Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the state will grant Derby $800,000 for the development of the Derby Commerce Park.

 

Derby plans to build a road and install the necessary infrastructure — water, sewer, storm and sanitary, gas, telephone and cable — that will provide access to and support the proposed 27-acre commerce park.

 

“We want to do everything we can to help create jobs in Derby,” Governor Rell said.  “The development of the Commerce Park will bring in new businesses to the Naugatuck Valley.  This project can potentially create 150 new jobs and bring in $22.5 million in private investments.

 

“This investment boils down to three simple words: jobs, jobs, jobs.  We envision the Commerce Park as a magnet for research and manufacturing companies.  This project is a top priority for the city and the region, and it is one the state is very proud to lend financial assistance to make sure it happens. It will open additional commercial property adjacent to the city’s central business district and promote the Downtown Revitalization Program by providing businesses with relocation space.”

 

Governor Rell said that Derby Mayor Anthony Staffieri and local legislators have been strong advocates for this project.

 

“With help from Governor Rell, Derby is continuing to move forward on this wise investment that will pay major dividends,” Mayor Staffieri said.  “This is great news for Derby’s taxpayers, and I thank the Governor and the State of Connecticut for their continued commitment to boost economic development right here in Derby.”

 

The state grant, which will be offered through the Department of Economic and Community Development, will be combined with $200,000 in municipal funds to match a $1 million U.S. Department of Commerce grant through the Economic Development Administration.