Governor Rell: UnitedHealth Group Will

Keep 2,000 Jobs in Downtown Hartford

Health Care Company to Move to CityPlace; Relocation Will

Create Up To 200 Construction Jobs Over Next 12-18 Months

            Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that UnitedHealth Group will keep its more than 2,000 employees in the nation’s insurance capital, moving its Hartford offices to CityPlace at 185 Asylum Street.

            The relocation itself is expected to create an additional 150 to 200 construction-related jobs over the next 12 to 18 months.

            “This is a triumph for Connecticut, for UnitedHealth Group and for our state’s capital city – and welcome news to employees and their families at a time of terrible economic uncertainty,” Governor Rell said. “I am doing everything in my power to keep and create jobs in our state. With the national economy making so many companies reluctant to take on risk, that includes helping businesses make capital investments and expand their operations here.

            “I am tremendously pleased that UnitedHealth Group has decided to stay in Hartford,” the Governor said. “The lease agreement signed today not only preserves more than 2,000 professional jobs, it also ensures a company with a long tradition of civic spirit will continue to play a vital role in our capital city.”

            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 has had a large presence in downtown Hartford for more than 20 years and its current lease is set to expire in 2010. After a thorough market analysis, UnitedHealth Group decided to relocate and will occupy a significant block of space at CityPlace.

            “Our decision to remain in Hartford reinforces the company’s ongoing commitment to the region as both an employer and community partner,” said Mike Matteo, CEO of the company’s national accounts business, which is based in Hartford. “Hartford has long been home to leading health care and financial services companies. We are proud to be an active contributor to our capital city’s development and look forward to relocating to CityPlace and keeping our professional workforce in downtown.”

            The Department of Economic and Community Development will provide state funding of $1.5 million towards UnitedHealth Group’s infrastructure improvements and energy efficiency projects in its new location. The agreement 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.