New Bidding Process for Stratford Army Engine Plant

A new bidding approach for the former Stratford Army Engine Plant site aims to bring an end to "17 years of disagreements and failed attempts" to redevelop the 78-acre brownfield.

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro and Sens. Joe Lieberman and Richard Blumenthal sent a letter last week to the Army and US General Service Administration (GSA), which owns the land. The letter was sent after a meeting with the federal officials.

"We write to thank you and your colleagues for recently meeting to discuss the future of the Stratford Army Engine Plant," the letter starts.

"Based on our conversation, we believe that we are in agreement in recognizing that : sale of the property to a developer that takes over ownership of the property from the Federal government and, most importantly, develops the property in a manner that benefits the people and Town of Stratford."

The letter then goes on to outline the new bidding process:

"As discussed, over the course of the next 30 days, the Army, GSA and Town of Stratford will continue to consider proposals from developers. During the subsequent 30-60 days, the Army and the GSA will determine whether a negotiated sale is possible with any of the interested developers. At that point, the Army and the GSA will be empowered to negotiate a final deal with a suitable developer in a timely fashion."

Stratford Mayor John A. Harkins, who was CC'd on the email along with Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, was optimistic that the new bidding process will yield results.

"After years of fits and starts, this office stands ready to work in partnership with our federal delegation, the Army, GSA, and the Governor's office to bring a successful redevelopment project to the Stratford Army Engine Plant site," Harkins said in a statement.

"I'd like to especially thank Rep. Rosa DeLauro for facilitating a productive meeting last week in her Washington office with all of the various stakeholders on this project," he added. "I look forward to working with the group on a successful redevelopment that will result in much-needed jobs for Stratford, and our state."