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State Funding for Ruby Long Park and Jubilee House

Andy Hart

December 09, 2010

The State Bonding Commission is expected to approve funding for two neighborhood projects in Hartford at its meeting this Friday, December 10.

State Senator Eric Coleman said the commission should approve a $400,000 grant for the construction of a new, accessible playground at the Ruby Long Park in Hartford’s Blue Hills neighborhood. Ruby Long Park is located off Granby Street, across from the Bowles Park housing project.

“A well maintained park is a fun, attractive place for families and neighborhood residents to enjoy their free time and interact with others in the community,” said Senator Coleman. “The accessibility of this new playground will open up the park to a whole new group of Blue Hills residents. It will be a great addition to the neighborhood.”

The grant will be awarded to the Blue Hills Civic Association (BHCA), a non-profit group founded in 1962, who will oversee installation of the playground.

“This new playground is something that will really benefit the entire community of Blue Hills,” said Lee Hunt, Executive Director of BHCA. “This grant is an opportunity for us to build a park that everyone in the neighborhood can take advantage of. The playground will facilitate recreational activities that can help in the positive development of all the youth in our neighborhood.”

In addition, Governor M. Jodi Rell said that the commission is expected to approve $150,000 state grant for the Jubilee House of Hartford, a non-profit center for adult education and refugee assistance on Clifford Street in the city’s Barry Square neighborhood.

The Governor said the funds will be used to replace the roof on the Clifford Street building, which is operated by the Sisters of St. Joseph. “The Jubilee House is a vital part of the community and makes a difference in the lives of adults through education and life skills necessary to lead productive lives,” Governor Rell said. “It has done much with modest resources and I am pleased we can help the Sisters of St. Joseph proceed with much-needed repairs.”