WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) announced the inclusion of over $8 million to support nine Community Project Funding (CPF) requests from the Fifth District in the FY26 budget signed into law by President Trump. These nine projects were included in a series of appropriations bills that included Agriculture, Commerce-Justice and Science, and Transportation-HUD. Congresswoman Jahana Hayes released the following statement regarding the funds:

“After two years of negotiations, I am pleased to announce $8,257,000 in Community Projects for the Fifth Congressional District. My office worked diligently to ensure these projects were prioritized and our district was not overlooked during the lengthy negotiations. The projects span the district, from Norfolk to New Britian. Constituents can expect to see groundbreaking ceremonies for new firehouses, park revitalizations, and long overdue library repairs. I remain committed to ensuring that funds are directed to our community.”

The community projects include: 

  • Avon: $1,700,000 for Talcott Mountain Science Center for Destination for Astrophysics & Data Science Education
    • To purchase state-of-the-art equipment for use in hands-on learning opportunities, both formal and informal, for K-12 students throughout the State of Connecticut.
  • Danbury: $700,000 for Public Safety Capacity and Technology Improvement Program
    • To enhance law enforcement capabilities, officer safety, and community protection.
  • New Britain: $850,000 for Central Connecticut Workforce and Innovation Hub
    • To create a Workforce and Innovation Hub (The Hub) at Central Connecticut State University.
  • Norfolk: $500,000 for the Norfolk New Fire House
    • For the overall construction process of a 52-year-old Norfolk firehouse.
  • Sandy Hook: $951,000 for Western Connecticut Training Facility - Equipment and Technology
    • For the purchase, delivery, and installation of firearm training facility equipment and technology.
  • Southbury: $1,500,000 for the Southbury Public Library
    • For repair of the Southbury Public Library after it was severely damaged during a historic flooding event in August 2024.
  • Thomaston: $850,000 for the Seth Thomas Park Revitalization
    • To make significant improvements to Seth Thomas Park, provide for better lighting, create improved walkability, and provide for Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility.
  • Waterbury: $175,000 for the Waterbury Police Activity League
    • To support youth activities at Waterbury PAL.
  • Statewide: $1,031,000 for QuantumCT Connect
    • The project includes four high-impact initiatives to make Connecticut a national hub for quantum technology: (1) Workforce Development; (2) Community Education and Engagement; (3) Quantum Technology Collaboration; and (4) Student Internships.