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Norwalk Redevelopment News 🌳 October 2025

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 17:09:42 GMT

News & Updates

TOPICS: From the Desk of the Executive Director • Greenest City in Connecticut • For Vendors: Webster Lot RFP • South Norwalk Lexington & South Main Community Development Plan • Brownfield Clean-up Project: South Norwalk Train Station • Pinnacle Streetscapes • Columbus Court • South Norwalk Improvement Program • Historic Façade Improvement Program

From the Desk of the Executive Director

Hello Residents and Business Owners,

We would like to take a moment to update you on several projects currently underway at the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency. Before we do, I want to express our sincere appreciation to Mayor Rilling for his leadership and partnership throughout his tenure. His vision helped refine the Agency’s priorities and strengthen our focus, enabling us to better serve Norwalk’s residents and business community. We thank Mayor Rilling for his many contributions and wish him continued success in the future.

In August, the Agency proudly accepted the Phoenix Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at the National Brownfields 2025 conference, recognizing the transformative Soundview Landing and Ryan Park redevelopment. In partnership with the Norwalk Housing Authority, Trinity Financial, and Weston and Sampson, the project reimagined one of South Norwalk’s most historically challenged sites into a model of resilience and community vitality. The project reimagined Washington Village with Soundview Landing’s 273 mixed-income, energy-efficient homes, preserved all 136 original affordable units, and added 24 fully accessible units. Meanwhile, Ryan Park was raised above the floodplain and redesigned with new playgrounds, sports courts, solar lighting, and green spaces, ensuring residents have a safe and vibrant place to gather. Together, these efforts exemplify how thoughtful redevelopment can bring new life to historically contaminated brownfield sites to honor history, address environmental risks, and create lasting opportunity for the South Norwalk community.

Further in this newsletter, we’re proud to share several initiatives that highlight how planning, investment, and collaboration are shaping the future of our community. You’ll find updates on:

South Norwalk Lexington and South Main Community Development Plan : The plan, a comprehensive initiative focused on housing, safety, and economic vitality, was recently released and can be found on the Agency’s website.
Current projects : A multi-phase environmental remediation effort at the South Norwalk Train Station is paving the way for new housing, and we are actively undergrounding utilities and making streetscape improvements around Orchard Street, West Ave, Butler Street, and Quincy Street.
Benefits from grant funding: Our Community Challenge Grant will support improvements made at the South Norwalk Train Station and has already provided assistance for improvements made at Columbus Court and nearby residential properties.

These efforts reflect our commitment to creating vibrant neighborhoods, fostering equitable economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for everyone who calls Norwalk home and/or a place to work. We look forward to continuing to work together with you to build an even stronger community.

Brian Bidolli
Executive Director

Executive Director’s Update

In 2024, the City of Norwalk and Redevelopment Agency released a draft of the City of Norwalk’s first Sustainability and Resilience Plan (SRP). The SRP serves as a roadmap that builds on the City’s sustainability and climate resilience efforts while placing Norwalk on a fast track to becoming the greenest city in Connecticut. The city followed a recommendation in the SRP and hired a new Director of Sustainability who is heading the Office of Sustainability and Resilience. To learn more, visit Norwalk's Office of Sustainability and Resilience page .

For Vendors: Webster Lot RFP

The Redevelopment Agency is currently soliciting Requests for Proposals (RFP) from qualified development companies and urban infrastructure and real estate investors for the redevelopment of 55 Martin Luther King Jr Drive (Webster St Parking Lot). RFPs are due soon .

View the full Webster Lot RFP on our For Vendors page.

South Norwalk Lexington & South Main Community Development Plan

The Redevelopment Agency recently completed and released for the City of Norwalk the South Norwalk Lexington and South Main Community Development Plan, a comprehensive initiative focused on housing, safety, and economic vitality. As development continues in the SoNo district, surrounding neighborhoods—particularly the community south of the train station—face mounting development pressures. The plan outlines policies to balance growth, improve quality of life, preserve neighborhood character, and reduce the risks of gentrification and displacement so that adjacent working-class neighbors can share in Norwalk’s growth.

Developed in partnership with expert planning and economic consultants, the plan reflects priorities voiced by residents during extensive community outreach sessions .

Drawing from best practices and real-world case studies, it highlights strategies to expand affordable housing, increase homeownership opportunities, expand connectivity, and maintain neighborhood identity.

These recommendations were organized into an implementation matrix that provides a clear roadmap for actions, including: the use of environmental sensors to improve air quality; code enforcement to address blight; essential transit investments; small business support; and partnerships to improve access to healthy foods and community resources.

