I recall driving along Route 195 as a student at UConn many years ago, and while in some respects the route would appear largely unchanged, current expectations for the corridor and its association with UConn have changed greatly. The importance of the corridor and Tolland's relationship with UConn from an economic development perspective first came to my attention with a report produced by the Stakeholders Group under direction from the Town Council.
Tolland's proximity to UConn and role as a gateway were believed to be an economic asset, particularly given the increased importance in research and institutional transformation taking place at the University. Aside from the university positions held by many local residents, it was also believed that other beneficial outcomes related to research commercialization would be realized, creating a technology corridor linking Tolland to UConn in a manner bringing economic benefit.
References to the technology corridor can be found on the Tolland EDC homepage, a newly completed TEDAP, as well as local business journal articles.
Find out what's happening in Tollandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
In response to Roger's question about current developments, two important items come to mind:
- Tolland's PZC is presently considering specific zoning regulations appropriate for the Technology Corridor, regulations promoting office and technology uses with supporting services;
- the other relates to discussions concerning newly proposed development activity in the corridor, initially comprised of one and two bedroom condominium units, with discreet office buildings and work spaces to follow.
Additional information related to these two items can be found in recent Tolland PZC meeting minutes.
