Open Doors Breaks Ground on New Affordable Housing Project in Norwalk

NORWALK, Conn. — Local officials, state representatives, and community leaders gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new affordable housing development spearheaded by Open Doors. The project, located at 24 Berkeley Street, will provide five three-bedroom, two-bathroom units with garages for families, addressing the critical need for deeply affordable housing in the area.

Michelle Conderino, a representative from Open Doors, expressed gratitude for the partnerships that made the project possible, including the Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH), Eversource, M&T Bank, Housing Ministries of New England, the Congregational Church of New Canaan, and Santa Energy Corporation. “The Department of Housing has been an amazing partner, guiding us through a challenging application process,” she said, thanking Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno and colleagues for their support.

Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling (D) underscored the city’s commitment to affordable housing. “We all know that in Connecticut, in Norwalk, and across the country, there’s a shortage of affordable housing,” Rilling said. He highlighted the significance of the new units, noting, “You don’t find many affordable units, especially at the 30% level, with the space to support a family.” Rilling also referenced other housing developments in the city, such as the 150-unit Wall Street Place project known as the Tyvek Tower.

Mosquera-Bruno acknowledged the statewide demand for affordable housing and the importance of innovative partnerships. “For some people, this is a small project, five units… but we’re trying to create options,” she said, emphasizing the DOH’s efforts to streamline processes and encourage collaboration.

Philip McKeough, Director of Community Planning and Development at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), highlighted the transformative impact of affordable housing on communities. “When people have access to safe, stable, and affordable housing, they can focus on building their futures, pursuing education, and enhancing the quality of their lives,” McKeough said. He commended Norwalk and Open Doors for their commitment to fostering inclusivity and economic revitalization.

State Senator Bob Duff (D) praised the project’s unique focus on family housing and stressed the broader implications of housing availability. “People will go where the housing is located,” he said, linking affordable housing development to economic growth and community stability.

The Berkeley Street site is near key community resources, including the Norwalk River Trail, Stepping Stones Museum, and Matthews Park, making it ideal for families. Open Doors expressed pride in its role in providing housing that enables families to stay in the communities where they grew up.

As construction begins, the project represents a collaborative effort to address housing affordability challenges, ensuring more families in Norwalk have access to secure and supportive homes.