Looking ahead, the plan envisions a neighborhood with safer streets, sustainably improved infrastructure, and enhanced public spaces to support long-term residents. Together, these steps lay the groundwork for a South Norwalk that grows equitably, honors its history, and creates opportunities for all.

Brownfield Clean-up Project:

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) at the South Norwalk Train Station

In August 2025, the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency (RDA) concluded a multi-phase environmental remediation effort on a portion of the commuter parking lot in the South Norwalk Train Station located at 30 Monroe Street. Like many properties with an industrial heritage in South Norwalk, this site was designated as a brownfield. Norwalk Redevelopment Agency’s investigation of the property identified the presence of heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and other contaminants in the soil beneath the parking lot. If no action had been taken, this site would have remained an underutilized brownfield in the heart of South Norwalk.

With the support of environmental remediation grants from the Environmental Protection Agency and the State of Connecticut’s Department of Economic & Community Development, the RDA was able to remove significant contaminated soil from the site. This project has reduced the potential harm posed by this brownfield to the South Norwalk community, which will soon include the new residents of a 200-unit mixed-income apartment building currently under construction on the site.

Later in the fall, additional environmental investigating and planning at the section of the property near Henry and Mulvoy Streets will be conducted.

To stay informed about Transit-Oriented Development at the South Norwalk Train Station:

Visit the RDA page on the City’s website.

South Norwalk Improvement Program Highlights

To date, the South Norwalk Improvement Program (SNIP) has provided assistance to the owners of 18 properties for a total of 36 residential units in South Norwalk. Roofs, siding, and windows on units designated for low- to moderate- income earning residents were replaced along with other various repairs that will extend the life of the Norwalk properties and beautify the area.

One property owner told us, “I was very pleased to have learned about the program. It allowed me to rehab the siding and roof to match the investments I made to the inside of the units to provide clean and updated affordable units.”

The source of the funding, $750,000, for this third round of property improvements that targeted the MLK Corridor is the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.

To stay informed about the South Norwalk Improvement Program:

The application period is currently closed but interested owners can be added to our information list to receive notification should additional funding become available. Email your name(s), address, phone number and email address to sivan@norwalkct.gov

Columbus Court + Community Challenge Grant

The City is investing $6 million of Community Challenge Grant funds to make transit-oriented development improvements to the South Norwalk Train Station area. These funds support utility undergrounding and streetscape upgrades that will beautify the neighborhood, and the addition of sidewalks and modifications to the roadway that will improve safety and traffic flow to offset any impacts of increased population density in the area.

Through the grant, direct assistance was provided to preserve and improve existing affordable housing at Columbus Court, and four nearby residential properties that received roof and siding replacements and driveway repairs. Together, these projects help create a more balanced and attractive residential environment around the station. Utility undergrounding work is already underway, with overhead wire removal nearly complete. Additional streetscape and roadway improvements are scheduled to begin in spring 2026.

Pinnacle Streetscapes and OPM

The Redevelopment Agency is utilizing $3 million of Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Urban Act funding and an additional $2 million of funding from the Office of Policy and Management to deliver a series of utility undergrounding and streetscape improvements around Orchard Street, West Ave, Butler Street, and Quincy Street. The undergrounding of overhead utilities provides a significant visual improvement to the area, while the streetscape enhancements were designed to ensure nearby residential neighborhoods benefited alongside new development.

Streetscape improvements include new sidewalks and crosswalks, street trees, and other various improvements targeting pedestrian safety and walkability. Planned utility undergrounding work has been completed, with streetscape improvements and another section of utility undergrounding on Orchard Street to commence in 2026.

Historic Façade Improvement Program Highlights

Norwalk’s historic homes are getting a fresh look! Through the City’s Historic Façade Improvement Program, seven properties recently received upgrades that included window and roof replacements as well as siding and façade repairs; preserving their charm while strengthening neighborhood character.

When funding is available, the Historic Façade Improvement Program provides match grants to homeowners of eligible properties that contribute to Norwalk’s historic resources. The program helps offset the cost of critical exterior repairs—such as window restoration, roof replacement, and siding work—while ensuring all work follows historic preservation guidelines to protect the historic integrity of the building.

To qualify, a property owner must demonstrate that their property has a historic designation or that the property is located in an established historic district.

To stay informed about the Historic Façade Improvement Program:

While the application period is currently closed, interested property owners can join our mailing list to receive notification when funding becomes available again by emailing their name, address, phone number, and email address to sivan@norwalkct.gov .

