State Senator Len Fasano Announces Federal Stimulus Money for Foreclosure Assistance in 34th District East Haven, Wallingford Selected to Receive Part of $3.6 Million Grant

Hartford, CT – State Senator Len Fasano (R-North Haven) announced today two communities in the 34th District have been tapped to receive federal stimulus dollars under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. East Haven and Wallingford have been selected to receive funding to pay for the rehabilitation of select neighborhoods by purchasing and renovating foreclosed and vacant properties. The properties can then be re-sold at affordable prices to lower income families. The towns can also use the money to upgrade infrastructure like sewer, streets and sidewalks in those neighborhoods.

“This fiscal crisis has touched us all and during these tough economic times it is critical that we provide as best we can for the families and individuals who need it most,” said Senator Fasano. “This stimulus money will not only be used to revitalize some of our area’s neighborhoods, it will also provide homes for those who may have had trouble making ends meet during this economic downturn.”

Under the ARRA, the state will receive $3,616,527 in Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. This allocation plan was developed by the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD). East Haven and Wallingford are among 12 communities set to receive the funding along with: Ansonia, Bloomfield, Enfield, Killingly, Naugatuck, New Milford, Plainfield, Shelton, Torrington and Windsor. The communities were selected based on the foreclosure rates determined by the Neighborhood Stimulation Program (NSP) in 2008. All funds must be spent by September 30th, 2012.

“I am grateful two communities in the 34th District have been selected to receive this critical funding,” said Senator Fasano. “I am confident it will enhance the quality and character of some of the neighborhoods that need it most.”

A public hearing was held in Hartford on Wednesday on the grant. A final proposal will be sent to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for final approval.

For more on the stimulus funding visit the state’s stimulus site at www.ct.gov. Click on CT Recovery.

Senator Fasano represents the 34th District communities of North Haven, East Haven and Wallingford. His press secretary is Rachel Reese. She may be reached at 860.240.8865 or via email at [email protected].