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Simsbury River Oaks files mixed-use application SIMSBURY, June 5, 2007 – Konover Development Corporation today took the first step in the approval process for Simsbury River Oaks, filing a formal application with the Simsbury Zoning Commission that will enable the commission and the community to review the proposed mixed-use neighborhood on Route 10, adjacent to the Avon town line. “We’re anxious to be before the land-use process, with its opportunity for full public input in a civil and deliberate forum. We’re confident that after the give-and-take of the approval process, Simsbury River Oaks will enhance Simsbury’s quality of life as well as the town’s net tax revenues,” said T.J. Donohue, counsel to Konover Development Corporation. “This is a singular opportunity for Simsbury to create a new, vibrant neighborhood as well as to enable the investment in our town which will create a new top taxpayer” Konover Development filed an application seeking three separate approvals:
“Konover Development’s team of internationally recognized experts has worked diligently to develop a program that will create a new “place” in Simsbury where people can live, work, visit their doctor’s office, shop for a range of different merchandise, or just take a walk and enjoy the park we’ve designed near the Farmington River Greenway,” said Donohue. A detailed fiscal impact study has concluded that Simsbury River Oaks will provide the town with additional tax revenue of $4.03 million annually after all municipal expenses are paid once the 959,000 square-foot mixed-use neighborhood is completed. The uses will include 40 percent -50 percent residential ranging from one-bedroom units above retail shops to large, upscale single-family homes; 30 percent -40 percent retail anchored by a proposed Target store; and 10 percent – 20 percent offices, including a proposed medical office facility for Saint Francis Hospital. However, there are other features such as the park that will provide direct access to and from the the Rails-to-Trails. The park will include a multi-use pavilion for general public use with outdoor seating, an information center, bicycle racks, restrooms, a pond and an amphitheater for small public performances. “We are anxious to finally present our plan.” said Donohue. “It is not only our work but reflects the input of more than 100 Simsbury residents who have met with us and have shared their ideas. We look forward to working with the land-use commissioners to make this significant opportunity a reality for the town and the people of Simsbury.” Contact: |
