Governor M. Jodi Rell announced today that $3,250,000 for housing projects and programs in Ridgefield is expected to gain approval when the state Bond Commission meets Friday, February, 29.

The funds will be used to provide a loan to the Ridgefield Housing Authority Limited Partnership to assist in the renovation of 120 existing family and elderly housing units and assist in the addition of 12 new elderly housing units at the Ballard Green and Prospect Ridge developments in Ridgefield.

“Providing affordable housing for our elderly and disabled is something we can all agree on and continue to provide,” said Governor Rell. “These funds will make a real difference in the lives of many Ridgefield residents. Our elderly and disabled citizens deserve housing that is affordable and maintained to the highest standards. These renovations and additions are another great step forward for Ridgefield.”

Governor Rell thanked Representative John Frey, who represents Ridgefield, for his hard work during the past decade to bring this project to fruition.

“This is excellent news for the citizens of Ridgefield,” said State Representative John Frey. “Our residents, particularly our senior citizens, deserve an affordable place to call home. Building additional units and renovating the existing ones will allow these developments to last for many years to come and provide homes to more people. The rehabilitation of the existing units is long overdue — the work will include new heating and cooling, roofs, kitchens, baths, insulation and site work. Best of all, the nearly $14 million project will be done entirely with state funds and tax credits — no impact on local taxes or residents.”

The Ridgefield Housing Authority was created in 1974 to provide affordable and safe housing for senior citizens. Developments include Ballard Green which opened in 1979 and Prospect Ridge. There are 120 housing units between the two developments and they serve senior, disabled citizens and families.

Ballard Green is located on Gilbert Street in Ridgefield and Prospect Ridge is located on Prospect Ridge in Ridgefield.