Spinnaker Acquisitions proposes mixed-use development with waterfront access in South Norwalk

The Harbor Management Commission meeting held on July 23, 2025, in Norwalk, Connecticut, focused on a proposed mixed-use development at 108 Water Street. The project aims to enhance public access to the waterfront while incorporating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

The applicant, Spinnaker Acquisitions, presented plans for a development that includes boat slips, a boardwalk, office spaces, personal service establishments, apartments, and a restaurant. The proposal emphasizes creating a public realm, with approximately one acre of the 2.72-acre site designated for open space accessible to the public. Currently, the site has no public access or drainage improvements.

Adam Blank, representing the applicant, highlighted the project's alignment with the city's harbor management plan. He noted that the development would introduce water-dependent uses, improve water quality, and promote sustainable economic growth. The proposed boat slips are intended to accommodate both transient and reserved boaters, enhancing recreational opportunities in the harbor.

Architect Silan Pathanga elaborated on the design, emphasizing the importance of connectivity between the street and the waterfront. The development will feature walkways leading directly to the water, including a grand staircase for public access. The design aims to create a vibrant environment that encourages pedestrian activity and appreciation of the waterfront.

The commission discussed the project's potential impact on water flow and runoff, with engineers from the development team set to address these concerns in detail. The meeting concluded with a call for further evaluation of the proposal's consistency with the harbor management plan, as the commission considers the benefits of improved public access and recreational opportunities against environmental considerations.

Overall, the proposed development at 108 Water Street represents a significant step towards revitalizing the waterfront in South Norwalk, aiming to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and community access.