Additional funding opportunities:

Owners of historic resources may also want to explore additional funding opportunities offered by the State Historic Preservation Office, available here .

Norwalk Redevelopment News 🌳 November 2024

KOleary@norwalkct.org (Katie O'Leary) — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 17:38:07 GMT

News & Updates

TOPICS: SoNo Train Station Area • Residential Improvement Projects • Pinnacle Infrastructure and Streetscapes • MLK Corridor Equitable Mobility Enhancement • South Norwalk Lexington and South Main Community Development Plan • CDBG Con Plan • Current Community Engagement

From the Desk of the Executive Director

Hello Residents and Business Owners,

Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter, where we’ll keep you informed about the exciting progress being made on a number of important issues and projects the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency has been working on. As we continue to work to revitalize our growing city, we remain committed to creating vibrant neighborhoods, fostering equitable economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for everyone who calls Norwalk home.

The Agency’s activities are guided by a five-year Strategic Plan , which lays out a vision for the future. The plan seeks to identify and prioritize the key objectives, projects, schedules, financing and partnerships required to create a pathway forward that aligns with goals identified by the Agency and the City of Norwalk. We are currently looking at the next five years and updating our Strategic Plan. It has been and remains an exciting process. We are looking forward to releasing our refreshed Strategic Plan early next year!

This year, the Agency conducted a series of surveys to assess ways to improve local sustainability . The first two surveys yielded valuable insight into residents’ and business owners’ thoughts on the housing needs in Norwalk and stormwater management. We will soon open up our third and final survey, which will focus on business improvement districts. Please considering taking the short survey and encourage others to do the same.

In this issue, you'll find updates on:

Current projects: Learn about the progress being made on development activities around the South Norwalk Train Station, and West Avenue.
MLK Corridor Equitable Mobility Enhancement Project . This project, funded with a $14 million federal RAISE grant, will reinvent and enhance mobility in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive corridor.
South Norwalk Community Development Plan : This planning initiative will focus on the development of policies and strategies to improve residents’ quality of life, help identify economic opportunities and address concerns such as affordable housing, transportation, and connectivity.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Consolidated Plan : The CDBG Consolidated Plan is currently being drafted and will guide the use of CDBG funds received by the City of Norwalk.

We look forward to continuing to work together to build a stronger, more equitable and sustainable Norwalk for generations to come.

Brian Bidolli
Executive Director

SoNo Train Station Area Improvements

There are multiple on-going and planned improvement projects happening in the area surrounding the South Norwalk train station. The Redevelopment Agency and City of Norwalk received $6 million in state funding through the Community Investment Fund and the Community Challenge Grant Program for improvements that include:

Traffic safety and pedestrian enhancements
Multimodal transportation accommodations
Stormwater management
Street beautification
Upgraded utility service

At this time, the projects are in various stages of the development process. Following a complete street design to make the streets safer and more visually appealing, the initial focus has been on infrastructure improvements and utility undergrounding on Chestnut Street, Henry Street, Mulvoy Street and Franklin Street and will be followed by streetscape and roadway enhancements.

We are also currently conducting a $1.3 million Brownfield cleanup at the SoNo Train Station, funded by a grant from the State of Connecticut and the EPA. The remediation is expected to be completed by the end of this year, paving the way for the construction of 200 new mixed-income housing units at 15-17 Chestnut Street. For updates on all of these projects, please visit the SoNo Train Area Improvements page on our website for more information.

Residential Improvement Projects

The Norwalk Redevelopment Agency is actively working with community stakeholders, municipal staff and a consulting team of experts to develop a Community Development Plan for South Norwalk, centered on the Lexington Avenue and South Main Street area. In response to concerns about the rising cost of living and economic inclusion among many long-time residents of the neighborhood, this planning initiative will focus on the development of policies and strategies to improve resident quality of life throughout the planning area and throughout the City.

The team developing the South Norwalk Community Development Plan will analyze existing conditions in South Norwalk, assess social vulnerability, identify infrastructure needs, examine future conditions and develop recommendations for implementation and strategies for performance monitoring during plan implementation. The plan aims to create a clear roadmap for equity, focusing on the economic, aesthetic, social and environmental impacts of development. A key objective is to identify economic opportunities and ways to improve quality of life while addressing concerns such as affordable housing, transportation, and connectivity. This planning effort seeks to engage a wide range of stakeholders while building on South Norwalk's history, diversity and cultural richness.

For the plan to be effective and relevant, we will look to residents and community leaders for their insight, experience and ideas. During the planning process, we will organize various community engagement initiatives which will be publicized in various forms of media. If you have comments you would like to share or suggestions for reaching South Norwalk residents, please visit our project page on our website .

