CL&P Helping Turn Vacant Berlin Factory into Condominiums

The former Sherwood Tool Factory in Kensington will be coming back to life — as a condominium development.

CL&P announced it has delivered the final $1.2 million installment of a $2.7 million tax credit toward the development of this long dormant factory in the Kensington section of Berlin. Utilizing the State Historic Tax Credit, the power company has been working with Berlin officials and CIL to convert the factory into The Lofts at Sherwood Falls, according to a press release from CL&P.

“We are committed to helping develop strong communities and this conversion will help make Kensington a better place to live.” said CL&P President Bill Herdegen.

Located at 10 Main Street in Kensington, the recently completed condominium project includes 71 loft style units. The mill building dates back to 1893 and was used for manufacturing until 2004.   

“CIL has done a remarkable job of restoring the historic character of the Sherwood Tool Factory while repurposing the building into high quality residential units," said Berlin Mayor Adam Salina. "I commend CIL for completing this landmark project that will be an asset for Berlin for many years to come.

"I remember getting a call from (economic development director) Jim Mahoney about a year into my first term as Mayor telling me that Sherri Cup was moving out of Berlin. I didn't know what we were going to do with an industrial building in a residential neighborhood. But, CIL came in and took an abandoned, blighted property and made this a landmark for the town. In addition we are getting an additional $220,000 in taxes for the town. It is truly remarkable where this building was to where it has come now."

“I would like to thank CIL, CL&P and Mayor Salina for preserving the historic character of the Sherwood Tool Factory,” said State Representative Joseph Aresimowicz. “This once abandoned mill that goes back to our town’s roots as a hub of industry and manufacturing has been transformed into a vital complex that many Berlin families will be proud to call ‘home.' The General Assembly remains committed to funding important tax credits, like the Historic Structures Tax Credit, that make important economic development projects like Sherwood Mill a reality.” 

By participating in these programs, CL&P has also supported the development of affordable housing units, shelter for victims of domestic violence, energy efficient buildings and the rehabilitation of blighted industrial space along Stamford’s waterfront. Since 2002,  CL&P has contributed more than $62 million to state housing organizations through Connecticut's tax credit programs. 

The above information came from a press release from CL&P. Robert Mayer added to this story.