A Tale of Disproportionate Burden: The Special Needs of Connecticut's Poorer Cities

According to this report issued in October 2010 by the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, Connecticut's government has a moral and economic imperative to provide increased assistance to Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, and Waterbury. These large cities are regional hubs for jobs, healthcare and culture. They are also among the poorest in the nation. They face enormous challenges in social services, education, public safety, and revenues. These cities are also the hubs of major population areas. They provide everything from employment to health care to arts and culture.The health of Connecticut's central cities, their surrounding suburbs, and the state are linked. Strong cities will yield statewide benefits for years to come. As go these cities, so goes Connecticut.