A nonprofit that provides manufacturing workforce training has bought a 56,000-square-foot industrial building in New Haven for $1.3 million.
A limited liability company tied to New Haven-based Manufacturing and Technical Community Hub (MATCH) acquired the property at 5 and 17 James St. on roughly 2.5 acres, according to a deed recorded Dec. 31.
The seller was a limited liability company affiliated with Bankwell Bank, which acquired the property through foreclosure last June. The building most recently housed printing company Phoenix Press Inc.
The principal of the buying LLC is Marcia LaFemina, president of North Branford-based outdoor lighting manufacturer Pennsylvania Globe Gaslight Co. LaFemina is also chair of MATCH’s board of directors.
Attempts to reach LaFemina and other MATCH representatives were not immediately successful.
The James Street property was listed in October with a $2.4 million asking price. There was interest from out-of-state investors, a manufacturer, biotech group and developers, but Bankwell prioritized a buyer able to close by the end of 2025, said Kristin Geenty, president of The Geenty Group Realtors, which listed the property.
“It was definitely a successful sale for both sides,” Geenty said. “Bankwell wanted to close by the end of the year. The price was driven by the four-week closing time.”
Ken Ginsberg of KNG Realty represented MATCH.
Last week, the Dalio Education philanthropic organization announced a five-year, $2.5 million grant to support MATCH’s workforce development programs, including manufacturing training and support services. MATCH was launched in 2023 to address employment barriers in underserved communities.
