Governor Rell Announces Major Step Forward

for South Windsor Studio

Governor M. Jodi Rell today visited South Windsor to officially transfer former state and town-owned property to the developer of a proposed film studio in town.  The state and town land totals approximately 20 acres and is adjacent to a 40-acre parcel of private land near the Interstate 291 and Route 5 junction. The properties together will be home to a high-tech movie studio and production facility.

“This land transfer puts South Windsor on the path to job creation,” said Governor Rell.  “Since I signed the bill establishing state film tax credits in 2006, major companies like Connecticut Studios, Blue Sky and NBC Universal have been investing millions of dollars and creating high-quality jobs in our state.  This land transfer is key to helping South Windsor unlock economic opportunities in this emerging industry.”

Connecticut Studios proposal includes a prescreening/visitor center, eight sound stages totaling 150,000 square feet, four office buildings totaling 75,000 square feet, and 100,000 square feet for storage. The company’s investment of approximately $65 million is expected to generate more than 500 construction jobs and 114 permanent jobs. In addition, based upon the level of film production, up to 1,500 studio production jobs on an annual basis could be created.

“This industry will have tremendously positive economic impacts for the town of South Windsor and for the entire state and all the residents we serve,” South Windsor Mayor Cary Prague said. “I would like to thank Governor Rell for her support as well as our state representatives for all their help on this important project.”

“Connecticut Studios and the associated mixed use development is a well planned and responsible project that is consistent with the town's goals for real estate and economic development,” said Hal Katersky, CEO, Connecticut Studios, LLC. “We are confident that the investment we are making in this land will generate significant, long-term benefits for South Windsor and the state of Connecticut.”