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The Nathaniel Witherell said Eversource Energy has given the town $129,156 in recognition of the energy efficiencies which improved its infrastructure and environment.
Eversource oversees a program that offers incentives to builders of commercial and industrial retrofit projects.
The project increased the number of Witherell’s private rooms to 64 from 26 and remodeled and re-decorated 87 resident rooms.
The project also enhanced Witherell’s public spaces with a 4,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art rehabilitation center, family reception areas, the modernization of three elevators, the addition of a fourth elevator, and a new emergency generator.
According to the nonprofit facility, construction costs totaled $27 million.
The Friends of Nathaniel Witherell contributed $4.6 million, secured $4.5 million from the sale of historic rehab tax credits to Eversource Energy, and assisted the state of Connecticut with providing an additional $12 million over a 20-year period.
The project also included the installation of high efficiency lighting, heating, and cooling systems, and other energy conservation devices.
Stephen Soler, co-chairman of the town's Nathaniel Witherell Building Committee, and a member of the center's board of directors, helped identify the availability of this rebate program and also led the energy audit required to secure the award.
This energy incentive is funded by all utility ratepayers in state to help them, in turn, reduce their energy usage and associated costs. It also helps reduce the number of new generating facilities that need to be built.
In accepting the check on behalf of the town, First Selectman Peter Tesei thanked Eversource Energy and all those who were involved in procuring this award.
Tesei also said that the project was an example of “leaving no stone unturned” by those helping to find funds for the town's capital projects.
For more information about Witherell, call Allen Brown, executive director, at (203) 618-4323; or Scott Neff, development director for Friends of Nathaniel Witherell, at (203) 618-4227; or visit the center’s website by clicking here.
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