Developing Founders Plaza

A public-private trio of First Merchant Group, CRDA, and the Town of East Hartford embarked on a district development masterplan for Founders Plaza, a 12.6-acre riverfront property. Founders Plaza is host to active commercial buildings but has been perceived as underdeveloped and ideal for new mixed-use residential density.

Tecton teamed up with land planners, parking specialists, landowners, State and Municipal economic development leaders, and project finance and construction experts to envision a place for public interaction and community activity where families and professionals would want to live and work.

In a series of workshops and design concepts, this team explored the opportunities, constraints, goals and realities of creating a progressive, branded mixed-use destination on the Connecticut River in the Founders Riverfront District.