CPA announces Reemsnyder as Chair

At the Connecticut Port Autority Board Meeting on June 19th, Bonnie Reemsnyder was elected the new Chair of the Board.  Former chairman Scott Bates did not seek reappointment as Chair, but he will remain on the Board.  Reemsynder, Old Lyme’s First Selectwoman, is a local leader driven by her goal to develop economic growth for the state of Connecticut. 

David Kooris, Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD), was elected as Vice Chair of the CPA.  David is responsible for the state’s economic development strategy including transit-oriented development, brownfields, capital projects, waterfront, and tourism.
Reemsynder understands the goals and trajectory of the Connecticut Port Authority through her experience as Vice-Chair since CPA began operating in 2016.
“I am honored to take on this new role as the CPA prepares to enter a new, exciting phase of growth,” said Chair Bonnie Reemsnyder. “As Vice-Chair and head of the Finance Committee, I have a unique understanding of the challenges and potential that lie ahead, and I look forward to working with my Board colleagues to continue growing Connecticut’s maritime economy and creating jobs across the state.”
Reemsynder begins her role as chairwoman during a period of tremendous growth for Connecticut’s maritime industry. Under Scott Bates’ leadership, the Connecticut Port Authority developed the state’s first maritime strategy, created the Small Harbor Improvement Projects Program, and secured extensive financial investments from private sector partners that will transform State Pier into a world-class, state-of-the-art port.
In the position of Vice-Chair, Reemsynder served on CPA’s Negotiating Committee which recommended selection of Gateway New London, LLC as the new terminal operator at State Pier, as well as the partnership with Ørsted and Eversource for use of the pier as a staging area for the developing wind industry. The successful execution of such a vital project for Connecticut’s maritime industry shows Reemsynder’s ability to continue growing maritime commerce as an essential cornerstone of Connecticut’s economy.