1051-1061 New Britain Avenue
West Hartford’s First Mixed-Use Transit-Oriented Development
Near the Elmwood Station of the CTfastrak rapid busway, plans for a 205,262 SF building located at 1051-1061 New Britian Avenue is the first to take advantage of the new transit-oriented development district, adopted by the West Hartford Town Council in June of 2022. The new development will be situated on a 2.97-acre property, previously home to a Ashley HomeStore and existing buildings constructed in the 1950s and 1960s.
The Transit-Oriented Development Initiative
This transit-oriented initiative promotes the construction of mixed-use buildings in close proximity to CTfastrack stations, fostering higher-density housing near public transit. The overarching goal is to mitigate car traffic, reduce transportation expenses, minimize pollution, and cultivate a more dynamic community for residents. The approach also integrates a pedestrian friendly design, the right mix of land-use types, compact development consistent with neighborhood character, and well-designed parking opportunities. Buildings in these areas can be taller and have fewer parking spaces than in other sections of West Hartford.
The Vision for 1051-1061 New Britain Ave
The new development will be a five-story building that includes 150 residential units. Additionally, it will encompass 17,241 SF of restaurant and retail space, distributed across three retail spaces and two restaurants. One restaurant will have a rooftop deck, and the other will feature a covered patio.
Within the 150 residential units, there will be 15 studio apartments, 84 one-bedroom units, 47 two-bedroom units, and 4 three-bedroom units. The sizes of these units vary, with an average area of 517 SF for the studios and 1,319 SF for the three-bedroom units.
The New Britain development will also include an affordable housing component and include rooftop solar arrays to encompass the clean energy incentives of the ordinance. Futhermore, 209 parking spaces are planned for the space. For residents there will be 128 underground parking spaces and 12 at ground level. The remaining 69 ground-level spaces are intended for patrons at the two restaurants and three retail spaces.
As plans develop, the vision for 1051-1061 New Britian Ave emerges as more than just a structure, but a testament to a more connected and sustainable West Hartford. With positive feedback and approval from the Design Review Advisory Committee, this project not only transforms a 2.97-acre property with a rich history but also sets a precedent for sustainable, dynamic, and community-centric living. With its blend of residential, retail, and dining spaces, this five-story building embodies the vision for a more vibrant and interconnected community.
Massachusetts
35 Pond Park Rd. Bay 16
Hingham, MA 02043
781-452-7121
Connecticut
8 Wilcox St.
Simsbury, CT 06070
860-264-1624