August 9, 2005
Governor Rell Announces Grants for 18 Projects to Protect and Preserve Long Island Sound
Sales of special license plates help provide $347,206 for programs
Governor M. Jodi Rell today presented $347,206 in grants from the Long Island Sound (LIS) Fund for 18 projects that will help preserve, protect and enhance public access to Long Island Sound.
The LIS Fund, created to support projects that benefit the Sound, is funded primarily through the sale of Preserve the Sound license plates. The sale of more than 128,000 license plates – in addition to a portion of the proceeds from an affinity credit card and direct contributions to the fund – have raised more than $4.7 million for 283 projects since 1992.
At a ceremony at the Town Dock in the Stony Creek section of Branford – where improvements will be made with LIS Fund dollars – Governor Rell said, "The LIS Fund program is a terrific example of the partnership between state government and our people – protecting a great resource and improving everyone’s quality of life. Over the years, this innovative, far-sighted program has generated millions of dollars, and it’s gratifying to see that money put to work in such lasting and practical ways.
"Long Island Sound is one of Connecticut’s most precious natural resources, and in these final few weeks of summer, thousands will be enjoying its tremendous recreational opportunities. We must do everything we can to preserve and protect it, and make certain our children and grandchildren have the opportunity to enjoy it."
Governor Rell was joined at the ceremony by local officials, state legislators, Commissioner of Environmental Protection (DEP) Gina McCarthy, Commissioner of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Ralph Carpenter and representatives of 18 groups receiving funding for Long Island Sound projects.
Commissioner McCarthy said, "The scope of programs receiving funding today is very impressive. There are educational projects, such as an eight-week pilot summer program for New Haven youngsters to participate in hands-on activities at the shore. There are projects to improve public access, such as improvements to parks, boating docks and areas where wildlife can be viewed. There are projects to protect wildlife and migratory routes of fish populations that have been declining. And there are research projects that will help us learn more about protecting wildlife, salt marshes and water quality."
Commissioner McCarthy noted that the LIS Fund has played a key role in supporting Connecticut’s coastal management program, which is now marking its 25th anniversary.
Connecticut residents can show their support for Long Island Sound by purchasing a Preserve the Sound license plate, acquiring the affinity credit card or making a direct contribution. For more information call 1-800-CT-Sound or visit www.dep.state.ct.us/olisp/licplate/licplate.htm.
List of 18 Long Island Sound Fund 2005 Grant Recipients - .pdf file
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