Mohegans give big boost to OpSail

Tuesday, March 7, 2000 | 9:30 a.m.

Thirty-eight tall ships from 11 countries have committed to the three-day New London event planned for July 12-15, Gov. John G. Rowland, U.S. Sen. Christopher Dodd and OpSail organizers also announced Monday at the Old State House.

Rowland, who wants to set aside $5.5 million in state surplus funds for OpSail, hailed the festival as an economic "home run" and a sensible investment for the state.

The governor estimated approximately $90 million in spin-off activity could result from the event, which is expected to attract 1 million visitors.

"It's fun to talk to people in the New London area," he told a news conference Monday. "There's kind of a sense of wonderment as they say to me, 'I can't believe all of this has been happening so quickly and continues to happen."'

Rowland thanked Mohegan Tribal Chairman Roland Harris and the Tribal Council for taking the lead in corporate sponsorship. The tribe owns the casino.

The tribe's donation comes at a crucial time.

After it became apparent in January that fund-raising efforts for OpSail have fallen short of a $2.1 million goal, Rowland said the budget must be trimmed from $7 million to $6.2 million.

Although the General Assembly still must approve spending $5.5 million in surplus funds, Rowland said legislative leaders support the proposal. The money will be spent on OpSail operating expenses, as well as infrastructure improvements.

David W. Gay, president of OpSail, said some of the money will help prepare piers for the tall ships, and help with pedestrian traffic and site improvements.

Gay said it was unclear how much of the $5.5 million would be used for operating expenses and how much will be spent on preparing the venues.

OpSail officials hope to repay the state for some of its investment through proceeds and additional corporate sponsorships.

The Mashantucket Pequots- owners of Foxwoods Casino, Electric Boat, Northeast Utilities and Ocean Spray are among the donors.