To stay informed about Residential Improvement Programs:

While both programs are not currently accepting applications, please stay informed by visiting the SNIP webpage to learn when the next round of applications will open.

Pinnacle Infrastructure and Streetscapes

In order to deliver equitable improvements surrounding the new development at 467 West Avenue, funding has been secured through the Urban Act Grant Program and the Office of Policy and Management.

The project includes the removal of overhead wires to enhance the street’s visual appeal and sidewalk improvements throughout the adjacent area to deliver a complete and consistent street design for both residents and business owners. The installation of crosswalks and other traffic improvements will further make the area more walkable and safer for pedestrians.

Press Conference on November 4, 2024

MLK Corridor Equitable Mobility Enhancement Project

On November 4th, the City announced it has been awarded a $14 million federal RAISE grant to fund the MLK Corridor Equitable Mobility Enhancement Project. These grant funds will pave the way for many improvements along approximately two miles of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Drive and to six additional roadways in the nearly 33-acre area surrounding the South Norwalk Train Station.

“We're grateful for all the support we received to secure a $14 million RAISE grant which will have a huge impact on improving safety, sustainability and social equity in the MLK Drive Corridor.”

“Thank you to our entire federal and state delegation, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and Connecticut Department of Transportation for this transformative investment.”

― Brian Bidolli, RDA Executive Director

The MLK Corridor project will include connectivity enhancements to improve all modes of transit within the area. Some of the improvements include: bicycle, pedestrian, and transit accommodations; wayfinding signage; landscaping; drainage; and digital transportation messaging signage with real-time transit information.

If you can't see the video, above, click here to see the video on Facebook.

To stay informed about the MLK Corridor Equitable Mobility Enhancement Project:

To learn more about the proposed project plans and offer us your valuable feedback, be on the lookout for public meetings likely in early 2025 and visit the MLK Corridor Equitable Mobility webpage. Dates and times of community meetings will be listed on the Redevelopment Agency calendar .

Update on the South Norwalk Lexington and South Main Community Development Plan

About the Plan

The South Norwalk Lexington and South Main Community Development Plan, launched earlier this year, is tasked with analyzing existing conditions, assessing infrastructure needs, anticipating future conditions, developing public policy recommendations, and setting up a way to monitor achievements over time as policies and projects are implemented in South Norwalk. The project seeks to address issues and concerns affecting overall quality of life in the neighborhood, and balance the impacts of development with resident needs.

Community Meeting Next Week

If you would like to get involved in the planning process, please consider attending the community meeting on November 18th or visiting the Plan’s project page on the Redevelopment Agency website to submit your comments.

November 18, 2024

6:00 - 7:30

In person at the South Norwalk Library, 10 Washington Street, Norwalk

Or, attend Online.

CDBG Con Plan

We are currently working with consultants to draft the City of Norwalk’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan. To develop the Consolidated Plan, the City conducts a needs assessment and market analysis using data and community consultation. The information collected helps to inform the identification of priority needs, which are then used to develop goals for the five-year plan. These goals will guide the use of funds through 2029 as the City develops its Annual Action Plans and makes decisions for how funds will be used in each new year of CDBG funding. On October 21st, we hosted discussions on specific community development topics and a general discussion on the overall needs that may benefit from CDBG funding. The public was invited to attend and all the meetings were held as hybrid meetings at the Norwalk Housing Authority’s EnVision Center.

If you would like to share your thoughts on what the greatest needs in Norwalk are or to request more information, email Stephen Ivan at Sivan@norwalkct.gov .

Current & Upcoming Community Engagement

South Norwalk Lexington and South Main Community Development Plan

Community Meeting

November 18, 2024 at 6PM

More Info & Registration >>

Nonprofit Capacity Building Workshop: Strategizing and Executing Effectively

November 19, 2024 at 12:30PM

More Info & Registration >>

Business Improvement Districts Survey

Opening up soon

The survey will be available in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole.

Norwalk Redevelopment News 🌳 June 2024

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 17:14:56 GMT

News & Updates

TOPICS: Sustainable & Resilient Norwalk • SoNo Community Development Plan • Housing Initiatives • Current & Upcoming Community Engagement

From the Desk of the Executive Director

Greetings!

The Norwalk Redevelopment Agency strives to promote sustainable and inclusive economic development in Norwalk. Taking a collaborative approach with the community we serve, listening to stakeholders, and exchanging ideas and information is perhaps the single-most effective and important step the Agency takes in all our endeavors. In the interest of transparency and keeping you informed, I am excited to share what has been happening at the Redevelopment Agency.

