Blumenthal, Murphy & Himes Applaud $523,822 for New Maritime Aquarium Exhibit on History & Ecology of Long Island Sound

[HARTFORD, CT] — Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-CT) today applauded the award of a $523,822 grant to The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk to create a new, multimedia exhibit on the ecology and history of Long Island Sound.

The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA), is funded by the American Rescue Plan and will support the development of an exhibit called “The Salt Marshes of Long Island Sound.” The grant will be matched with $331,558 in local funds, a significant investment for the Aquarium. 

“The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk – with its innovative and creative programming – is a regional magnet for people of all ages,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal. “This funding enables the Aquarium to expand its vital role, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of the ecology of Long Island Sound and its shoreline.”

“Long Island Sound is one of Connecticut’s greatest treasures,” said Senator Chris Murphy. “Thanks to the American Rescue Plan, this funding for a new exhibit at the Maritime Aquarium will drive visitors to Norwalk and provide a fun opportunity for families to learn more about what makes the Sound so special.”

“The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk serves as a hub for our community, providing education and entertainment for the entire region,” said Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04). “This grant will help bolster The Maritime Aquarium’s most important roles: promoting stewardship of our local environment and conservation of the Long Island Sound and its inhabitants. I’m grateful to the Economic Development Administration for making these funds available and helping the aquarium reach an even broader audience with its important messages and programs.”   

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to their 75 exhibits and nearly 7,000 animals.

The project is funded through the EDA’s $240 million American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation program.

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