Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00345

Introduced
1/22/15  
Refer
1/22/15  
Refer
1/22/15  
Report Pass
2/27/15  

Caption

An Act Concerning The Water Taxi At The Heritage Park In The Towns Of Groton And New London.

Impact

The passage of SB00345 could have significant implications for state transportation laws and local economic development. By allocating funding for a water taxi, the bill recognizes the importance of improving connectivity in the area and fostering tourism and local commerce at the Heritage Park. It encourages utilizing natural waterways for transportation, which could lead to a ripple effect of further investments in related infrastructure. This is an important step in advancing sustainable transport solutions in the state, potentially setting a precedent for similar initiatives in other regions.

Summary

SB00345, known as 'An Act Concerning The Water Taxi At The Heritage Park In The Towns Of Groton And New London', aims to fund the establishment of a water taxi service connecting Groton and New London along the Thames River. The bill allocates a sum of one hundred thousand dollars from the General Fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2016, specifically for this purpose. This initiative represents a move towards enhancing public transportation options in the region and aims to promote travel and accessibility between these two towns by utilizing the river as a transit route.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be generally positive among local stakeholders, particularly those who advocate for sustainable transport options and economic enhancement in Groton and New London. Proponents highlight the benefits of promoting local tourism and providing new ways for residents and visitors to explore the scenic waterfront. However, there may be some contention from budget-concerned legislators who may question the allocation of funds during a time when financial resources are limited, emphasizing the need for a critical evaluation of the long-term sustainability of such projects.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from those who prioritize immediate budgetary needs over new spending proposals like SB00345. Concerns could be voiced regarding whether the funding for the water taxi is the best use of state resources, especially if there are pressing social or infrastructural needs in other areas. Additionally, there may be public debates regarding the environmental impact of such initiatives on the Thames River ecology and how it fits into broader waterway management efforts within state directives.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05432

An Act Establishing A Working Group To Develop An Economic Development And Tourism Plan For The Greater Mystic Area Of The Towns Of Groton, New London And Stonington.

CT SB00373

An Act Concerning Parks Included In The Passport To The Parks Program.

CT SB00159

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Feasibility Of Developing A Multimodal Transportation Center In The Towns Of Stonington And Groton.

CT HB05214

An Act Concerning Batterson Park.

CT HB05355

An Act Concerning The Water Resources Of The Upper Farmington River Valley.

CT HB05523

An Act Concerning Allocations Of Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds And Provisions Related To General Government, Human Services, Education And The Biennium Ending June 30, 2025.

CT HB05216

An Act Concerning The Safety Capacity At Gardner Lake State Park.

CT HB05350

An Act Concerning The Enforcement Of Boating Laws On Bodies Of Water Near The Rhode Island, Massachusetts And New York Borders.

CT SB00294

An Act Concerning The Taking Of Municipal Park Lands By Municipalities.

CT HB05015

An Act Authorizing Bonds Of The State For Expanding A Certain Parking Garage In New London.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.