Over the past weeks, the Chamber’s giant scissors have been getting a workout. With six ribbon cutting celebrations in the last two weeks of May, we are seeing the economic health of Eastern Connecticut reflected in the growth of local businesses. May’s regional news –a $93 million investment in State Pier, the Orsted-Eversourse offshore wind proposal and news of a Senate bill that would mean tens of billions for the state’s defense industry—bolsters the optimism we are seeing.
The Genius Museum at Nature’s Art Village in Oakdale welcomed people to tour two huge buildings filled with inventions that span centuries, from steam engines to a printing press. Featuring the latest in technology, The Vascular Experts celebrated the opening of their new state-of-the-art outpatient angiography suite. McDonald’s in New London hosted a grand re-opening after completely renovating the Colman Street restaurant and revolutionizing the customer experience. The Chamber welcomes new businesses Lois Rae Massage & Bodywork, Old Lyme, and will be at Ledyard Town Spirits on May 30. Thames River Heritage Park launched the water taxi and the summer season with a kickoff celebration.
CT Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development David Lehman took at two-day tour of Eastern Connecticut, meeting with Chamber Board members to discuss his vision for the state and the region. The commissioner shared his plan to review existing regulations to make it easier to do business in Connecticut.
The region’s businesses are well prepared for continued growth in Eastern Connecticut with the investments they are making now, building new businesses, new services and new relationships through these wonderful events. We look forward to unfurling yards and yards more red ribbon as we welcome this continued growth.