Affordable Housing & Job Opportunities

Top priorities identified in the housing survey conducted in 2024

The Agency has been working on two different surveys to gauge the desires and needs of Norwalk residents. The first survey sought to gauge residents’ attitudes towards housing and housing development within Norwalk. The top priorities for a majority of the 580 respondents was the availability of affordable housing opportunities and job opportunities. A majority also expressed that traffic congestion and climate sustainability should be factored into any housing development efforts. This information is invaluable to decision makers so that informed decisions can be made moving forward, and we greatly appreciate your participation. A second survey that examines an approach to managing stormwater is currently being circulated. I encourage everyone to submit your responses, as we review and discuss them all with a sincere focus on improving our planning efforts with your feedback.

An article in this newsletter highlights the City’s progress in climate and sustainability efforts to address the impacts of climate change. Working with members of the Common Council, community stakeholders and a number of climate experts, we have collectively developed an actionable Sustainability and Resilience Plan (SRP) which provides a roadmap to a more a resilient and sustainable Norwalk, protecting and preserving the community’s natural beauty for generations to come.

Sustainability & Resilience Priorities

Also in this newsletter, you will read that we are working with local leaders and residents to develop a plan focused on balancing growth, preserving neighborhood character, improving traffic flow, and addressing concerns about displacement and gentrification, focusing on the Lexington Avenue and South Main Street area. During the kickoff meeting for this project, the open dialogue produced many excellent thoughts and ideas on how to develop policies that balance growth and equity within existing neighborhoods and improve local quality of life in several areas. It is only through this input from the community that we can develop plans that will achieve our goals of inclusivity and sustainability.

We will continue to host community engagement events to give the public opportunities to be engaged with the growth and progress in their neighborhood. I encourage you to continue to participate in our collaborative process as we move forward together to ensure Norwalk remains a sustainable, equitable community for all.

Brian Bidolli
Executive Director

Sustainable & Resilient Norwalk

Earlier in the year, the Redevelopment Agency and the City of Norwalk released a Sustainability and Resilience Plan (SRP) which will serve as a roadmap to long-term climate-change resiliency in Norwalk. The SRP identifies critical actions that will boost the City’s climate change mitigation efforts, gaps in the City’s current policies and management, and outlines a pipeline of actionable projects that address issues we are facing in our community.

Knowing that costly and hazardous environmental challenges are increasingly threatening residents’ quality of life, the City engaged in a comprehensive planning process that included multiple public outreach sessions and meetings with key stakeholders and staff. Community members voiced concerns about flooding, lack of green space, and air quality. Within the SRP are actionable steps not only aimed at enhancing climate control and strengthening long-term infrastructure resiliency but also at addressing immediate quality of life issues, especially in low-income neighborhoods. The Plan examines ways to lower emissions from both private and public sector contributors in Norwalk. Additionally, it suggests simple interventions such as tree and native plantings that have layered benefits including sequestering CO2 emissions, mitigating flooding, enhancing the landscape, and creating shade canopies; sound investments for Norwalk to address multiple concerns simultaneously.

The SRP is only the beginning of the work that must be accomplished. As the Redevelopment Agency and the City work together to implement plan initiatives, we will continue to look to residents and business owners to share their experiences, challenges, and ideas. To read the SRP and learn about assessments completed as first steps towards creating the SRP, visit the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency website.

SoNo Community Development Plan

Housing Initiatives

South Norwalk Improvement Program (SNIP)

SNIP is intended to help facilitate equitable housing improvements for low-moderate income homeowners and property owners renting to low-moderate income tenants. The program seeks to make façade improvements and critical interior repairs to both beautify properties and sustain or improve the condition of properties occupied by income eligible residents.

Historic Façade Improvement Program

The Historic Façade Improvement Program seeks to maintain and preserve historic properties throughout Norwalk. Exterior improvements have a positive visual impact, stimulate private investment, and complement other community development efforts. This program is intended to assist property owners with projects that are typically too small to generate historic tax credits. The application guidelines subject the properties to historically accurate benchmarks for improvements to maintain the historic characteristics of each property.

Residential Improvement Fund (Low-Interest Loan Program)

The Residential Improvement Fund is a federally funded, low-interest loan program for Norwalk residents who qualify under the program guidelines. The program is reserved for low-moderate income, owner occupied and rental property owners, and non-profit organizations. Payments on loans recycle into the Revolving Loan Fund, which is reserved for future housing activities to support low-moderate housing improvement projects.

