Connecticut House Bill HB05697

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/15
• Refer: 1/21/15

Caption

An Act Providing Funding For The Operation Of The Water Taxi At The Heritage Park In Groton.

Impact

The enactment of HB 05697 stands to impact local transportation infrastructure positively by providing residents and visitors with an alternative means of travel on the water. The funding allocated through this bill is intended to bolster the local tourism industry, potentially leading to increased visitor traffic to Heritage Park and the surrounding attractions. This increased accessibility may, in turn, result in economic benefits for local businesses that rely on tourist activity. The support for the operation of such services showcases a commitment to enhancing regional connectivity as well as environmental sustainability through the promotion of less car-centric travel alternatives.

Summary

House Bill 05697 is an act aimed at providing funding for the operation of a water taxi service in the Heritage Park area of Groton. This bill proposes to allocate a specific sum of money from the General Fund to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, which in turn will offer a grant to the city of Groton. The objective of this funding is to ensure the continuity and effective operation of the water taxi that serves not just Groton, but also the nearby New London area. Supporting alternative forms of transportation is key to promoting local tourism and enhancing the accessibility of scenic areas within these communities.

Contention

While the statement of purpose highlights the bill's benefits for local tourism and transportation, there may be varying opinions surrounding the allocation of state funds for such projects. Some stakeholders might question the prioritization of funding for a water taxi when there are numerous other pressing infrastructure needs across the state. Concerns could arise regarding the long-term viability of the water taxi service, including questions about operational costs and whether ongoing state funding will be necessary. These discussions might see a mix of support and skepticism from various members within the legislative body, as they balance local development initiatives against broader fiscal responsibilities.