New London, CT IP & Technology Law Attorney News Archive

The Connecticut Port Authority has officially allocated $11.3 million to Kiewit, the construction firm responsible for completing State Pier in New London. This decision comes as part of a resolution to a dispute surrounding additional costs, which had initially risen to nearly $25 million.

Port Authority Chairman Paul Whitescarver reassured stakeholders that this latest agreement will not further inflate the overall project budget. Originally estimated at $93 million, costs have now exceeded $300 million. Local legislators, including Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding and Senator Heather Somers, have voiced concerns regarding the transparency of these financial decisions and their potential impact on taxpayers.

The increase in expenses is largely attributed to underwater challenges and necessary design modifications. The project aims to position the pier as a key support hub for offshore wind energy development. Whitescarver highlighted the long-term advantages for southeastern Connecticut, particularly regarding increased storage capacity and heightened activity at the pier.

The Stonington Borough Merchants Association is gearing up for the Seventh Annual Art Walk on September 13, promising a fantastic showcase of artistic talent. Running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this outdoor fair will turn Water Street into a lively marketplace filled with works from over 60 artists across New England, emphasizing local talent.

Sandra Alexander, the marketing lead for the Merchants Association, highlighted the significance of the event, stating, "One of the many reasons Stonington Borough is a state-designated cultural district is this event."

In addition to the diverse range of art—including pottery, photography, and sculpture—the Art Walk will feature a special exhibit by interdisciplinary artists from Guadalajara. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the historic home of James Ingram Merrill.

With its unique blend of creativity and community spirit, the Art Walk is shaping up to be a must-see event on Connecticut's artistic calendar.

The ambitious plan for one of New England's largest battery storage installations in Killingly has come to an end. Recent filings with the Connecticut Siting Council confirm that the application for the proposed 325-megawatt facility has been officially withdrawn.

Ken Baldwin, the attorney representing Windham Energy Center, stated that the decision was primarily driven by growing concerns from local officials. Key issues cited include potential risks such as fires, which have heightened community apprehensions.

The site has a tumultuous history; previous developer NTE Energy encountered significant challenges while attempting to establish a natural gas-fired power plant. That project sparked considerable protests in Hartford. Acting Town Manager Frances Conroy underscored the community's worries about noise and emissions, which have prompted additional scrutiny of the battery storage initiative.

With the proposal now off the table, any future endeavors in Killingly will necessitate new applications that will need to navigate the intricate terrain of IP, Technology, and Real Estate Law in Connecticut.