Ansonia Copper and Brass Extrusion Mill building 
  • $200,000 in state funds in 2022 for additional assessment and planning related to the SHW/Farrel site's redevelopment 
  • $6,500,000 in state funds in 2022 for the restoration of an access bridge at the Ansonia Copper & Brass industrial complex for vehicles 
  • $540,000 in state funds in 2022 to restore or remove two pedestrian bridges located at the Ansonia Copper & Brass complex and SHW/Farrel site 
  • $6,700,000 in state funds in 2023 to excavate and dispose of contaminated soils, remediation of an additional building, and demolition at the SHW/Farrel site 
  • $2,500,000 in state funds in 2023 for the remediation and demolition of the casting shop, storage shed, and powerhouse on the Ansonia Copper & Brass Site 

In addition, U.S Congresswomen Rosa DeLauro secured $2,900,000 in July 2022 to aid in the demolition on the SHW/Farrell Site. 

I've also proudly secured $1,200,000 in annual state funds to increase service on the Waterbury Rail Line, adjacent to the Ansonia Brass/SHW/Farrell redevelopment site. Increased service started in July of 2022. Over $10 million in additional dollars were also secured to upgrade and modernize the train stations in Ansonia and Derby, which is in the design stage. An estimated $60 million has also been spent for new rail cars for the Waterbury line as well. Those are ordered and in queue for production for the Waterbury rail line. 

This is about bringing economic stability and real opportunity to the people of the 104th. I’m so proud to bring this $3.5 million home to continue our work in cleaning up the Ansonia Copper & Brass site. It’s so important we return this site to use, getting it on our tax roles and bringing good jobs, transportation-oriented housing, mixed use development, or other assets to our downtown.

Since day one this site has been a high priority for me and the totals on what we’ve brought in to clean up and revitalize the site speak for itself. I want to thank Governor Lamont, Speaker Matt Ritter, Majority Leader Jason Rojas, House Bonding Chair Rep. Ron Napoli, my state delegation partner in this effort Senator Cabrera, and local officials for this team effort. We’re making a real difference and I’m so happy for what this means for the people of Ansonia and the entire Lower Valley. 

Governor Lamont has taken a strong interest in redeveloping the Lower Valley in recent years with numerous trips to walk both main streets in Ansonia and Derby and review potential development sites. His most recent trip was this past Monday to tour the Ansonia Copper and Brass site to better understand the revitalization of the area. 
 
Here are some quotes from a recent press release about these critical funds: 

"Kara has been a powerhouse in securing funds for the economic redevelopment of downtown Ansonia,” said Speaker Matt Ritter. “This $3.5 million adds onto over $15 million she has already secured for Ansonia Copper and Brass, SHW, and Farrell sites in her district. This funding is a direct result of her passion, professionalism, and hard work. The city of Ansonia should thank Rep. Rochelle and celebrate this win she delivered.” 

"As the House Bonding Subcommittee Chair, State Representative Kara Rochelle was a tireless advocate for this phase of funding for the Ansonia Copper and Brass Project,” Rep. Ron Napoli commented. “Because of her and Senator Cabrera’s collaborative efforts, the City of Ansonia will receive this historic bonding award for economic development. It was a pleasure to work closely with Rep. Rochelle on a project that will improve quality of life for the residents of Asonia.”  

"I'm thrilled to welcome $3.5 million for this project, which allows Ansonia to continue to grow and succeed" said Sen. Jorge Cabrera. "Over the last few years, we have made substantial investments in multiple projects across the Valley, including the former Ansonia Copper Brass building, which will grow jobs, spur economic development and provide new opportunities for businesses and residents to thrive. I look forward to continuing to work with stakeholders to develop plans and see how we can build upon all the work that's already being done.”