The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk received $3.2 million in federal aid as part of the American Rescue Plan.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal was in Norwalk today to make the announcement.

The aquarium shut down for 3 1/2 months at the start of the pandemic.

But the animals at the attraction still needed to be taken care of, which officials say put the aquarium in major debt.

Blumenthal says the funds are part of to the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, which is tied into the American Rescue Plan.

One hundred theaters, aquariums, zoos and more across the state are being awarded the grant.

How much money each business will get depends on its operating losses during the pandemic.

The Maritime Aquarium is part of the Summer at the Museum program. Connecticut kids and one accompanying adult can get in for free through Labor Day.