Developer proposes 12% affordable housing at new Fairfield Circle project

Fairfield's Affordable Housing Committee is making strides towards enhancing community living with a new development plan that aims to increase affordable housing options in the area. During a recent Town Council meeting on December 18, 2024, key discussions centered around the redevelopment of the Fairfield Circle site, which has long been underutilized as a hotel.

The proposal includes a mixed-use development featuring both residential apartments and a hotel, with a significant emphasis on affordability. The developers plan to increase the affordable housing requirement from 10% to 12%, which would result in 30 restricted units out of a total of 250 residential units. This move is seen as a response to the growing need for affordable living spaces in Fairfield, particularly for families and individuals earning moderate incomes.

The design of the new development aims to create a New England Inn aesthetic, integrating the hotel and apartment buildings with community-friendly amenities. The project will also include a parking garage and public access to the marsh area behind the site, enhancing the overall appeal and functionality of the location.

Concerns regarding environmental impact were addressed, with assurances that the building will not encroach on flood zones and will maintain a substantial buffer from wetlands. The developers emphasized their commitment to sustainability and community integration, noting that the new construction will improve water runoff management compared to the existing structures.

The meeting also highlighted the cyclical nature of the hotel business, with developers acknowledging the demand for more hotel rooms during peak times, such as university commencement weekends. However, they expressed caution about overextending hotel capacity, given the fluctuations in occupancy rates throughout the year.

As the project moves forward, the developers are exploring potential amenities within the hotel, including spaces for events like weddings, while also considering the addition of boutique retail options in the future. The community's response to these plans will be crucial as Fairfield continues to navigate the challenges of affordable housing and urban development.

This initiative represents a significant step towards addressing housing needs in Fairfield, with the potential to foster a more inclusive community while revitalizing a key area of the town.