Formica, Somers, France Applaud Mohegans’ Redevelopment Plans for Norwich Hospital Property
January 19, 2017
Preston – Senator Paul Formica (R-20), Senator Heather Somers (R-18) and Representative Mike France (R-42) (pictured in attached photo from left to right) on Tuesday attended the unveiling of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority’s plan to redevelop the former Norwich Hospital property as a tourism destination.
“Seeing this redevelopment plan come together is an incredible step forward for our region. Tourism is a key factor in expanding our economy and developing new job opportunities, especially here in eastern Connecticut. These plans show a renewed commitment to make our part of the state an even greater hub for growth,” said Sen. Formica.
“I was very honored to attend the announcement by Mohegan Sun and the Town of Preston on a major economic development plan that could lead to $200 to $800 million of private investment at the former Norwich state hospital. Credit is due to the Mohegan Tribe Chairman Kevin Brown, Gov. Dannel Malloy, Congressman Joe Courtney, many local legislators – Republican and Democrat – who helped keep the program moving. Special credit to Preston First Selectman Robert Congdon for not letting up and persevering. This announcement exemplifies the great work that can be done with dedication and cooperation of local and state officials with a common goal to grow our economy while also maintaining the trusted stewardship of our beautiful environment,” said Sen. Somers.
“Congratulations to the residents of Preston, who took a significant risk to acquire the former Norwich State Hospital property eight years ago,” said Rep. France. “Under the leadership of First Selectman Bob Congdon and Preston Redevelopment Agency Chair Sean Nugent and with the partnership of The Mohegan Tribe, DEEP and DECD, we can see the future of another vibrant tourist destination in Southeastern Connecticut rising up from a long-dormant piece of state property. This is a great day for Preston residents, The Mohegan Tribe, our region and the tourism industry in the state of Connecticut.”
The Mohegans’ plan involves forming partnerships to redevelop the 393-acre former state mental illness institution into a center for entertainment with opportunities for a theme park, hotels, housing, sports venues, campgrounds, and a waterfront area with a ferry connection to Mohegan Sun. Projects would begin after environmental cleanup is completed, with the Mohegan tribal planners estimating construction could begin around 2020.
Senator Formica serves as Co-Chair of Tourism Caucus. He represents the 20th Senate District including the communities of Bozrah, East Lyme, Montville, New London, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Salem, and Waterford.
Senator Somers represents the 18th Senate District including the towns of Griswold, Groton, North Stonington, Plainfield, Preston, Sterling, Stonington and Voluntown.
Representative France serves the 42nd House District representing Ledyard, Montville and Preston.