Connecticut Mill Redevelopment Proposed for 116 Condos After Decades

The historic Belding-Corticelli silk thread mill site in Thompson, Connecticut, might finally wake up after more than seventy years of sitting empty and falling apart. Builder Robert Letskus of Refined Living LLC has put forward a $25 million plan to turn the 33-acre property into a lively mixed-use complex, mixing new housing, retail, and dining, all while keeping some of the site’s historic features in place.

Residents in town will get to decide if the project should move forward. They’ll soon vote on key measures that could kickstart the process.

Find Your Ideal Getaway in Connecticut
Explore top-rated stays with no booking fees and instant confirmation. Your dream trip starts here!
Start Exploring Now

Revitalizing a Once-Thriving Mill Site

This mill was once a big part of Connecticut’s textile manufacturing scene, but it’s been empty since the mid-1900s. Over the years, it’s become an eyesore for the town.

Many locals and officials now see a rare chance to restore the long-neglected property and give the local economy a boost.

The Vision for Thompson’s Downtown

The plan calls for 116 townhouse-style condos, with about 90% sold at market rate and 12 units set aside as affordable housing. There’s also space for retail and up to three restaurants, aiming to draw in both locals and visitors.

This mix of homes and businesses could finally give downtown Thompson the walkable, community feel it’s been missing.

Financial Steps Toward Progress

For anything to happen, residents need to vote on selling the property’s existing tax liens to Letskus for $65,000 and giving his company a three-year tax break. If they agree, it would allow a friendly foreclosure against the current owner and clear the way for redevelopment—hopefully without a legal slog.

Town Support and Anticipated Benefits

Town officials are pretty enthusiastic about the project, pointing out how the site’s been falling apart for decades and how much new housing is needed. They estimate that, once finished, the development could bring in around $580,000 a year in new tax revenue—money that could help fund services in Thompson and neighboring towns like Putnam, Killingly, and Woodstock.

Environmental Considerations

State-funded environmental studies have already checked out the site and found only minor contamination. Cleanup and prep will add to the cost, but at least the project doesn’t face the big environmental headaches you see at some other old industrial properties.

Preserving Historic Features

Letskus wants to keep the site’s 135-foot smokestack and the small guardhouse. These landmarks still stand as reminders of Thompson’s industrial roots, tying the new development to the past.

It’s a strategy that’s worked in other Connecticut towns, like Norwich and Willimantic.

Regional Housing Demand Driving the Project

The developer thinks there’s strong market potential, especially with housing prices rising in nearby cities. With Boston and Providence close enough for commuting, more people are looking at eastern Connecticut towns such as Danielson, Griswold, and Lisbon for affordable homes and a better quality of life.

Projected Timeline and Economic Impact

If residents approve the plan, construction could start in about 18 months and wrap up within three years. The project would likely attract new residents, help local businesses, and give downtown Thompson the shot in the arm it needs.

That kind of ripple effect could even reach nearby towns like Brooklyn and Plainfield.

Why This Matters for Connecticut

This push to redevelop the mill fits into a bigger trend in Connecticut: turning old industrial sites into something useful again. Similar efforts in places like Manchester and Torrington have transformed abandoned mills into thriving parts of the community.

These projects don’t just save pieces of history—they also help meet today’s demands for housing and economic growth.

A Vote for the Future

The upcoming vote in Thompson will decide if the project moves into the construction phase.

For residents, this isn’t just about property taxes or zoning lines. It’s about shaping what their town becomes and maybe even reclaiming a bit of its history for the next generation.

Key Takeaways:

Redevelopment proposal totals $25 million for a 33-acre site.

Includes 116 condominiums, retail space, and restaurants.

Preserves the 135-foot smokestack and guardhouse.

Minor environmental contamination found.

Projected $580K annual tax revenue for Thompson.

Increased housing interest due to rising prices in Boston and Providence.

Here is the source article for this story: After 70-plus years of neglect, former CT mill property eyed for 116 condos

Discover Your Perfect Stay in Connecticut
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now