New Use Sought For Former Milford K-Mart Site: Here's What Is Proposed

MILFORD, CT — A developer, Casey Associates Limited, is seeking approval for a zone change to redevelop the former K-Mart shopping plaza and allow for multifamily housing at 589 Bridgeport Ave., according to plans filed with the Planning and Zoning Board.

No action has been taken yet on the request, but plans filed with the city state that the "proposed development consists of approximately 47,000 Square Feet of shopping center (retail) and 180 units of mid-rise multifamily residential."

The New Haven Register reports that the applicant would add multifamily housing where K-Mart was located, while maintaining and upgrading the remaining commercial buildings on site.

In documents filed with the city, it states that the site currently includes the vacant K-Mart, Ocean State Job Lot, Dollar Tree, Walgreens, Taco Bell, and a small strip center adjacent to Bridgeport Avenue, which includes Subway, a liquor store, and other vacant space.

"With the exception of Taco Bell and Walgreens, the center is characterized by outdated facades, broken pavement, minimal landscaping, and a timeworn appearance," the records state. "The property is both all-too-tangible evidence of the dramatic changes that have occurred in the retail landscape, with a particularly deleterious impact on Devon, and the best opportunity to catalyze the revitalization of Devon."

Several business owners have submitted letters in support of the proposal, including the owner of the popular Dockside Brewery, Bob Chicoine.

"Since opening in April 2020, we've been humbled by the outpouring of support for our brewery and restaurant both locally and statewide," Chicoine wrote. "Between state and city support, we've highlighted Devon businesses for visitors looking for destinations on Bridgeport Avenue and the Walnut Beach area.

"Being a new business, I certainly understand the importance of attracting more development on our side of the city and believe the proposed regulation amendment would bring more residents who support local businesses like Dockside Brewery. Having a balanced approach to retail and housing on this site gives a much-needed vibrancy to this neighborhood and hope the commission can support its application," he wrote.

ShopRite owner Harry Garafalo wrote, "...I am submitting this letter in support of the regulation amendment in front of the commission tonight to bring new mixed-use retail and residential to Bridgeport Avenue on the site of the former Kmart. This parcel long neglected will provide improvements to retail; provide residential units with access to many Devon businesses, along with tax benefits to the city."

>>>Read more letters from local business owners here.