COVID Update, Local Funding, and more

September 29, 2023


 
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Dear Neighbor,

Greetings on this rainy day, where you may be bracing for flooding, curled up with a book, still working, or looking forward to the weekend’s events. Whatever the case may be, I hope you stay safe out on the roads, remain as dry as possible, and reach out if you have any questions about either the items below or anything else on your mind.
 
Free COVID Tests Available
As I learned at two recent hospital visits (as a legislator, not a patient ), COVID hospitalizations are ticking up. Though not as high as this time last year, the federal government recently announced the availability of free COVID tests. You can apply for them here.
 
COVID Vaccine and Flu Shots Available
COVID vaccines and Flu Shots are now available at local pharmacies, some via appointment.

The Bridgeport CVS on Main Street is offering Moderna booster and RSV vaccine (for 65 years of age or older) by appointment only. The Fairfield Health Department will be holding their annual flu clinics. See below for the graphic which includes dates and times.
 
DPH Dashboard/Tracking Available

The Connecticut Department of Public Health has launched the 2023-2024 Viral Respiratory Disease Surveillance Dashboard. For those who would like to track trends for COVID, flu, and RSV, you can check there for up-to-date information.
 
Bridgeport Funding
In 2021, the legislature invested $350,000,000 in the creation of the Community Investment Fund, a group tasked with investing in economic development in our cities. With encouragement from Governor Lamont, the City of Bridgeport, and the Bridgeport Delegation, the Community Investment Fund has approved $22.5 million to assist in the teardown of the PSEG coal plant that is currently a prominent feature of the Bridgeport Harbor. 

Clearing this property will support the movement towards remediation and eventual redevelopment of an area that is no longer zoned for industrial use. This investment will allow the city to move towards mixed use development, including much needed housing as well as commercial and retail uses. The $22.5 million is on the October 6th State Bond Commission agenda for final and expected approval.

This is welcome news for the city and the region, as a thriving Bridgeport benefits both city residents as well as the surrounding communities.
 
Community Events
Over the years, we have shared many community announcements and events with you. See below for a donation request from the Fairfield Green Teams and a learning opportunity with the Fairfield Collaborative for Mental Health.
 
 
Please share this information with those who might find these resources and events helpful and of interest. You can also sign up for future e-mails. Have a wonderful weekend.

Sincerely,

Cristin McCarthy Vahey
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