Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that a $1.5 million loan to Hartford-based UnitedHealth Group – part of an agreement that retains the company’s 2,000 employees in downtown Hartford while creating as many as 200 new construction jobs – is expected to gain approval when the state Bond Commission meets October 30.

 

The loan will be used for infrastructure improvements and energy efficiency projects at UnitedHealth Group’s new location at CityPlace on 185 Asylum Street. Governor Rell announced the company’s decision to stay in Hartford in March, noting that in addition to keeping the current work force in Hartford the relocation itself was expected to create an additional 150 to 200 construction-related jobs.

 

“I am committed to keeping and growing every job possible,” Governor Rell said. “That is especially true when it comes to business sectors like IFS, where we see a potential for real expansion in the future.

 

“UnitedHealth Group has long been a presence in our capital city as both an employer and a civic benefactor – and I am very pleased that it will remain,” the Governor said. “The decision must also bring relief not only to the families of UnitedHealth Group employees but to the hundreds of merchants, restaurateurs, property owners and others who depend on the vitality of downtown Hartford.”

 

UnitedHealth Group has a total of approximately 4,300 employees and staff at various locations in Connecticut. It is a Fortune 50 employer with $81 billion in revenues in 2008.

 

The company’s agreement with the Department of Economic and Community Development requires UnitedHealth Group to maintain 2,000 employees in Hartford for at least three years. The company’s other major offices are in Rocky Hill, Trumbull and Windsor.