February 3, 2004

WATERBURY- State Representative Selim Noujaim (R-74^th District) today announced three grants for important projects in his district in the City of Waterbury. The three grants, approved by the State Bond Commission last Friday, will bring half a million dollars to the 74th District.

The Commission approved $200,000 for improvements to Hamilton Park, for repairs to tennis courts, basketball courts, and baseball fields. $50,000 was authorized for repairs to sidewalks and fencing around the Chase School, which have deteriorated causing a hazard to students and pedestrians. The remaining $250,000 was approved for use at the former Mattatuck Manufacturing building to begin the process of studying and implementing a revitalization of the site.

“These are all very significant and important projects, which will be a tremendous benefit for all residents of Waterbury,” said Representative Noujaim. “I am very excited about the funding for these three projects, which I have focused a great deal of attention to while serving in the legislature. These funds would not have been available without the efforts of Governor John Rowland, and I thank him for recognizing the importance of these requests.”

Noujaim noted that he has had a great deal of success cleaning up what was once a community eyesore at the location of the Mattatuck building, and the new grant will help continue the process.

“The Mattatuck problem is long-standing and has required a lot of work. But we are closer now to finally resolving it,” said Representative Noujaim. “The community should be aware that they will continue to have significant input on what the final resolution is, and what is finally done with the property.”