The UConn women can once again call themselves National Champions. The past week has been all about celebrating their victory and now the state of Connecticut is doing a little more to honor the champs. Just like in 2004, a parade will be held for the Huskies in Hartford.
"They definitely should have the parade because at a time like this, I don't think it costs that much, it brings people downtown and we got to celebrate something," said Pat Marren, who used to live in Granby.
But some are wondering what the price tag will be for the city of Hartford and the state, and if it's sensible in these tough economic times.
"We're doing everything we can, recognizing and cognizant of the fact the city and the state are going through some tough economic times to make sure this isn't an additional burden," said Michael Zaleski, Executive Director of the Hartford Business Improvement District.
One way to save money is to shorten the parade route. That cuts down on how much is spent on police officers, barricades and Department of Public Works crews.
"A precedent has been set and despite the challenging economic times, what we're trying to do is raise enough private sector funds to cover the cost of the parade," said Zaleski.
So, with less than a week to go, organizers are asking businesses to pony up the cash to support a team that has brought so much to downtown every time they have a game at the XL Center.
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"They're an economic engine, they bring people downtown, and I think small businesses, large businesses appreciate that the women's victory is a community victory," said Hartford Mayor Eddie Perez.
They'll also appreciate the crowd the parade brings downtown on Sunday. It will step off at 3 p.m. at the State Capitol. See the map of the parade route.
