On a sunny day, the Rotary Commons project site became a hub of activity as key stakeholders gathered to review progress and discuss the future of this transformative housing development. The on-site visit was a testament to the collaborative spirit driving the Rotary Commons project, aimed at providing affordable, supportive housing to those in need.

In Attendance:

Carol Gooden, Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA)
Hiral Parikh, Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA)
Larry Kluetsch, Housing Consultant
Anthony Gaglio, Jr., Vice President, Viking Construction
Elena Kalman, Kalman Design
Carmen Colón, President & CEO, Pacific House
Jennifer Broadbin, Associate Director of Housing Development, Pacific House

The visit included a comprehensive tour of the project site and surrounding areas, allowing attendees to visualize the impact of the development on the community. The Rotary Commons project, a key initiative for Pacific House, represents a significant step forward in our mission to end homelessness through housing.

Project Background:

Last year marked a significant milestone in the Rotary Commons project with a transformative $1 million donation from the Stamford Rotary Trust Fund. Allan Lang and Chris Farrugio from the Stamford Rotary Trust Fund joined a Pacific House Board meeting to discuss this crucial partnership. Their generous contribution exemplifies their motto of 'Service Above Self,' and will directly contribute to our new development at 41-45 Stillwater Avenue in Stamford. This partnership embodies service that places the well-being and advancement of our community above all else.

The funds will support the construction of 39 deeply affordable apartments, with 18 dedicated to homeless families in Stamford and across the area. The first floor will serve as the new headquarters for Pacific House, offering on-site case management services for tenants. Our focus on supportive housing will especially benefit senior citizens, who make up about 25% of our clientele, and others who've reached economic stability but are still priced out of the housing market due to skyrocketing costs.

What an extraordinary moment it was when Governor Ned Lamont announced a $2.45 million grant for Pacific House from the state's Community Investment Fund earlier this year.

This significant investment has already begun to transform lives, enabling us to add 39 affordable apartments at 41-45 Stillwater Ave. We're profoundly grateful for the state's recognition of the critical need for affordable housing.

Key Discussions:

During the visit, attendees engaged in productive discussions about the project's progress, challenges, and future plans. Topics included:

Construction Updates: Anthony Gaglio, Jr. provided insights into the construction progress, highlighting the quality and efficiency of the work being done by Viking Construction.
Design Considerations: Elena Kalman shared updates on the design aspects, ensuring that the spaces are both functional and welcoming.
Financial and Development Support: Carol Gooden and Hiral Parikh from CHFA discussed the financial frameworks supporting the project, emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding models.
Housing Strategy: Larry Kluetsch and the Pacific House team, including Carmen Colón and Jennifer Broadbin, focused on the broader housing strategy, ensuring that Rotary Commons aligns with our long-term goals of providing stable, supportive housing.

Significant Milestones and Support:

The Rotary Commons project has received notable support from key figures and officials. At a press conference held last year, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, and multiple state representatives expressed their support and enthusiasm for the project. Governor Lamont stated, "I love what's going on in Stamford. I think it's a template I'd love to see around the rest of the state. This is housing for folks with special needs, getting folks [housing] who deserve a break, folks who have gotten a bad break, folks who maybe are homeless. It's the type of smart, inclusive, compassionate growth that I think represents the best of Stamford and the best of Connecticut. I'm really proud of what we're doing here today together."

Mayor Caroline Simmons added,

"Affordable housing is one of my top priorities as mayor. As I've said, my goal is to build a more inclusive, equitable, vibrant city where everyone can thrive. And that starts with making sure we've got safe, affordable housing in our city. And I believe we not only have a moral imperative to do this, to make sure everyone has a roof over their head and a safe place to sleep at night."
Click **HERE** to listen to her message.

Looking Ahead:

The Rotary Commons project is on track to make a significant impact in the community, providing much-needed housing solutions for individuals and families. The collaboration between CHFA, Viking Construction, Kalman Design, and Pacific House exemplifies the power of partnerships in addressing complex social issues like homelessness.

As we continue to advance this project, we remain committed to our vision of ending homelessness through housing. The on-site visit was a crucial step in ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and motivated to bring Rotary Commons to fruition.

We extend our gratitude to all attendees for their dedication and contributions. Together, we are building a brighter future for Fairfield County.

Stay Tuned:

We will continue to provide updates on the Rotary Commons project as we reach new milestones. Your support and interest in our work are invaluable as we strive to create a community where everyone has a place to call home.