Plans for a prominent downtown corner that envision a new development anchored by a regional bus transit center could unfold far more slowly that city officials had hoped, now that the latest round of a state grant program does not include funds to tear down a vacant, decaying structure on the site. The city had sought $22.3 million from the state’s Community Investment Fund to demolish the One Talcott Plaza office and parking garage complex between Capital Community College — the former G. Fox & Co. department store — and the burgeoning North Crossing project around Dunkin’ Park, the city’s minor league ballpark. Instead, at this week’s CIF board meeting, the redevelopment project — estimated to cost $200 million — received a planning grant of $250,000. CIF, which seeks to foster economic development in traditionally underserved communities, approves grants on a competitive basis. This week, 35 projects and programs were approved for funding, totaling $77 million. The projects included $10 million for the redevelopment of the languishing Enfield Square mall. The next round of grants will be voted on Sept. 30.
Massive CT redevelopment to unfold slower than hoped. Federal transportation funding could be issue