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State Reps. Tony Hwang (R-134) and Brenda Kupchick (R-132) along with state Sen. John McKinney (R-28) recently thanked the State Bond Commission, which approved the request Friday, Dec. 13, according to a statement.
The $100,000, which was originally appropriated in 2005 for a sprinkler system for the Fairfield Theatre Company facility, will allow it to start infrastructure improvements and investments necessary to begin using the town-owned facility on a regular basis. Its Board of Directors has committed to raise the additional funds needed to complete the project.
“This first catalyst of funding will help motivate the FTC Board and other prospective donors as we move forward and get this important project underway," Chairman of the board Ira Platt said. "It comes at a very opportune time and will be instrumental in the overall success of the project.”
Hwang also supported the move. “This is a great investment in Connecticut’s economy through arts and culture and for Fairfield’s local downtown shop owners and stores," said Hwang.
"FTC has said they will be able to create additional jobs with this grant due to larger scale events and a great ability to attract higher profile artists to visit Fairfield and ensure the safety of its’ patrons. The influx of visitors drawn to the area will have a positive economic impact on surrounding businesses. This grant is about helping our community nonprofits and its’ small businesses."
John Reid, executive director of the Fairfield Theatre Company and a Fairfield resident, said he was thankful for the state bond money.
“FTC is deeply grateful to see the public/private partnership expanding to include the state of Connecticut," he said. "We are committed to being diligent and effective stewards of the funds, which will ultimately bring significant value to the community, as measured both qualitatively and quantitatively. This is one of those rare initiatives where everyone benefits – the Town of Fairfield, the State of Connecticut, local businesses, and the community of thousands of Connecticut residents whose lives are enriched through art, culture, and education.”
Fairfield Theatre Company, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded in 2001 and is a center for arts in downtown Fairfield.
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