The Windsor Locks Board of Selectmen on Tuesday adopted a mission statement for a downtown marketplace that would go hand-in-hand with the new train station expected to be built next year.
First Selectman J. Christopher Kervick explained during Tuesday’s meeting that accepting a mission statement for the proposed development is the first step in the “implementation” process.
“I know it could be viewed as a relatively modest step. We’re not really looking to answer all the questions at this point, we’re really seeking to just get the ball rolling,” Kervick said. “But even though it’s modest, it’s also symbolic. Really, it represents the community embracing this concept.”
The mission statement read:
“The mission of the Connecticut River Valley Public Market at Windsor Locks Station is to create a powerful regional engine for economic, community, and agricultural development that takes advantage of Windsor Locks’ historic location adjacent to the Windsor Locks Canal and the Connecticut River and its position as a key rail stop between Hartford and Springfield and the home of the second-largest airport in New England.”
It continues, “The market should be filled with successful and distinctive owner-operated private businesses and public events that represent the unique character and culture of the Connecticut River Valley region. It should increase visitation; provide a net benefit to our citizens for fresh and prepared food; fine local, handmade crafts; entertainment, and education.”
The project will temporarily be titled the Connecticut River Valley Public Market at Windsor Locks Station.
Kervick introduced Aaron Zaretsky, whom he labeled as “the nation’s preeminent public market expert.” Zaretsky is a private consultant who studies public markets nationally and internationally. Prior to that, Zaretsky served as the executive director for Pike Place Market in Seattle for 15 years.
Zaretsky explained that he initially expressed doubt about a market in Windsor Locks.
“When Chris first approached me about a public market in Windsor Locks, I was pretty skeptical. Windsor Locks doesn’t have a huge population, and about one of every three feasibility studies that I do come to a negative conclusion,” he said.
“But the more I looked at it, and the more that I understood that within 12 miles there is about 300,000 people between Springfield and Hartford — that Windsor Locks was a transportation hub both by rail and by air. When we did the feasibility study it was really clear that it could be tremendously successful.”
After the meeting, Kervick said Zaretsky’s feasibility cost $30,000, paid for by a state grant. Kervick also said a business plan for the project was completed in August, which cost $85,000, paid for with money raised by the Tax Increment Financing district.
Zarestky said the project would create 400 new jobs, nearly 100 entrepreneurial opportunities, and several million dollars in tax revenues.
“It could be a major cash cow for Windsor Locks,” he said.
Roughly 20 residents spoke during the public input section, with all but a few expressing support for the proposed development.
Selectman Scott A. Storms asked Kervick how he intends to make sure more residents become aware of the project, suggesting a public hearing.
“I want to make sure our citizens are engaged and are a part of the decision making, and this isn’t something decided by a small group of people,” Storms said.
One resident said the idea was extraordinary, while another said the project would be a great influence to surrounding towns.
Kervick said the project will head to the Planning and Zoning Commission “soon.”