To stay informed about Housing Initiatives:

If you are a property owner interested in our housing improvement programs, email Sivan@Norwalkct.gov to be added to our contact list should a program become available.

Information and additional opportunities can be found on the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency’s Grants & Programs webpage .

Current & Upcoming Community Engagement

Nonprofit Capacity Building Workshop Series: Fostering Strong Interagency Collaboration

June 23rd (Guest speaker: Jennifer Barahona, CEO, Norwalk ACTS)

More Info & Registration >>

Digital Equity Workshop

August 13th - Details coming soon!

CDBG ConnPlan

Community input events happening soon.

Watch for information here >>

Stormwater Management Survey

The City of Norwalk is currently assessing ways to improve our local sustainability and we want your input! Please take our short survey and at the end you will be provided an opportunity to enter for a chance to win a $200 Visa gift card to be used anywhere Visa is accepted.

Collecting responses through June 30th.

Esta encuesta está disponible en español.

Sondaj sa a disponib an kreyòl ayisyen.

Norwalk Launches First Sustainability and Resilience Plan

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 13:08:29 GMT

Mayor Rilling and the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency release their first Sustainability and Resilience Plan; A Roadmap to Fast-track Norwalk becoming the Greenest City in CT

On Wednesday, March 13th, 2024, Mayor Rilling and the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency released a draft of the City of Norwalk’s first Sustainability and Resilience Plan (SRP). The SRP serves as a roadmap that builds on the City’s sustainability and climate resilience efforts while placing Norwalk on a fast track to becoming the greenest city in Connecticut.

RDA Awarded $2M Brownfield Remediation Grant for Webster Block Redevelopment

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 18:26:38 GMT

472 Mixed-Income Apartments • Retail & Office Space • Pedestrian Walkway with Shops, Cafes, Restaurants

Norwalk Redevelopment Agency (RDA) was awarded a $2 Million grant from the State of Connecticut to remediate the 4.97-acre, city-owned Webster Block parking lot located at 55 Martin Luther King Jr Drive. Redevelopment plans were selected through a competitive bid process and awarded to Quarterra (formerly LMC) and include approximately 472 affordable mixed-income apartment units, 57,786 square feet of retail space, and 25,000 square feet of office space. In addition, plans include a pedestrian-only walkway lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops.

"The long-awaited Webster Street block redevelopment is about 10 months away from shovels in the ground,” said RDA Executive Director Brian Bidolli.

Public outreach begins this month. It will take 8-10 months to structure a deal with the City, followed by a 24-36 month construction period. Negotiations are already underway for a Land Disposition Agreement (LDA), with RDA supporting a 20% affordable housing goal. This plan will also increase parking from 650 to 1100 spaces.

“Cleaning up blighted properties that have been vacant for decades and putting them into productive use will ultimately generate private investment equal to many times these state grants,” Governor Lamont said. “If we remediate these properties now, we can turn an eyesore into an asset, revitalize neighborhoods, and transform otherwise unusable property into new space for businesses and residents.”

“The site was occupied by industrial land users in the 19th century and the site’s Environmental Site Assessment reports indicate contaminants in the soil. The site is used for surface parking currently, but due to its prominent location in the City, and proximity to the South Norwalk train station, a surface parking lot is not the highest and best end use. However, in order for the site to be developed, the soil contaminants need to be cleaned up so that the site is suitable for more intensive economic development uses,” said Jim Watson, spokesperson for the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD).

RDA Wins $2M Grant for Street Improvements

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 14:20:43 GMT

Norwalk Receives $2 Million in State Funds for Transit-Oriented Development Infrastructure Improvements

On October 12, 2022, Governor Ned Lamont announced that he approved $2 million in grant funding for the Pinnacle Transit-Oriented Development Infrastructure Project. The funding will be used primarily to repair sidewalks, manage stormwater, install crosswalks, underground utilities, and repave and stripe West Avenue, Merwin Street, Berkeley Street, Orchard Street, Butler Street, Quincy Street. The grant was awarded via a competitive state grant program that supports transit-oriented development and is targeted at boosting economic activity and creating jobs.

"This Transit-oriented development project and its accompanying infrastructure improvements will continue Norwalk's revitalization in its urban core, creating increased mobility for residents and a better environment for economic opportunities and jobs," said Brian Bidolli . "I thank Governor Lamont and our state legislators for all of their continued support of our Redevelopment efforts.

