New Business Approved for Former Milford Amusement Site

MILFORD, CT - Another new use for the former Smiles/Milford Amusement has been announced.

The Milford Planning and Zoning Board voted this week to approve a new health insurance company, which is a “well-established company,” to move next to the newly opened Panera Bread with a drive-thru window at 1645 Boston Post Road, the Milford Mirror reports.

The company’s name was not disclosed but it not only offers health insurance but it includes a nurse on staff and provides counseling and education to help people choose the best health insurance plan, the Mirror adds.

Late last year, the anchor store was announced for the site, which will be Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI).

The development includes a recently opened drive-thru Panera Bread and other retails shops will including a Verizon store.

REI is located in West Hartford and Norwalk in Connecticut.

REI sells gear and apparel for outdoor pursuits, including hiking, cycling, fitness, camping, snowsports, traveling, climbing, kayaking, canoeing, bird watching and more. Also outdoor classes are also offered at some locations, which is a unique feature offered by the business.

REI is expected to open later this year.

The site includes a 7-½ acre parcel.

The site has remained empty since it abruptly closed in August 2011. At the time it was believed home gaming and increased competition led Smiles to close. Milford Amusement opened in the 1980s. The facility was demolished last year.

Read the full Milford Mirror story here.

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