Dear Neighbor,
This week, I had the opportunity to tour Amazon’s BDL4 fulfillment center in Windsor with a bipartisan delegation of State Representatives, thanks to an invitation from CBIA and Amazon. Opened in 2022, BDL4 is one of Amazon’s most active facilities in the state and plays a critical role in the company’s supply chain as part of the “first mile” network. |
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| During the visit, I was able to see firsthand how more than 3,000 employees each year help keep the operation running—picking, packing, and shipping a wide variety of products, from books and toys to housewares and electronics. |
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| The scale, efficiency, and use of state-of-the-art technology at BDL4 were impressive, and it was a valuable chance to better understand how one of Connecticut’s largest private employers continues to invest and grow in our state. |
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| I’m grateful to CBIA and Amazon for organizing the tour and for the opportunity to learn more about the impact facilities like BDL4 have on both the local economy and the global marketplace. |
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| Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them! |
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| I had the pleasure of joining the Orchard Valley Garden Club for a special presentation on Sustainable CT. |
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| The program highlighted how 139 communities across Connecticut are working toward sustainability by promoting health and wellness, supporting housing, addressing climate challenges, improving transportation, encouraging land stewardship, and more. Sustainable CT also provides matching grants to member communities to help turn these goals into action. |
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| While Southington is not yet a participating community, groups like the Orchard Valley Garden Club are sparking important conversations about how we can work together to protect our environment and build a more sustainable future. I am grateful to the Garden Club for their leadership and commitment to stewardship of the earth, and I look forward to learning more about their efforts. |
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| Public Safety Hearing on Fire |
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| Earlier this week, I attended a Public Safety and Security Committee forum reviewing the results of the statewide fire safety survey. With 107 Connecticut fire departments responding, including career, volunteer, and hybrid departments, the survey provided important insight into the challenges and needs of fire services across the state. |
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| The discussion focused on recruitment and retention, funding needs, operations, and future legislation. Experts also highlighted how communications impact fire safety, the demands of training, the importance of firefighter health and wellness, and the evolving role of EMS. |
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| The forum was informative and provided valuable insight into the resources, training, and stability needed to ensure our fire services can continue protecting our communities. |
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| Business After Hours Meets Fiesta |
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| This week’s Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours networking event was held at the recently re-opened and newly operated Señor Panchos on Queen Street. |
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| While I always appreciate the opportunity to catch up with chamber members, I have to say the food, drink, and mariachi band were truly the highlight. |
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| The new owners Pedro Rodriguez & Claudio Santiago, and partner Andy Adames (brother of former owner, Eddie Adames) were welcoming and gracious. They shared details about the different types of events, meetings, and private gatherings they are able to host for groups in our community, in addition to being open seven days a week for folks looking to enjoy a night out with family and friends! |
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| Plantsville Corner Park Update |
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I’m pleased to share that construction of the Plantsville pocket park is underway and moving along quickly. Town staff report that contractors expect to complete the project within the next three weeks.
This project is of great interest to me because during my time on the Southington Town Council, I worked with former Town Manager Mark Sciota and former Town Councilor Dawn Miceli to negotiate the purchase of the corner lot from the Zommer family and set aside the funds to develop the space. Our vision was to create a pocket park as the final step of the Plantsville Safety Improvement Project, which was recently completed. |
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| The park will feature benches, tables, a paver walkway, and an illuminated stone wall—similar to the wall at the new library—wrapping the corner. Once finished, it will beautify downtown Plantsville, improve safety, and contribute to local economic growth. I’m looking forward to enjoying a coffee from a local shop there later this fall. |
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Last week marked World Alzheimer’s Day (September 21)—a reminder of the importance of supporting individuals and families impacted by this disease. During the 2025 legislative session, we took meaningful steps forward by passing legislation to:
- Require insurance coverage of biomarker testing beginning next year
- Establish the Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia Task Force to examine needs, review available services, and develop a comprehensive State Alzheimer’s Plan
These initiatives will help improve early detection, expand resources, and strengthen Connecticut’s long-term response to Alzheimer’s and dementia.
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| Expect Delays on I-84 Next Week |
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Drivers can expect delays on I-84 in both directions at Exit 31 in Southington as crews survey operations to support bridge improvements. There will be lane closures starting Tuesday, September 30 through Friday, October 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m..
