Park, Residential Project Get Major Boost From State Grants In New London

NEW LONDON, CT — Two grants worth a combined $625,000, will be administered to New London through the Community Investment Fund program, according to a statement from Sen. Martha Marx (D-New London).

The grants will be used to redevelop a vacant downtown building into 40 new apartment units and the planning and design of a new public park along Atlantic Street.

"New grant funds being delivered to our community for redevelopment in key areas is welcome news, as it furthers the emphasis of investing in New London," Marx said in a statement. "Support for dozens of new housing units, the long-term support for The Day newspaper and community planning to make sure all residents have resources for outdoor recreation and beautiful green spaces are all strong points of emphasis for New London's future."

The 208 State St. redevelopment project will receive $350,000 to support conversion of the vacant 20,000-square-foot structure in the downtown district into a three-story mixed-use facility, aiming to revitalize a blighted part of New London with frequently empty storefronts.

The project will create 40 new apartment units, including 20 workforce housing units, and 10,000 square feet of office space for New London's The Day newspaper.

The project is currently underway and is anticipated to be completed next year.

New London will also receive $250,000 for planning and design on Atlantic Street for a new public park.

The park is designed to serve downtown and create green space for recreation and community events.

The funds in particular will support a site and conditions assessment, environmental reviews and development of a preliminary park design.