200 Tyler Street Plans Revealed, Proposal Could Save Taxpayers Nearly $400K

Paul Carbo, chairman of the Blue Ribbon Commission concerning the future of 200 Tyler Street, delivered to Mayor Joseph Maturo Jr. the final recommendation concerning the old high school property on Thursday.

Highlights of the letter include: On Jan. 25, the commission voted 5-0 to endorse a multi-use purpose for the building consisting of a housing component and a community component.

Plans include retaining the gym and pool, and a space for the Historical Society and Teen Center for the community.

Members say they envision 90 to 105 age-restricted studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom units, with 80 percent consisting of 1-bedroom units. The renovation would cost $28 million and would be paid for by a private developer.

This proposal would generate $231,892 in tax revenue annually for East Haven, and the town would save an additional $150,000 by not having to pay for the utilities or equipment. In reality, this would be the equivalent of a 1.2 percent tax decrease, officials said.

The need for 55 and older housing is strong in East Haven as 30 percent of the 30,000 residents are older than 55, but there are only 509 age-restricted housing units in town in just six complexes.

The proposal still needs final approval.