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Center Infrastructure Improvement Project Newsletter

Two-Week Construction Look-Ahead

As work continues in West Hartford Center, the following construction activities are anticipated along Farmington Avenue over the next two weeks.

August 10 – 14

Phase 2B

• Complete fine grading for sidewalks
• Form and pour sidewalks
• Place topsoil and seed around sidewalks
• Reposition and install the bus shelter
• Remove protective measures and demobilize from the phase

Phase 6A

• Paint crosswalks and install signage
• Relocate protective barriers
• Surface demolition at the intersection
• Prepare for granite curb installation
• Remove existing pavement and sidewalk pavers, including areas in front of businesses*
• Form and pour sidewalks in front of businesses*
• Install light bases and handholes
• Place the processed base for sidewalks

Phase 7

• Mobilize equipment and materials
• Establish the work zone using construction fencing and cones; fencing will be adjusted as work progresses
• Surface demolition and granite removal
• Prepare the processed aggregate base for granite installation
• Excavate and install light bases and handholes
• Excavate and install soil cells
• Install electrical conduits

August 17 – 21

Phase 6A

• Install granite curb
• Continue removing sidewalk pavers in front of businesses*
• Prepare storefront areas for concrete sidewalk installation
• Continue forming and pouring concrete sidewalks in front of businesses*
• Prepare additional areas for granite curb installation 

Phase 7

• Surface demolition and granite removal
• Excavate and install light bases and handholes
• Excavate and install soil cells
• Prepare the processed aggregate base for sidewalk and curb installation
• Install electrical conduits

*Outreach will notify affected businesses as soon as the exact concrete pouring dates are confirmed.

Please note: To prepare for sidewalk pours in front of storefronts, Gerber will remove the existing pavers and install temporary processed aggregate/stone dust walkways to maintain pedestrian access.

Every effort will be made to minimize disruption and maintain safe access to businesses throughout construction. All activities are weather-dependent and schedules are subject to change.

The project phasing plan has been updated. View the revised schedule here.

Business Spotlights

From longtime favorites to new neighborhood additions, get to know the businesses that add to West Hartford’s character, charm, and sense of community.

Bliss Matcha & Beyond

981 Farmington Avenue



Bringing a fresh and vibrant twist to West Hartford Center, Bliss Matcha & Beyond is the area's newest destination for premium ceremonial-grade matcha and handcrafted specialty drinks. Located at 981 Farmington Avenue, the café offers an extensive menu featuring everything from classic matcha lattes and tropical fruit-infused creations to signature favorites like the Banana Pudding Matcha Latte and Dirty Matcha.

Beyond beverages, guests can indulge in delicious desserts including matcha soft serve, tiramisu, cheesecake, and their signature banana pudding. Bliss Matcha & Beyond provides a welcoming space to enjoy high-quality drinks, creative flavors, and a unique café experience in the heart of West Hartford Center.

https://www.blissmatchaandbeyond.com/

J. McLaughlin 

981 Farmington Avenue

For timeless style with a modern twist, visit J.McLaughlin in the heart of West Hartford Center. Located at 981 Farmington Avenue, this boutique offers a thoughtfully curated collection of women's apparel, accessories, handbags, shoes, and seasonal essentials known for their vibrant prints, quality craftsmanship, and effortless sophistication.

Founded in 1977, J.McLaughlin has become a beloved American lifestyle brand, blending classic design with colorful, contemporary style while maintaining a strong commitment to the communities it serves.

https://www.jmclaughlin.com/pages/store-locator-ct-west-hartford

Stay Informed: Sign Up for Text Alerts

Community members and business owners can opt in to receive SMS text alerts for time-sensitive West Hartford Center Construction Project updates, including traffic impacts and schedule changes. Enroll and stay informed throughout construction.

ATTENTION: Local Businesses - Get the Business Toolkit

Signage to Help Keep Your Business and Customers Informed!

In this Toolkit:

• Business Rack Cards - Tips
• Business Placards - Click link below to see customized window and/or cash wrap signage for your industry!

If you need additional copies of outreach materials, such as window signs, or have any questions, please feel free to contact us at CenterConstruction@westhartfordct.gov — we’re happy to assist.

As construction progresses, we're working to maximize on-street parking for customers and visitors. To help, we encourage employees to use alternative parking options, including the Town Center Parking Garage, which offers reduced rates for retail and restaurant employees working in the Center.

The Town Center Garage rates are far lower than other options! The rates are $4.50 for up to an 8.5-hour shift and $7 for anything over 8.5 hours.

For more information, contact Kristen Gorski, Economic Development Manager, at kristen.gorski@westhartfordct.gov.

Stay Informed and Ahead of the Curve

For the latest updates and important information about the project, visit our project webpage. It’s your go-to resource for all the news, timelines, and tools to help your business navigate the construction period smoothly.

Have questions or feedback? We’re here to help—email us at CenterConstruction@westhartfordct.gov