About the Project
About the Project
The Homestead Avenue Redevelopment Plan aims to employ a mix of land use strategies to transform this key thoroughfare in the Upper Albany neighborhood. A shared community vision will be developed through community and stakeholder collaboration. This vision will guide actions to accelerate brownfield cleanup, revive vacant properties, facilitate new housing opportunities, and implement placemaking strategies that showcase Homestead Avenue and Upper Albany's distinctive character.
A Brief History
Homestead Avenue's rich history as an economic powerhouse for the Hartford region began with the 1886 expansion of the Albany Avenue trolley line. This development transformed the area into a thriving industrial district, with major manufacturers like Hartford Special Machinery Company and Smith Worthington Saddlery Company. Much of the original architecture from 1900-1920 still stands today, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial heyday. While the specialty machinery production has since departed, the historic factory buildings remain, ready to host new industries and potentially bring jobs back to Hartford. This blend of preserved history and future potential makes Homestead Avenue a unique corridor poised for revitalization.
What is a brownfield?
A brownfield is a previously developed site, often industrial or commercial, that is no longer in use and may be contaminated. These sites present both challenges and opportunities for redevelopment, as they require environmental assessment and potentially cleanup before they can be repurposed for new uses.
Project Area
The project area for the Homestead Avenue Redevelopment initiative is one of the major corridors of Hartford, CT's Upper Albany neighborhood.
Homestead Avenue runs parallel to a segment of Albany Avenue with a predominant urban commercial/mixed use character. The portion of Walnut Avenue, between its western intersection with Homestead Avenue and Chestnut Street, acts as a secondary study area and is a continuation of Homestead Avenue’s character. It provides a vital linkage between the primary study area and Downtown. Click the maps to enlarge!
