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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.


June 15 – June 19

Phase 2

  • Reinstall bus stop structure
  • Complete paving around the curbline
  • Install root and weed protection in tree pits
  • Backfill and protect tree pits
  • Reinstall parking kiosk
  • Demobilize barrels and fencing
  • Remove equipment from the area and reopen for public use
  • ETC will be on site as needed to install fixtures, conduits, and complete related electrical work


Phase 3

  • Continue installing granite curb
  • Fine grade the area in preparation for sidewalk installation
  • Remove sidewalk pavers in front of Treva, up to the stairs*
  • Pour concrete sidewalk in front of Treva*
  • An existing electrical manhole will need to be raised by Eversource; this area will remain framed out and will not be poured with the surrounding sidewalk at this time


Phase 4

Pending submission and approval of the work zone/traffic plan:

  • Mobilize equipment and materials to the area
  • Set up maintenance and protection of traffic, including sidewalk fencing and cones
  • Construction fencing will be placed around the active work zone and adjusted as work progresses


Phase 5

  • Continue removing sidewalk pavers, roadway, and curb materials
  • Continue installing soil cells, handholes, and conduits
  • Prepare for granite curb installation
  • ETC will be on site as needed to complete related electrical work, including fixture and conduit installation


June 22 – June 26

Phase 3

  • Remove sidewalk pavers in front of Treva*
  • Form and pour sidewalk in front of Treva*
  • Outreach will notify impacted businesses of the concrete pour schedule once confirmed
  • Remove remaining fencing, cones, temporary signage, and temporary crosswalk materials
  • Demobilize barrels and fencing
  • Remove equipment from the area and reopen for public use


Phase 4

  • Begin removing sidewalk pavers, roadway, and curb materials
  • Begin installing soil cells
  • Begin installing handholes and conduits


Phase 5

  • Install drainage structures and piping
  • Install granite curb
  • Fine grade the area for sidewalk installation
  • Remove sidewalk pavers in front of businesses*
  • Form and pour concrete sidewalk in front of businesses*
  • Outreach will notify impacted businesses of the concrete pour schedule once confirmed
  • ETC will be on site as needed to complete related electrical work, including fixture and conduit installation


*Pedestrian Access Note

  • In preparation for sidewalk pours at business frontages, Gerber will remove pavers and place temporary process aggregate/stone dust walkways to maintain pedestrian access


Please note: All activities are weather dependent

View the updated project phasing plan here to see when construction is expected in each section of Farmington Avenue.

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.

Zohara

991 Farmington Avenue



Located in the heart of West Hartford Center, Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen brings the vibrant flavors and traditions of the Mediterranean to the community. Part of the DORO Restaurant Group, Zohara offers a unique dining experience inspired by the cuisines of Morocco, Israel, Albania, Greece, and the broader Mediterranean region.


Known for its shareable plates, freshly baked pita, locally sourced ingredients, and creative craft cocktails, the restaurant combines warm hospitality with a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to gather and connect. Since opening in 2017, Zohara has become a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike, contributing to the dynamic dining scene that makes West Hartford Center a regional destination.


www.zoharact.com/

Ichiro Hibachi & Sushi

962 Farmington Avenue


Ichiro Hibachi & Sushi has become a popular destination for residents and visitors seeking authentic Japanese cuisine and an engaging dining experience. The restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring fresh sushi, sashimi, specialty rolls, hibachi entrées, ramen, and traditional Japanese favorites, all prepared with a focus on quality and presentation.


Known for its interactive hibachi grills and welcoming atmosphere, Ichiro provides a unique setting for family gatherings, celebrations, business lunches, and casual dining alike. Through its commitment to exceptional food and customer service, Ichiro Hibachi & Sushi continues to be a valued part of West Hartford Center’s diverse and thriving restaurant community.


www.ctichiro.com/

Project Feature: Soil Cells and Tree Pits

As construction continues in West Hartford Center, you may notice crews installing tree pits and underground soil cells along Farmington Avenue.


While much of this work happens below the sidewalk, it plays an important role in the long-term health of the Center’s streetscape. Soil cells create space underground for tree roots to grow in healthy, lightly compacted soil while still supporting sidewalks, pedestrians, and activity above ground.


This helps new trees establish stronger root systems, grow more successfully in an urban setting, and reduce the likelihood of future sidewalk damage from restricted roots. Soil cells also support stormwater management by helping absorb and manage runoff below the surface.


Over time, healthier trees will help provide more shade, improve the look and feel of the Center, support air quality, and create a more comfortable pedestrian environment. Although soil cell installation requires extra work during construction, it is an investment in a healthier, greener, and more resilient West Hartford Center for years to come. Click here to learn more.

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.

The Retail Validation Program:

A Reduced Rate Employee Parking Option for Your Staff

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