|
|
|
|
This week I attended Groton Subvets annual Memorial Day Ceremony, where they remember the submariners we have lost. I am always proud to represent the Submarine Capitol of the World and remembering those we have lost comes as part of that responsibility.
Thank you to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country - we are so grateful |
|
In this week's eblast, you can read about absentee voting, Groton utilities, and more. You can click the links below to navigate between sections.
|
|
|
Please see below for important information from the New London Police Department on the Gold Star Bridge construction:
IMPORTANT TRAFFIC ALERT: Gold Star Bridge I-95 Project Update
Major Lane Configuration Change Coming May 30-31, 2026
The Connecticut Department of Transportation's Gold Star Bridge project is reaching a critical milestone that will impact I-95 travel for the next four years.
OVERNIGHT WORK - SATURDAY, MAY 30TH:
When: Saturday, May 30th, 8:00 PM through Sunday, May 31st, 8:00 AM
What: Installation of the I-95 Northbound Crossover
Impact: Lane closures on I-95 Northbound during this 12-hour window
This date was strategically selected based on the lowest expected traffic volumes and to provide contractors the maximum time needed to complete extensive roadway modifications safely.
NEW PERMANENT TRAFFIC PATTERN - BEGINS MAY 31ST:
Starting Sunday, May 31, 2026, a new four-year traffic configuration will be in effect:
· Through Traffic (continuing north): Use 2 lanes that will cross
over to the southbound bridge
· Local Traffic (New London/Downtown Groton): Use 2 lanes
remaining on the existing northbound bridge
· Exit 86: Accessible ONLY via the I-95 crossover lanes
· Exit 85: Accessible ONLY via the existing northbound bridge
local lanes
Thank you for your patience as we all work together to improve our infrastructure.
|
|
Last night it was great to join Electric Boat at the Garde Arts Center for their high school signing day, which is high school students have signed up to work at Electric Boat after completing graduation.
Over 300 young adults were in attendance and another roughly 400 will be joining them, for a total of roughly 700 high school hires. This is essential to filling the 8,000 workers the company needs to hire to continue building our nation's submarine fleet.
Congratulations to all the young individuals in starting their careers and best of luck in your future endeavors! |
|
It was great celebrating all of the New London Public Schools Students this evening for their award recognition ceremony for students, staff, and teachers.
Also this evening, Bennie Dover Jackson Multi-Magnet Middle School was recognized by the Board as earlier this year was named the 2026 CT Association of Schools (CAS) Middle School of the Year for its inclusive practices, instructional excellence, and commitment to the whole child.
Congratulations to all for their work and making New London Public Schools a great place!
|
|
Please note that the Groton Utilities have expanded their office hours!
Starting next week, the City of Groton Municipal Building will be open on Mondays from 8am-6pm and Fridays from 8am-noon to pay bills or resolve other matters in person. There will also be phone support available on Saturdays from 8am-noon. |
|
|
A new law provides all eligible voters in Connecticut with the option of casting a vote via absentee ballots.
Public Act 26-42 removes certain restrictions that previously limited absentee ballots to voters who could not appear in person on Election Day for a narrow set of reasons. With this change, any eligible voter who prefers to vote absentee may now do so.
The voters of Connecticut demanded Absentee Voting For All after they overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment in 2024. The new law takes effect immediately.
The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy. Expanding access to absentee ballots strengthens participation, increases flexibility, and ensures every voter has a convenient and secure option to make their voice heard.
To vote by absentee ballot, eligible voters must complete an absentee ballot application and submit it to their town clerk. Applications can also be submitted online through the Office of the Secretary of the State’s secure portal. For more information on applying for an absentee ballot, visit myvote.ct.gov.
|
|
I wanted to share the 2026 Legislative Session Major Public Acts document with you. The document, composed by the Office of Legislative Research (OLR) with assistance from the Office of Fiscal Analysis (OFA), briefly describes the most significant, far-reaching, and publicly debated acts adopted by the General Assembly in the 2026 regular session. You can click HERE to read the full OLR report, or click the graphic below.
If you're interested in more information on bills that passed and didn't pass this legislative session, please click HERE.
|
|
|
May is Mental Health Awareness Month.
If you are in need of mental health services and don't know where to start, here is a list of resources for Connecticut residents:
- 2-1-1 General Resources 24-hour crisis phone numbers: finding services, education, prevention, counseling services, support groups, advocacy. Call 211
- Mental Health Connecticut Offers a mental health concierge, art therapy and residential and supportive mental health services. mhconn.org or 860.529.1970
- CTSupportGroup.ORG The CT Support Group is an online project developed by young people to provide connection, peer-led support, and community for their peers.
- CT Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services You can search for services available in your area through their regional services locator. portal.ct.gov/dmhas
|
|
The Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA) has officially launched the MyCHESLA Grad Loan, a new state-based graduate loan program designed to preserve access to affordable, fixed-rate financing for Connecticut students pursuing advanced degrees following the elimination of the federal Grad PLUS loan program, effective July 1.
CHESLA’s new graduate loan program supports students enrolled in both graduate and professional degree programs.
Borrowers can choose from repayment terms of 5, 10, or 15 years, along with flexible in-school repayment options, including interest-only payments, full deferment, or immediate principal-and-interest payments. Combined, these options provide borrowers with nine fixed-rate offerings tailored to meet a range of financial needs.
Importantly, all approved borrowers have equal access to the same nine fixed rates, ensuring a transparent, fair, and consistent pricing structure.
|
|
Celebrate Connecticut Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7! The Connecticut Forest & Park Association is coordinating more than 200 hikes and walks across the state, offering a wonderful opportunity to explore Connecticut’s natural beauty and enjoy the outdoors.
Now in its 33rd year, this beloved tradition brings together thousands of participants to experience Connecticut’s incredible trail network and scenic landscapes. This year’s theme, Explore Where You Live, encourages residents to discover the trails, parks, and open spaces in their own communities.
Events are designed for all ages, abilities, and experience levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging outdoor adventure or a relaxing, family-friendly walk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
To find a hike or walk that interests you anywhere in Connecticut, visit www.trailsday.org.
|
|
Sincerely,
Dan Gaiewski
State Representative |
|
|
|
|
|
|
