A controversial, $1.5 million study examining whether Hartford-Brainard Airport should remain open or be closed for redevelopment has been approved by the General Assembly, a study some hope will finally shape the future of the century-old airfield. The study must be completed by October 2023, pushed back from the initially proposed Jan. 1. The study will examine environmental, regulatory and economic aspects on both sides of the debate and wouldn’t be ready until the 2024 legislative session. A mixed-use redevelopment would benefit both the city and the region, drawing visitors and making the greater Hartford area more attractive to a young, sought-after workforce, Fonfara said. Redevelopment would open up more access to the Connecticut River and complement plans for the waterfront in East Hartford, Fonfara said.
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