Fairfield gets $3 million in state aid for mixed use development remediation
Fairfield gets $3 million in state aid for mixed use development ... Connecticut Public
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Future Mixed Use Development Project in Fairfield to Address Affordable Housing Shortage
Fairfield, like many other towns and cities across the state, is facing a shortage of affordable housing. However, state and local officials are optimistic about a future mixed-use development project that aims to include affordable units, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Location and Environmental Cleanup
The project will be constructed on the former site of the Bullard Machine Tool Company on Black Rock Turnpike. Currently vacant, the site is conveniently situated next to the Fairfield Metro North station. To prepare the property for development, it requires remediation. Recognizing this need, Governor Ned Lamont has announced a $3 million state grant to assist with the environmental cleanup. This investment will give the property a new lease on life, aligning with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Remediation Process and Affordable Housing
The remediation process is expected to last between three to six months, according to Tom Montelli, a developer involved in the project. Once completed, the development will allocate 20% of its units for affordable housing. However, specific details regarding the rental prices for these units are currently unavailable.
Comparison to Previous Housing Project
This development comes after the rejection of another housing project due to residential objections. First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick highlights the distinction of the new development at 81 Black Rock Turnpike, emphasizing that it will be constructed on a former industrial site. Kupchick explains that the area surrounding the new development is primarily composed of small single-family and duplex homes, raising safety concerns. In contrast, the industrial area where the new development will be built has been dormant for 40 years.
Addressing Affordable Housing Shortage
State Representative Sarah Keitt, who represents the 134th district including Fairfield, expresses her enthusiasm for the new development and its potential to alleviate the affordable housing shortage. Keitt states, “I’m excited that we are having more affordable housing units available here in Fairfield,” aligning with SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Affordability in Fairfield
The governor’s office confirms that 20% of the units in the development will be affordable, set at 80% of the median income. However, it is important to note that affordability in Fairfield may significantly differ from other municipalities. According to HUD’s figures, for a single person, affordable housing would equate to 80% of $54,950. In comparison, the average rent in Fairfield, as reported by RentCafe, is $2,490.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The article discusses the affordable housing shortage in Fairfield and the development project that aims to address this issue.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – The article mentions the redevelopment of a former industrial site for the mixed-use development project.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums.
- SDG 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 11.1: Proportion of urban population living in slums, informal settlements, or inadequate housing.
- No specific indicators mentioned for SDG 9.4 in the article.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums. | Proportion of urban population living in slums, informal settlements, or inadequate housing. |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes. | No specific indicators mentioned in the article. |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: ctpublic.org
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