Printer Friendly Version - Branford PZC Approves East Main St. Mixed-Use Development at Former Days Inn Site

Branford's Planning and Zoning Commission has approved plans to develop 367,373-375 & 377 East Main Street, best known as the site of the former Days Inn. Demolition of existing buildings will be followed by new construction of a six building, multi-story mixed-used development for residential and commercial use.File Photo by Pam Johnson/The Sound

By unanimous vote, Branford's Planning and Zoning Commission has approved plans to develop 367,373-375 & 377 East Main Street, best known as the site of the former Days Inn. The decision allows for demolition of existing buildings followed by new construction of a six building, multi-story mixed-used development for residential and commercial use.

The applicants are 375 Metro LLC and Metro Star Co. LLC (Milford)/Robert Smith. Listed property owners are 375 LLC and Jai Sai LLC (Branford)/Hiren Chapatwala.

The development is set to include 144 residential dwelling units, of which five percent (eight units) will be designated to qualify as affordable housing. Approximately 5,234 square feet of commercial space will be incorporated into the development as well.

The PZC has been reviewing the application since September 3, 2020, including opening a public hearing Oct. 1 which was concluded at its Nov. 5 meeting. The PZC's unanimous votes to approve the multi-part application took place during the Nov. 19 PZC meeting.

Specifically, the PZC approved, with conditions, an application for a PDD/Master Plan Amendment for a mixed use development; a site plan application for a PDD (Mixed Use Development); and an application for a Zoning Regulation Amendment to Section 5.4.E regarding maximum building height; adding a special provision for measurement of building height for buildings with gable roofs. Additionally, the PZC approved a special exception application for grading and earth removal associated with redevelopment of the property to incorporate six new buildings and associated site improvements.

As part of the process, the developer will be demolishing five buildings on the 6.44 acre parcel, including the circa 1960's Days Inn, as well as a vacant former restaurant building and a former　branch of Key Bank and removal of one of two billboards on the site. Following removal of existing buildings, paved areas and utilities; plans then call for constructing new buildings, parking areas, sidewalks and other site amenities.