The prospective developer who hopes to transform the dilapidated Atlantic Wire industrial site into a “live, work and play” community says the project will attract a demographic that Branford needs – young upscale professionals.

Developer Robert H. Smith Jr. said the average age in Branford is 49, but the average age statewide is 39. “You’re missing this demographic in your community,” Smith said during a public hearing Thursday at the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z).

Smith, pictured at right above, is targeting the Atlantic Wharf project at millennials—young professionals in their early 30s, which comprise a large portion of the population nationwide. “Branford is exactly what they want—a walkable, safe, livable town where they can be part of the community.”

Smith, CEO and founder of the Metro Star Properties LLC in Milford, hopes to remediate the industrial site and build 205 apartments, several restaurants and retail businesses. The site is pivotal because of its location near the Town Center, the Branford River and the Shoreline East Train Station.

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By: Diana Stricker for Branford Eagle | Photo Credit: Diana Stricker