Storrs Center Update

I thought a spring update on Storrs Center was in order since it is finally warm enough to venture out of our cars and experience Storrs Center on foot. The Nash Zimmer Transportation Center is now open to the public and serves as a transportation hub for commuters and public transportation where you can pick up a WRTD bus, an UConn shuttle or a Peter Pan bus. The center also offers facilities for bikers, interactive kiosks with local information on Storrs Center and the local area and an advanced GPS system to track arriving and departing buses.

Leasing & Living at Storrs Center- All spaces are currently leased. Phase 1A -1, 9, 11 Dog Lane Phase 1B-1 Royce Circle Phase 1C-8 Royce Circle The Oaks on the Square is 100% leased at 1 Dog Lane, 9 Dog Lane, 1 Royce Circle and the newest building, 8 Royce Circle.

Phase 2– Wilbur Cross Way will consist of an additional 200 apartments and 34,000 square feet of commercial space. Once permits are in place work is expected to start in June 2014 and be completed by August 2015.

Phase 3- residential condominiums for sale. The Founding Residents Program.

Mansfield Downtown Partnership reports that the residential sales are progressing nicely. Interested persons are invited to put down a $1,000 refundable deposit to be first in line when plans and prices are fully developed for the 40 condominium units in this final phase of Storrs Center. It is a good idea to get in on the ground floor if you are even contemplating a move to Storrs Center. You can decline and get your deposit refunded if you decide living at Storrs Center isn’t for you for whatever reason. It is unpredictable what the response will be and will be dependent on price, amenities, location and restrictions (i.e., owner occupied vs. rented units).

Town Square– is still under construction and should be completed in time for the Celebrate Mansfield Festival on September 21st. There are ongoing fundraising efforts to complete parts of the Square including a shade shelter, art sculptures and support for future events at the Square. There is a Meet & Greet with UConn basketball player Shabazz Napier, planned for Friday, May 9th from 6-7 pm, at the UConn Co-op Bookstore at Storrs Center. There is a suggested donation of $10 to meet Shabazz and have a photo taken. All of the proceeds are going directly to the completion of the Town Square. Many of the businesses are offering donations or a portion of proceeds from Friday’s night sales as well. You can park in the garage or at the Dog Lane parking lot for free for 2 hours.

Price Chopper-is expected to open in June. That will be a great asset to the UConn area and Storrs Center residents who currently have limited shopping options and none within walking distance. Educational Playcare-contruction is starting now. The 5,000 square foot building adjacent to Price Chopper on the corner of Storrs Road and Charles Smith Way is still under construction and according the MDP, leases are currently being negotiated.

Storrs Center Events

• Meet & Greet with Shabazz Napier-Friday, May 9th 6-7 pm to benefit the Town Square. $10 suggested donation or any amount. UConn Co-op Bookstore at Storrs Center.
• Live Music Wednesdays resumes May 14- 5-7 pm Square Fair- Artists Showcase is set for May 23 5-9 pm at Dog Lane adjacent to the Town Square.
• Celebrate Mansfield Festival- September 21st.