"I applaud Governor Lamont for investing in Norwalk's critical transit-oriented infrastructure and thank Senate Majority Leader, Bob Duff, for his continued leadership in advocating to bring home funds to our City," said Mayor Rilling. "Our vision in Norwalk is to increase walkability and livability, while combatting the threats of Climate Change by investing in critical green infrastructure. Funding to install new crosswalks, repair many of our sidewalks and repave several streets within Norwalk's urban corridor will not only create jobs but will enhance safety and encourage more environmentally friendly modes of transportation such as walking and biking. These efforts will help reduce our carbon footprint and ensure Norwalk continues on the path of becoming a more sustainable place to live and work."

TOD Press Conference with Governor

Fri, 27 May 2022 21:54:56 GMT

Duff, Rilling Applaud $6 Million in State Funding for Norwalk Infrastructure and Transit-Oriented Development

At a press conference on May 16, 2022, State Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) and Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling applauded the announcement of a $6 million state grant for the city of Norwalk and the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency to make infrastructure upgrades to facilitate the construction of new residential and commercial development near the South Norwalk train station.

The announcement was a part of $45 million awarded to twelve cities and towns under Governor Lamont's newly established Connecticut Communities Challenge Grant Program. The grants are leveraging approximately $74 million in non-state and private dollars and will support projects that improve the livability and vibrancy of communities throughout the state.

“This $6 million grant from the State of Connecticut will provide funding for critical infrastructure upgrades that will help balance the impacts of development with meaningful reinvestment into the community," said Brian Bidolli, Executive Director of the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency. "The development of additional commercial space, transit-oriented and parking amenities, a public plaza, and mixed-income residential units will enhance South Norwalk's redevelopment and revitalization. My thanks to the Governor’s Office, DECD, Sen. Duff, Mayor Rilling, the Norwalk Common Council, and the various other city staff and community stakeholders, for all of their support in obtaining this Challenge Grant.”

RDA Launches New Website

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 18:02:45 GMT

Welcome to our new website! Based on Norwalk Redevelopment's five-year Strategic Plan , the new website has many new features and fresh content...

Based on Norwalk Redevelopment's five-year Strategic Plan , the new website has many new features and fresh content, including current projects, Community Development Block Grant eligibility, applications, and timely project updates. Information and applications for small business and housing programs are also available to qualifying businesses and residents within the city’s urban core.

Redevelopment Agency Executive Director Brian Bidolli said the new website was created with the goal of presenting the Agency’s strategic plan in an easy-to-navigate, user-friendly, convenient way.

“The Agency has been busy working with relevant stakeholders to implement the strategic plan and redevelop and reinvest in areas of Norwalk in a thoughtful, deliberate way,” said Bidolli. “This new website puts all of the necessary information regarding housing, transportation, façade improvement and all the other various programs offered by the Agency to qualifying individuals and entities right at your fingertips. I encourage people to visit the site and to stay updated on the latest information.”

In addition to transportation and housing projects, information regarding support for small, minority, and women-owned businesses can be found on the site.

Redevelopment Agency expanding its reach and services

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 19:51:23 GMT

Redevelopment Agency expanding its reach and services

The Norwalk Redevelopment Agency will be expanding its footprint within the city. The agency will be moving some of its core project management staff and community service team to 50 Washington Street in South Norwalk as of March 1.

The agency will retain some administrative personnel and provide additional space for a small business development center at its current office building located at 3 Belden Ave. Small business loan services, along with workforce development programs will be among the services offered at this new workforce development and small business center.

The RDA and the City of Norwalk remain committed to supporting residents with low incomes and woman and minority businesses that want to grow or startup in the city.

More information on this exciting initiative to come!

South Norwalk Train Station Area Study

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 23:58:46 GMT

The Norwalk Redevelopment Agency is currently implementing its Norwalk TOD Redevelopment plan.

Under the guidance of the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency and the City of Norwalk, a study of the area surrounding the South Norwalk Train Station is underway.

The study will move through two phases and the final plan will include graphic representations of the potential build-out. The first phase of the study will examine some initial questions to establish baseline conditions for the area. A public meeting is being planned for early Fall.

New Plan, New Brand

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 23:53:41 GMT

Norwalk Redevelopment Launches Strategic Plan and New Branding

The Strategic Plan

In 2020, the agency Executive Director, Brian Bidolli, led a three-phased process — discovery, design and deployment — to engage the community in producing a new strategic plan for Norwalk Redevelopment. The discovery phase included taking an inventory of existing plans and projects, talking with key community stakeholders, and establishing three advisory committees to represent: the public, the business community, and the city. This process also included several surveys and community outreach and engagement. The design included organizational analysis, policy recommendations and an implementation and performance matrix. Deployment was multi-pronged and included internet and traditional media.

