State Bond Commission Approves $2 Million for SAEP Redevelopment

State Bond Commission meeting, September 8: (from left) Jim Cabrera, Gov. Ned Lamont, Mayor David Chess, State Rep. Joseph P. Gresko, and Ted Lane. Jim Cabrera and Ted Lane are with Point Stratford Renewal.

The Connecticut State Bond Commission approved $2 million in state bond funding for the redevelopment of the former Stratford Army Engine Plant at its September 8 meeting, alongside $1.3 million for track improvements at Bunnell High School. The funding was welcomed by State Rep. Joseph P. Gresko and members of the Stratford delegation as a step toward revitalizing the long-vacant 77-acre waterfront property.

"This is another step toward bringing the property back onto the tax rolls after sitting dormant for 30 years," Gresko wrote in an open letter to constituents in the 141st District following the funding approval.

Demolition of buildings that have completed abatement is underway, with site clearing anticipated by spring 2027. The project remains under the oversight of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, which has served as lead remediation agency, with development guided by state flood resiliency standards.

"I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for supporting both projects that will benefit the town of Stratford," Gresko said.

Governor Ned Lamont, Mayor David Chess, and Point Stratford Renewal's Jim Cabrera, Ted Lane, and Peter Cabrera attended the September 8 State Bond Commission meeting.