HARTFORD – Today, the Connecticut State Bond Commission has approved $20,000 in funding to support the Newtown Forest Association in its vital conservation efforts. This funding allocation comes as a result of an application request made to the bond commission by State Senator Tony Hwang and supported by Newtown State Representatives Mitch Bolinsky and Marty Foncello.
The Newtown Forest Association has been at the forefront of preserving the natural beauty and ecological diversity of Newtown, CT, for over a century. Dedicated to the conservation of forests, agricultural lands, meadows, watersheds, and other open spaces, the NFA works tirelessly to ensure the well-being of both the natural environment and the human residents of the town.
The $20,000 in bond funding will be instrumental in advancing various conservation projects undertaken by the NFA, including land acquisition, habitat restoration, and public education initiatives. By investing in these efforts, the State of Connecticut reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of local communities.
Senator Tony Hwang expressed his enthusiasm for the funding approval, stating, “The Newtown Forest Association for over 100 years has played a crucial role in safeguarding our natural forest and open space habitats and enhancing the quality of life in our community by sustaining, preserving and on occasions protection against aggressive over-development. This bond allocation for infrastructure roadway improvement will allow many within our community to explore and experience the majestic beauty of NFA’s tireless effort for everyone in our community. I want to especially thank the NFA leadership, board members and countless supporters and volunteers. I am proud to advocate and obtain this funding on behalf of the NFA & Newtown community and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have.”
NFA Board President Bart Smith shared the following remarks, “We have seen, especially over the last few years, how important open space is to so many of us. The NFA is proud that the State of Connecticut is willing and able to devote funds to organizations like us, to help maintain these beautiful spaces for public enjoyment. Thank you to Governor Lamont, the State of Connecticut, and especially Senator Tony Hwang for his enthusiastic and unwavering support of our mission”
“The funds from this grant will allow us to improve and maintain the steep quarter-mile driveway to the top of Holcombe Hill, improving the accessibility of the incredible beauty of this place to a broader population. Fostering an appreciation for nature is paramount for the future, and these funds will help us accomplish that. I’d like to thank the Newtown delegation of Senator Hwang, Representative Bolinsky, and Representative Foncello for securing this funding for our organization.” said NFA Executive Director Trent McCann.
“I’m appreciative of the decision from Governor Lamont and commission members to invest in this project,” said Rep. Martin Foncello.
Rep. Mitch Bolinsky said, “The Holcombe Preserve also serves as NFA’s headquarters and, at Newtown’s highest elevation, the preserve is a focal point for many great community activities, passive recreation, and awesome views of our bucolic town. Anyone not familiar with Newtown Forest Association should check them out. Ask about their 100-year history as Connecticut’s longest-operating private land trust, and the work they do as stewards of some of the most beautiful, unspoiled places in Newtown. From their very first preserve, the Town Forest, to the 1,400-acres they lovingly maintain as open space, in perpetuity, across Newtown, they’re an amazing, welcoming bunch of volunteers.”
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