Derby celebrates major redevelopment with new affordable housing

In a recent government meeting, significant updates were shared regarding environmental planning and community initiatives in Derby and surrounding municipalities. Ricardo announced the upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony for the redevelopment of 71 Monroe Street, which has transformed the site into 96 residential apartments, including nine affordable units. This project has seen over $1.1 million in public investment, complemented by $16 million from a private developer, marking a notable 16-to-1 funding ratio.

The RVP committee is set to convene in mid-October to select new assessment projects under a new EPA grant, with projects expected to commence by late fall. Additionally, the annual RVP meeting is scheduled for December 12 at Bad Son's Brewing Company, focusing on Brownfield projects, with a reminder that the DECT's Brownfield funding round closes on September 27.

The meeting also highlighted the initiation of a five-year update to the regional natural hazard mitigation plan, a requirement for municipalities to access federal grant funding for disaster preparedness. NVCOG plans to apply for a $300,000 FEMA BRIC grant, which will necessitate a 25% cash match from the 19 municipalities involved.

In terms of environmental initiatives, the final household hazardous waste event of the year is set for September 28, with a reminder for participating towns to send staff to assist. The meeting also provided an update on the open space inventory project, which aims to map and assess the legal protection status of open space parcels across municipalities.

Furthermore, the NVCOG is restarting its regional plan of conservation development, with a steering committee meeting scheduled for September 24. Municipalities are encouraged to appoint representatives to ensure diverse community input.

Lastly, the meeting announced an upcoming webinar on the 8-30g appeals process, aimed at educating planners and community members about municipal responsibilities in housing development applications.

Overall, the meeting underscored ongoing efforts to enhance community planning, environmental sustainability, and disaster preparedness across the region.