Date: March 24-28, 2024

Location: Norwalk, CT

Sponsor: The City of Norwalk

Panel Chair: Geoff Koski, KB Advisory Group 

The vision for Norwalk 2029 is a vibrant and thriving community, recognized nationally for its economic prosperity, cultural richness, and commitment to sustainability and resilience. The city aims to become a model for small cities, boasting a dynamic economy, diverse housing options, accessible transportation, and active open spaces. Norwalk seeks to preserve its historic identity while embracing innovation and growth. 

Key themes in this vision include sustainable development, economic prosperity, community well-being, and adaptation to technological advancements. The city plans to achieve these goals through comprehensive strategic plans such as the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD), Sustainability and Resilience Plan, and Redevelopment Agency Strategic Plan. These plans emphasize sustainable practices, economic growth, infrastructure improvement, and community engagement. 

Norwalk’s housing strategy is central to its vision, aiming to provide affordable and diverse housing options for residents of all income levels. The city recognizes the importance of preserving its unique neighborhood character while accommodating growth and development. Strategies include incentivizing affordable housing development, promoting mixed-use and transit-oriented development, and addressing gentrification concerns. 

To achieve these goals, Norwalk plans to leverage various funding sources, engage with developers and non-profit organizations, and explore innovative housing models such as community land trusts and co-ops. The city also aims to enhance public outreach and education, ensuring that residents are informed and involved in the decision-making process. 

Overall, Norwalk’s vision for 2029 is ambitious yet achievable, with a focus on creating a sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant community for all its residents. By prioritizing economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and social equity, Norwalk aims to position itself as a leader in urban development and resilience. 

Key recommendations include: 

• Frame housing policy in the context of creating great places— growth and change is necessary to achieve the places the community wants  
• Integrate housing strategies with existing city-wide visions to multi-solve   
• Look for co-benefits and funding opportunities  
• Position Norwalk as a regional leader in housing, focusing on positive outcomes 
• Diverse housing stock (and density) offers options that are more affordable than single family housing  
• Opportunity for empty-nesters and seniors to stay in the community  
• Intentional growth is good— residential growth plays a key role in supporting the places people want. Thriving economy and local business relies on customers  
• Density supports a walkable community– ability to attract and retain desired commercial, such as grocery; Thriving economy, local businesses, and vibrant neighborhoods rely on people 
• Reframe language beyond affordability: “housing accessibility”    
• The city should look at how mixed-use investment and commercial development helps ease the housing tax burden 
• More investment in walkability and public space