Kudos to sponsors of a New London community center

New London City Council President should get a city leadership award for his efforts to bring to life a community center in New London. Passero, according to this story by JC Reindl, is rounding up legislative support to get state money for the much needed project.

Passero recently asked local legislators to make a formal request for state bond funds for the project. Construction costs are estimated at $15 million to $20 million, with potential contributions from the city, private partners and federal grants.

On Thursday, the Commerce Committee agreed to propose legislation this session that would provide up to $8 million in state bond funds for the community center. The bill still needs to clear the committee and both legislative chambers.

Leading the effort is state Sen. Andrea Stillman, D-Waterford, and state Reps. Ernest Hewett, D-New London; Ted Moukawsher, D-Groton; Elissa Wright, D-Groton; and Betsy Ritter, D-Waterford.

And wouldn't a waterfront community center be a great anchor in a revitalized Riverside Park?