January 6, 2012

REP. LARSON SAYS STATE GRANT CRITICAL
TO SOUTH WINDSOR STUDIO PROJECT

State Representative Tim Larson (D-East Hartford, South Windsor) said a state grant awarded South Windsor for public infrastructure improvements will help ensure the success of the planned Connecticut Studios project.

The project features a state-of-the-art movie studio production facility where Route 5 converges with I-291. This includes 6 to 8 sound stages, a mill building for set manufacturing, as well as executive and production offices. Ancillary development will include a 150-room hotel, retail, and several restaurants.

“This funding is not only important to our town, but also to the entire region as it will help ensure surrounding infrastructure properly supports the exciting Connecticut Studio project,” Larson said. “This is a major economic development initiative for this area and state support is critical to its eventual success.”

According to the Connecticut Economic Research Center (CERC), the studio is estimated to create 1,500 film production jobs with up to 5,000 jobs to support ongoing operations. During the development phase, over 500 union construction jobs will be created.

Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced the grant earlier this week as part of the state’s $20 million Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) that is used to upgrade infrastructure, strengthen business corridors and improve public spaces. “These projects are part of reinventing Connecticut and making us a stronger, highly competitive, and more vibrant state,” Malloy said.

“I thank Governor Malloy for recognizing the economic benefits of this important project and his commitment to helping it become a success,” added Larson.