Rep Fahrbach, Sen Kissel: Windsor to Receive $500,000 in State Grants

State Representative Ruth Fahrbach, R-Windsor, and Sen. John A. Kissel, R-Enfield, today announced the State Bond Commission is expected to award the Town of Windsor $500,000 towards three local projects: The SummerWind Performing Arts Center, redevelopment of the former Plaza Theater and redevelopment of a parcel of land in the Wilson neighborhood. The commission is scheduled to meet at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 25.

Rep. Fahrbach and Sen. Kissel thanked Governor John G. Rowland for supporting the grants to Windsor, which were administered under the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP).

The $100,000 grant for SummerWind will be used to help defray capitol costs associated with the construction of this new outstanding regional arts facility that during its premier 2002 season brought thousands of individuals from throughout Connecticut and neighboring states to Windsor.

“SummerWind has established a very valuable cultural arts center for out community,” said Rep. Fahrbach. “SummerWind’s first season was a tremendous success and this award bodes will for its future success.”

“I am impressed at the state’s continued commitment towards improving the arts,” said Sen. Kissel. “The SummerWind Performing Arts Center hosts several music festivals and concerts each year and is a wonderful attraction for the residents of Windsor.

The $100,000 grant for renovating the Plaza Theater will be used in conjunction with private funds for the project. The Town of Windsor is negotiating with two non-profit organizations that will utilize the building. The theater operated as a movie theater from the 1940’s through 1997, when it closed.

“The theater is a downtown landmark that can be preserved for future use by community groups,” said Rep. Fahrbach. “This award is a start to the renovation process and a continuation of efforts to revitalize Windsor Center.”

Finally, the $300,000 in STEAP funding for the Wilson neighborhood project will be used to purchase and prepare a 3.2-acre parcel for redevelopment. The parcel is adjacent to a 4-acre site owned by the Town of Windsor. The combined 7.2 acres is then scheduled to be developed by a public-private partnership, resulting in more than $6 million in reinvestment in the neighborhood.

“This funding is a first step in bringing residential, commercial and retail space to the Wilson neighborhood,” said Rep. Fahrbach. “Once completed, it will generate tax revenue for the Town of Windsor.”