Economic Development Steering Committee

Essex has evolved from a shipbuilding center to a more diversified economy that includes manufacturing, retail, restaurants, and a thriving tourism sector. In 2021, Essex was named the “Perfect Small American Town” by Yankee Magazine.

Today’s Portland is an economically diverse community with an in-demand small-town feel and a high quality of life for its residents and businesses.

Killingworth, founded in 1667, has an area of 35.8 square miles and is bordered by the Middlesex County towns of Durham, Haddam, Chester, Deep River, Westbrook, and Clinton.

With nine marinas, four miles of coastline, and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, Westbrook’s economy is supported by tourism and recreation, manufacturing, retail, restaurants, and service-based businesses.

Residents and businesses enjoy the suburban community’s conveniences with diverse retail and restaurant selections, the high quality of life and good school system, and access to nature at the River Highlands State Park for hiking, walking, camping, and bird watching overlooking the Connecticut River.