Why do business in Connecticut?

Connecticut has approved $7.5 million for two economic-development projects intended to support West Haven’s downtown businesses and build a stronger connection between industry and the University of New Haven.

The city will receive $2.5 million for improvements around West Haven Green and the plaza and alleyway at 9 Curtiss Place. Part of that funding will establish a microgrant program for businesses in the Village Improvement District.

Eligible uses are expected to include tenant improvements, façade projects and initiatives that return vacant storefronts to productive use. Public areas will also be upgraded to accommodate entertainment and community events intended to bring more activity downtown.

The remaining $5 million will help the University of New Haven renovate a building complex at the former Railroad Salvage property in Allingtown. The planned Center for Innovation and Applied Technology will provide workforce-training facilities and space for business partners in technology-oriented industries.

The projects address economic development at two different scales. Downtown merchants could receive relatively modest assistance for visible, near-term improvements, while the Allingtown center is intended to support workforce preparation, technology commercialization and collaboration between employers and the university.