HARTFORD HOUSING AUTHORITY
Economic Development - Charter Oak Commons - Jobs and Cash Flow
see also: Recently announced decision by Wal Mart
see also: Job Corps Center
A necessary and integral component of the Charter Oak Terrace Redevelopment Project is the creation of a business park on 55 acres of the former development. A broad based partnership ranging from federal, to state, regional, city, residents and private interests have begun to implement such an economic development zone focused primarily on employment for Hartford residents.
 In a period of economic stagnation in northeastern cities in the United States, and with alarmingly high levels of unemployment among public housing families, it is incumbent on all concerned to find innovative means to create jobs. Congress and the State of Connecticut have recently imposed new regulations which call for each welfare recipient to be employed within a limited period of time.
The first project to get underway within the Park was the Hartford Job Corps Center. This is a 200 student facility designed to provide usable and targeted job training for "at risk" youth. Twenty two acres of land were donated by the Authority and grants from the City, State and the US Department of Labor were combined to underwrite the construction of the facility.
To further foster employment HHA advertised for a developer partner to create an economic development zone on the remaining approximately 50 acres. HHA chose CBL, Inc. to be the development partner and they in turn have secured a lease with the largest retailer in the Country - Wal Mart. CBL continues to locate additional stores to add to the complex.
In close cooperation with the City of Hartford's Economic Development Commission, HHA has reserved another 15 acres for other office or light industrial users.
Early estimates indicate that as many as 800 new jobs can be created through this initiative.
Long term cash flow to accomplish Housing Authority Goals
The long term viability of Public Housing in America rests on the premise that it must operate like a business. Current taxpayer resources need to be enhanced through business- like practices, leveraging of private investment and entrepreneurial ventures. The above initiatives by the Hartford Housing Authority will go a long way toward meeting that long term challenge.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN OTHER NEIGHBORHOODS
It is the intent of the Authority to create job opportunities in or near other public housing communities. "Without meaningful opportunities to earn a living wage", according to Executive Director Wardlaw, "the dream of moving most families from welfare to work will never work." Wardlaw emphasizes "that one of the best social service programs for families - is a job"
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