New London To Receive $6 Million In Grants for Community Projects

NEW LONDON, CT — State Sen. Martha Marx (D-New London) welcomed a vote advancing $6.02 million in state grants for two major projects in New London, according to a statement.

The bipartisan Community Investment Fund 2030 board approved the funding, which now awaits final approval from the State Bond Commission within 60 days.

The Mercer Community Hall project will receive $4 million to support renovations and expansion in partnership with the Garde Arts Center. The project aims to create an affordable event space and boost community engagement through the arts.

Organizers hope to host 270 events in the first year and double that by year five, with plans for town halls, cultural festivals, and workshops.

Planned Parenthood of Southern New England will also receive $2.02 million to relocate and expand its New London health center at 467 Ocean Avenue. The facility is expected to serve over 5,500 people annually, improving access to reproductive and family planning services.

"To know these funds are one step closer to providing a new venue for local events, adding another draw for the surrounding region, and promoting better health and access to care throughout New London is reassuring and wildly positive for our community," Marx said in a statement. "They're the kind of investments that revitalize our community and provide our city with valuable resources that will last for decades."

The Community Investment Fund, created in 2021, supports economic development in historically underserved communities. It provides funding for infrastructure, housing, clean energy, small businesses, and community projects across Connecticut.