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Big Bucks
for Bushnell
State raises the bar for arts facility funding
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Business New Haven
12/29/1997
By: Marci Alborghetti
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Hartford's Bushnell Memorial touts itself as a national, if not international, draw to residents and visitors who are aficionados of the arts.
The Rowland administration apparently agrees. On December 15, the governor announced that the state would grant $10 million to the Bushnell to support the facility's expansion plans, which includes construction of a smaller, “Bushnell 2” theater.
The grant is the largest ever given to the auditorium in its 68-year history. Said Rowland: “The funding will make possible a premier performing arts complex that positions the Bushnell among the top regional centers in the Northeast. In addition to recognizing the value of the Bushnell as a leading cultural and community resource, this grant is an important economic investment in the city of Hartford and the state of Connecticut.”
According to Rowland press secretary Dean Pagani, the $10 million bond will be divided into equal disbursements for 1998 and 1999. Pagani explained that the grant came from moneys allocated in a general package by the legislature. Though that package does not usually assign specific amounts of dollars to specific projects, the Bond Commission, chaired by Rowland, meets monthly to allocate the funds.
Although $10 million is a big chunk of change, potential competitors in the state are far from rancorous. Representatives of New Haven's Shubert Performing Arts Center and Long Wharf Theater - also recent recipients of state largess - had nothing but praise for the move.
Observed Long Wharf Managing Director Michael Ross: “This kind of support from the state and the governor is a huge positive sign for the arts in Connecticut. All along this governor has made it part of his campaign and philosophy to support the arts as an important economic force. This latest grant just proves that commitment.”
Ross said Long Wharf receives annual support from the state, including tourism and Connecticut Commission on the Arts funding.
Robert Resnikoff, director of marketing and public information for the Shubert, echoed his colleague's praises. “I'm happy for the Bushnell,” said Resnikoff. “I think Governor Rowland has demonstrated an interest in the arts and a knowledge of how the arts are an economic engine for the state.”
Added Resnikoff: “In 1996 we received $1.3 million from the state through an allocation to the city of New Haven as well as an additional $700,000 for renovations.”
The $10 million will be added to $2.5 million of previously allocated federal funds to cover half of the estimated $25 million needed for the expansion. That includes construction of an addition with a new theater, restaurant, lobbies and public spaces. Bushnell officials hope to raise the remainding dollars with public and corporate donations.
The expansion project is expected to employ between 150 and 200 construction and trade workers. Once completed, the Bushnell plans to add several new full-time and up to 75 part-time service and stage employees to its staff. The new facility is expected to add another 150,000 to 200,000 visitors to the nearly half million people who already attend Bushnell events annually.
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