Tunxis Community College to Get $1.3 Million in State Grants

Tunxis Community College, now in the second phase of a massive construction project, will receive grants from the state for upgrades and improvements, according to a press release from Farmington's Congressional Delegation. 

On March 13, the State Bond Commission approved a plan for the sale of $28 million in bonds to finance costs for much needed upgrades to the state’s 12 community technical colleges and the state college system office.

“The investment in Tunxis Community College will boost Connecticut’s ability to grow and retain jobs,” said Rep. Mike Demicco. “This commitment to education unlocks the potential of thousands of students and supports economic and job growth in Connecticut.”

Plans to invest $18 million to finance new and replacement instruction, research and laboratory equipment for 12 Community Colleges and the System Office was announced. Tunxis in Farmington will receive $1.3 million.

“An educated workforce is one of Connecticut’s strategic advantages,” Rep. Brian Becker said. “This investment in our state college system builds on that advantage.”

Funding to continue the advancement and development of IT networks and capabilities throughout the community College System and the System Office was also announced.

$10 million will be used to purchase desktop and laptop computers, servers, network switches and routers, telecommunication equipment and classroom technology equipment.

"I have been supportive of this bioscience initiative since its inception," said Sen. Terry Gerratana. "This is not just where the future of science is going in this country, this is the future of economic growth in central Connecticut. This project is a keystone to that growth."

“These are important investments the state is making in our higher education infrastructure,” said Sen. Beth Bye, who is Senate Chair of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee. “Updating laboratory and research and computer equipment at Tunxis allows students to access the kind of education that will get them jobs in the fields that more and more Connecticut employers are seeking applicants for.”

Submitted by Connecticut House Democrats.