Economic activity in Middlesex County is booming.  The recent interest level is at an all time high and I am so pleased that this area in the state is a destination for so many businesses.

Middlesex County is a fantastic place to live and work and judging by the high economic development activity, it’s a real hot spot.  We have had a significant rise in businesses, retailers, restaurants and investors looking to move into this region, and that’s something I’m very proud of.

In Middletown, the multi-million dollar Kleen Energy System project is underway, as is the new Middlesex Hospital Emergency Room, which will be opening in the next few weeks.  The Harding Development Group has started their mixed use project on the corner of Main Street and Liberty Street, which will be a great addition to Middletown’s north end once complete.  O’Rourke’s Diner is once again open for business and has been a packed house ever since their grand re-opening.  Abe Kahoud has an exciting project for Washington Street as well.

Centerplan Development Company will begin their work on the old Middletown Press building, which will soon become a new office and retail building, while another possible medical building may go up on Saybrook Road.  There are also several hotels looking to build in Middletown and Cromwell.

The Federal Government is putting a military base in Middletown and although it has been met with some opposition, we are supporting this effort.  The base will bring over two hundred jobs to Middletown, not to mention a broader tax base and an increase in activity for local businesses and suppliers.

The Lowe’s project is underway in Cromwell, along with a large retail project on Route 372 and expansions on Sebethe Road.

Contrary to popular belief, manufacturing is not dead.  In fact, it’s alive and well in Connecticut and there are some manufacturing expansion projects in the works right now.  The importance of the manufacturing industry in the state is critical to Connecticut’s overall economic wellbeing and the Chamber will continue to support manufacturing initiatives.

 Middlesex County has truly become an ideal destination among developers.  Our workforce, economic activity and strong business community all contribute to the appeal, as well as the good working relationships that local businesses have with town boards, commissions, elected officials and employees.

For those of you who oppose development altogether I urge you to step back and consider the local economy and realize that as long as the developing is done properly, it’s usually a real win-win for the town, residents and business itself.

This is a great part of Connecticut, and I hope you’ll join me in my excitement to support these projects as these businesses consider making Middlesex County their home, too.

For more information on economic development in Middlesex County, please contact Jeff Pugliese at the Chamber by phone at (860) 347-6924 or by email at .