Press Release Dec. 27: State Representatives Patricia Widlitz (D-Guilford, Branford) and Lonnie Reed (D-Branford) welcome the expected approval by the State Bond Commission of $1 million in state funding for the Soundview Family YMCA in Branford. 

The grant funds will assist with the construction of a new addition.   The Bond Commission is scheduled to meet Friday, January 3, 2014 in Room 1E in the Legislative Office Building

“We are so proud to be part of the effort to make the Soundview Family Y the outstanding community resource it is today,” said Rep. Widlitz, who as a member of the State Bond Commission was instrumental in securing the funding.

“It is especially important in these economically challenging times to have affordable places for families to go for recreation, exercise, supervised child care and activities, and places for teens to have fun. The Y provides activities for people of all ages. From the day it opened last summer it has been a hub of activity for our community,” said Rep. Widlitz, who is House chair of the legislature’s Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee.

“This is not only an important investment in affordable health and fitness for our citizens of all ages, it also supports a smart, regional approach to meeting community needs,” Rep. Reed said. “Membership at the Soundview Family Y continues to grow beyond the most optimistic predictions, requiring the need for expansion.”

The planned addition will include a full size gymnasium, an indoor playscape, classrooms and related improvements.   The estimated cost of the project is $5 million, with the remaining coming from outside sources.

Governor Malloy said, “The Soundview Family YMCA has become a great community resource in Branford, and this addition will help the organization continue its exceptional service to area residents.”

Soundview serves residents of Branford, East Haven, Guilford, Madison and North Branford.