For Immediate Release: November 16, 2010
Contact: Paul Mounds 860-278-8888

LARSON PRAISES THE HARTFORD'S RECENT INVESTMENT IN ASYLUM HILL NEIGHBORHOOD, CAPITOL WEST BUILDING PLANS

Initiative Includes Funding to Purchase, Demolish, and Improve the Capitol West Building Property

Hartford, CT-Today, U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) applauded The Hartford's announcement of a $7 million investment to improve education and community support services in the Asylum Hill neighborhood.

"I applaud The Hartford's commitment to the economic and social development of our capital city and the Asylum Hill neighborhood. Their partnership with the City of Hartford to raze the Capitol West Building, by far the most visible blighted location in the city, is an act of goodwill that should be praised," said Congressman Larson. "Far too long, Capitol West has been a blemish on a city whose future is as vibrant and alive as the spirits of its residents and businesses. This private/public venture will boost economic growth in our city today, tomorrow, and into the future."

The funding will include a $2 million donation to assist the City of Hartford in the acquisition and demolition of the blighted Capitol West building, a 170,000 square-foot vacant office building located on Myrtle Street. A visible eyesore in the neighborhood and in Downtown Hartford, Capitol West is a short distance from The Hartford's Corporate Headquarters, Interstate 84 and Union Station, the city's largest transportation hub.

Liam E. McGee, President and CEO of The Hartford, joined Hartford Mayor Pedro Segarra at the West Middle School earlier today for this major announcement.

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