ANSONIA — The city has finally received $2.9 million to remove hazardous materials and demolish the SHW Casting Company on Main Street, following demolition that began in January.
In December, U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., secured more than $26.9 million total in funding for projects across Connecticut’s 3rd Congressional District, which she represents, as part of government bill that included money for remediation and renovation projects across the state.
“This funding will go to local infrastructure projects, foster community development, invest in childcare, build climate resiliency, and help our health care centers adequately support patient medical needs,” DeLauro said at the time. “I am incredibly thankful to all the dedicated community groups across Connecticut’s 3rd Congressional District that provided requests to make a difference for our communities.”
In 2021, the city received $1 million from the state to help demolish the Farrel Foundry, which is part of the total 60 acres that also includes SHW and Ansonia Copper and Brass. Part of the structure collapsed in 2017.
The following year, Ansonia Mayor David Cassetti said the city needed more money to complete the work and turned to DeLauro to help get the federal money for the demolition.
Though the city previously received money for the project, Economic Development Director Sheila O’Malley said in 2022 that only a small portion of the facility had been already demolished, and prep work was supposed to start July 25 of that year.
In July 2020, Cassetti said the entire facility needed to be demolished, as it was filled with rotted timber and rusted material, which was a risk to health and redevelopment.
That same month, Gov. Ned Lamont went to Ansonia and announced the state would bond $500,000 of the costs, calling it “a really important investment.”
State Rep. Kara Rochelle, D-Ansonia, said in 2020 that after the demolition, it would allow for future developments, bringing “good-paying jobs to Valley residents, expand the city’s grand list, and give the city the opportunity to potentially lower taxes or invest in additional services and amenities for residents.”
The city had also previously considered using the site for places, such as RugPad USA or a fuel cell facility.
