Overview
The revitalization of many of Connecticut’s towns is a primary mission for the Office of Community Development as the office works to bring new investment to the state’s downtowns. Both millennials and empty nesters demonstrate a strong preference for the walkable, mixed-use communities that our downtowns present. Innovative businesses looking to capitalize on the networking and interactions that are fostered by density and quality public spaces are looking for amenity-rich downtown office environments.
Access Project Support
The Office of Community Development works with communities large and small to ensure that the infrastructure and public realm are in place to support downtown revitalization. Services in place to help realize those goals include:
CERC Site Finder
Search Connecticut’s most comprehensive online database of available commercial properties.
Strategic Planning Assistance
Find support and services to assist with community development projects and planning.
Project Compliance
Find bidding, contracting, and construction guidelines for professional services and project planning.
Help Working with Other Agencies
Access a list of resources in state, regional and federal offices across Connecticut.
Permit Ombudsman
Find assistance, financing applications and permit information for projects within the Office of Community Development.
Explore Funding Opportunities
Capital infrastructure funding and transit-oriented planning grants are just part of the new investment in our urban and suburban centers. Funding resources include:
Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP)
Learn about STEAP fund usage, eligibility, find an application and view success stories.
Brownfields Redevelopment
Information on funding and links to resources from The Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD).
Transit-Oriented Development Fund
Competitive grant programs that provide transit project funding for municipalities and regional councils of government.
Review Incentives/Liability Relief
Programs to reduce tax liability and incentives based on location siting are part of the effort to streamline downtown revitalization efforts large and small. Opportunities include:
Liability Relief Programs
Access relief programs for abandoned Brownfield cleanup, remediation and revitalization.
Enterprise Zones
Find incentives for eligible business to relocate and/or expand projects within a designated district
Brownfield Tax Increment Financing
Learn more about this program offering financing to fund Brownfield redevelopment projects through future property taxes.
Success Stories
The Office of Community Development has case studies showing a variety of downtown revitalization success stories. See how funding, support programs and other services have already achieved success in revitalizing projects of all sizes and requirements.