The Connecticut Department of Transportation may change the timeline based on weather or unforeseen conditions. They ask that drivers slow down in the work zone. |
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CTDOT Active Transportation
Plan Open Houses |
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The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is developing its Active Transportation Plan, a statewide effort to improve biking, walking, and other non-motorized travel options. This fall, CTDOT will host a series of open houses to share updates and gather public feedback. All locations are ADA accessible.
Upcoming Dates:
- Mansfield – Sept. 30, 6–8 p.m., Town Hall
- New London – Oct. 1, 6–8 p.m., City Hall
- Windsor Locks – Oct. 2, 6–8 p.m., Town Hall
- Middletown – Oct. 14, 6–8 p.m., City Hall
- Waterbury - Oct. 15, 6-8 p.m., City Hall
- New Britain – Oct. 16, 6–8 p.m., Police Department
Community input is vital to shaping safer, more accessible transportation networks across the state. Residents are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and share ideas.
For more details or to submit comments, CLICK HERE to visit the Connecticut Active Transportation Plan website.
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| Great Opportunity for High School Students |
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The Connecticut Automatic Admission Program (CAAP) guarantees automatic college admission to students with strong grades. This program waives the application fee, student essays, and recommendation letters for participating institutions. Seniors with a 3.0 weighted GPA or 2.75 unweighted GPA can apply to 10 participating public and private colleges with just one free application.
Participating colleges and universities include:
🎓 Central Connecticut State University
🎓 Eastern Connecticut State University
🎓 Southern Connecticut State University
🎓 Western Connecticut State University
🎓 Albertus Magnus College
🎓 Goodwin University
🎓 Mitchell College
🎓 University of Bridgeport
🎓 University of Hartford
🎓 University of New Haven
For more information and application instructions, visit www.ct.edu/autoadmit. |
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| Public Health Collaboration |
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Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and New York City officially announced the formation of the Northeast Public Health Collaborative. This voluntary regional partnership aims to strengthen public health coordination, share expertise, and improve preparedness across state lines.
The Collaborative’s shared purpose is to work together in new ways – optimizing the use of shared resources, innovating and reimagining core services – to ensure trust in public health, respond to public health threats, advance community health and strengthen confidence in vaccines and science-based medicine. |
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| Get Ready for the Apple Harvest |
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| The Apple Harvest festival kicks off next Friday, October 3, and runs through October 12 on and around the Southington Town Green. Festival highlights include food, vendors, live music, rides, the YMCA road race, the annual parade featuring Grand Marshal Cheryl Lounsbury, the crafts fair, and—of course—fresh apple fritters available daily. |
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| Oak Hill Cemetery Walking Tour |
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The Barnes Museum invites you to join a guided walking tour of Oak Hill Cemetery on Saturday, October 4 at 10:00 a.m. and Saturday, October 11 at 9:00 a.m. Located at 33 Queen Street in Southington, this tour offers a unique way to explore local history, discover fascinating stories and legends, and appreciate the beauty of this historic resting place.
No registration is required—simply come and enjoy the experience. A suggested $10 donation supports the museum’s educational programs. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended, and all ages are welcome. |
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| The best bargains are at the Southington Public Library Friends Bookstore. Shop anytime by CLICKING HERE. |
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| Supporting First Responders Beyond the Call |
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Law Enforcement Suicide Prevention Day is a solemn reminder that trauma doesn’t end when the call does. Many police officers and frontline workers silently carry the pain of what they’ve witnessed. In 2024, the law was updated so workers diagnosed with PTSD from such events can qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Honoring their service means supporting their recovery.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) offer confidential, 24/7 support for first responders, providing telephonic help and crisis intervention. This program can be accessed by calling 1-833-253-1129. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 for free, confidential support available 24/7. |
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| Autumn has arrived, which marks the official start of fall, when the days get shorter, the air gets crisper, and we welcome beautiful changes! 🍂🍁 |
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| As always, if I can be of assistance, please reach out to me at 860-240-8585 or email me at Chris.Poulos@cga.ct.gov. Don't forget to "LIKE" my Facebook page for news and legislative updates! |
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Sincerely,
Chris Poulos
State Representative |
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