The final plan was introduced to the public in an online public meeting. Mr. Bidolli gave a presentation with an overview of the plan.

The plan is focused on implementation and project prioritization, given the depth and quality of existing plans. During the discovery phase, a comprehensive review of past plans was conducted and input was obtained from stakeholders, through interviews, surveys and workshops. An analytical engine was used in surveys to rank projects and an analysis was completed to prioritize key projects in Norwalk through 2025.

Board member, Mr. Igneri said, “This is a wonderful project, that helped me better understand the work and value of Norwalk Redevelopment.”

New Brand

During the development of the strategic plan, the agency embarked on creating a new brand that better reflects its updated strategy with a focus on performance, technology, community and redevelopment. The new brand began rolling out in the Spring of 2021.

EPA $500K Grant Win

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 23:39:24 GMT

The EPA grant awards help underserved communities across the country Build Back Better and address Environmental Justice concerns

EPA has selected the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency for a $500,000 Brownfields Cleanup Grant. Funds will be used to plan three public meetings and develop a community relations plan for cleanup and potential development at the South Norwalk Train Station.

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Norwalk Redevelopment News 🌳 October 2025

News & Updates

From the Desk of the Executive Director

Executive Director’s Update

For Vendors: Webster Lot RFP

View the full Webster Lot RFP on our For Vendors page.

South Norwalk Lexington & South Main Community Development Plan

Brownfield Clean-up Project:

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) at the South Norwalk Train Station

South Norwalk Improvement Program Highlights

Columbus Court + Community Challenge Grant

Pinnacle Streetscapes and OPM

Historic Façade Improvement Program Highlights

To stay informed about the Historic Façade Improvement Program:

Additional funding opportunities:

Norwalk Redevelopment News 🌳 November 2024

News & Updates

From the Desk of the Executive Director

SoNo Train Station Area Improvements

Residential Improvement Projects

Pinnacle Infrastructure and Streetscapes

MLK Corridor Equitable Mobility Enhancement Project

“We're grateful for all the support we received to secure a $14 million RAISE grant which will have a huge impact on improving safety, sustainability and social equity in the MLK Drive Corridor.”

Update on the South Norwalk Lexington and South Main Community Development Plan

About the Plan

Community Meeting Next Week

November 18, 2024

6:00 - 7:30

CDBG Con Plan

Current & Upcoming Community Engagement

South Norwalk Lexington and South Main Community Development Plan

Nonprofit Capacity Building Workshop: Strategizing and Executing Effectively

Business Improvement Districts Survey

Norwalk Redevelopment News 🌳 June 2024

News & Updates

From the Desk of the Executive Director

Affordable Housing & Job Opportunities

Sustainability & Resilience Priorities

Sustainable & Resilient Norwalk

SoNo Community Development Plan

Housing Initiatives

South Norwalk Improvement Program (SNIP)

Historic Façade Improvement Program

Residential Improvement Fund (Low-Interest Loan Program)

To stay informed about Housing Initiatives:

Current & Upcoming Community Engagement

Nonprofit Capacity Building Workshop Series: Fostering Strong Interagency Collaboration

Digital Equity Workshop

CDBG ConnPlan

Stormwater Management Survey

Norwalk Launches First Sustainability and Resilience Plan

Mayor Rilling and the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency release their first Sustainability and Resilience Plan; A Roadmap to Fast-track Norwalk becoming the Greenest City in CT

RDA Awarded $2M Brownfield Remediation Grant for Webster Block Redevelopment

472 Mixed-Income Apartments • Retail & Office Space • Pedestrian Walkway with Shops, Cafes, Restaurants

Related Links:

RDA Wins $2M Grant for Street Improvements

Norwalk Receives $2 Million in State Funds for Transit-Oriented Development Infrastructure Improvements

TOD Press Conference with Governor

Duff, Rilling Applaud $6 Million in State Funding for Norwalk Infrastructure and Transit-Oriented Development

RDA Launches New Website

Welcome to our new website! Based on Norwalk Redevelopment's five-year Strategic Plan , the new website has many new features and fresh content...

Redevelopment Agency expanding its reach and services

Redevelopment Agency expanding its reach and services

South Norwalk Train Station Area Study

The Norwalk Redevelopment Agency is currently implementing its Norwalk TOD Redevelopment plan.

New Plan, New Brand

Norwalk Redevelopment Launches Strategic Plan and New Branding

EPA $500K Grant Win

The EPA grant awards help underserved communities across the country Build Back Better and address Environmental Justice concerns