Milford to borrow $20M for improvements

02/07/2007

Chris Rhatigan , Register Staff

MILFORD — The city will borrow $20 million for extensive improvements to both high schools, redevelopment of the former Milford Academy site and other items. At Monday night’s Board of Aldermen meeting, several residents asked the board to fund the dredging of Milford Harbor and to resolve flooding issues along Naugatuck Avenue. The board agreed to fund both projects.

Alderwoman Judith Toohey, R-2, spoke about the flooding on Naugatuck Avenue.

"St. Ann’s Church did everything possible to correct this on their own. It would flood the (St. Ann’s) school. It would flood the basement," she said, noting iron doors to the basement were damaged by 6 feet of water.

The board approved borrowing $880,000 to correct the drainage issues, which also affect business owners and residents.

The borrowing plan also included $6 million for the second phase of renovations to Law and Foran high schools. Foran Principal Michael Cummings and Law Principal Janet Garagliano told the board the projects are essential.

Some elements of the project, such as new surfacing for the gym floor and new bleachers at Foran, were a matter of maintaining a safe atmosphere.

"The floor itself has some safety concerns as it is original to the building. I think it’s pretty much run its course," Cummings said.

Asbestos and lead abatement for Foran were also included in the bonding package.

The board also gave the green light to the school system’s Alternative Education program, which will move to the former Milford Academy site on Gulf Street. School officials hope to have the move, which is estimated to cost $3.6 million, complete by the start of school this fall.

The borrowing plan also includes $3 million for sewer upgrades; $550,000 for updates to the Parsons Government Center; $330,000 for a new fire pumper; $225,000 for security upgrades at schools; and $720,000 for road work.

Chris Rhatigan can be reached at 876-3030 or crhatigan@nhregister.com.