City of New Britain
Opportunity Zones
Downtown TOD Opportunities
The plan for the downtown area seeks to build on current urban, pedestrian-friendly development with cultural and historic assets to go along with infrastructural improvements.
New construction and redevelopment of old underperforming properties in the downtown area will aim to accommodate a new wave of housing, a food hub, and entertainment venues along Main and West Main St.
Current
Potential
The plan calls for a 6,000-square-foot coffee shop, bakery, deli, or other food service establishment with indoor seating.
The vision is for the 1-acre block, currently comprised of five parcels, to be redeveloped as one unified site with approximately 22,000 square feet 1 of retail on the first floor and three to four stories of studio to two bedroom apartment units above, for a total of 100 to 135 residential units. The intention is for Amato’s Toy Store to occupy a portion of the retail space.
Current
Potential
Rehabbed mixed use building:
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The new uses include approximately 25,000 square feet of retail or commercial on the first floor and approximately 30 one to two bedroom apartment units on the second story.
Current
Potential
-Engage a property broker who specializes in restaurant properties to evaluate buildings in the restaurant row area for the best candidates for renovation. The broker should also assist in identifying potential restaurateurs to pursue.
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-Expand façade improvement assistance programs. The Downtown District currently offers a match of up to $5,000 for façade improvements. Pursue grants, private donations, and/or TIF funds to establish a TOD Core façade improvement fund that is open to eligible property owners in the Main Street and West Main Street dining and entertainment hub.
Current
Potential
The existing three-story, 43,000-square-foot office building could house approximately 33 dwelling units. The plan is to provide access to parking between the existing and planned new building to create a cohesive residential development of approximately 65 residential units.
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Four smaller three-story new construction buildings similar to existing multi family structures on Walnut Street, are shown. These could be developed in conjunction with the AT&T office building or separately. Depending on market demands, these 18 to 24 residential units could be offered as ownership units.
Current
Potential
Washington Street:
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Engage property owner in regular discussion to clarify intentions for the future development of the parcel; assist in predevelopment eff orts as feasible, including helping to identify brownfields concerns and financing sources for remediation.
