Stratford Legislators Announce Grant for Sterling House Elevator

HARTFORD – Stratford’s state legislative delegation has announced that Stratford’s Sterling House will be receiving $1.2 million in state bond funds for a facility enhancement project at the Sterling House Community Center.  

The project will include an elevator, an inside stairwell egress, elimination of an outside fire escape and renovation of the main office and reception area.  

The item has been advanced by Governor Dannel P. Malloy and will appear on the State Bond Commission’s monthly meeting on Friday, March 28th.

Rep. Laura Hoydick (R-120), Rep. Larry Miller (R-122), Sen. Kevin Kelly (R-21), Rep. Terry Backer (D-121) and Sen. Andres Ayala, Jr. (D-23) wrote to the Governor last October requesting the funds for the project.

“We are investing in Sterling House because we want to ensure this cultural landmark is used as much in the future as it has been for the last 80 years,” said Governor Dannel P. Malloy. “Sterling House offers quality social, educational and recreational programming that has enriched the lives of people of all ages and this project will allow them to continue serving this community for generations to come.”

“This project is essential to Sterling House being able to effectively continue to carry out its mission of assistance to the Stratford community," said Rep. Hoydick.  “Physically challenged populations are currently unable to access the Resource Connection Program or the Food Pantry, and children have literally been carried the 2nd and 3rd floors for activities.  I appreciate the consideration of the Governor and the Bond Commission for advancing this important project.”

“Many important and essential activities and services are accessible only on the 2nd and 3rd floors of Sterling House,” said Rep. Miller.  “By approving the funding for this enhancement project, those who have physical limitations will now be able to access classes, workshops, support groups and other programs with greater ease, and it will ensure that Sterling House is utilized more effectively and efficiently. 

“The programming offered by Sterling House is an incredible asset to Stratford that helps our entire community, from youth to adults,” said Sen. Kelly. “These funds will provide greater access to phenomenal resources, including access for individuals with disabilities. The planned renovations will enable everyone to benefit from programming in all areas of the center, including the food pantry, located on the basement level of the building.”

“Sterling House reaches far into the daily lives of so many Stratford and surrounding area residents,” said Rep. Backer.   “When our legislative delegation combines our efforts, the successes are felt back home.   I want to thank Governor Malloy for recognizing the great work Sterling House has done over the years and for providing the funds to improve accessibility.” 

"The Sterling House provides an array of important services to people of all ages, strengthening our community and the families who live here," said Sen. Andres Ayala. "This state investment will allow for the installation of an elevator and other accessibility upgrades to the building, ensuring that the people who need access to the food pantry and other rooms on the second and third floors are able to conveniently reach them. Improved access will allow for the Sterling House to provide even better service to the people that need it. I thank Governor Malloy for his support of this critical project."

Sterling House is dedicated to serving all ages from young to senior adults, offering 35-40 different programs yearly, serving over 13,000 children, teens and adults.  For over 80 years it has offered the region affordable social, educational and recreational activities which assist those citizens in their positive and healthy development.

The Town of Stratford has offered full support to the renovation project, and appropriated funds used to complete a feasibility study and architectural documents to make the project possible.  

The facility renovations will also make Sterling House more customer-friendly, and better equipped to accommodate a large number of people that go to the agency on a daily basis to register for programs, seek information or receive referrals.

For more information about Sterling House and the services they offer visit http://sterlinghousecc.org.