Branford Seeks Professional Development Teams to Reimagine Town Properties

BRANFORD, CT — The town is inviting professional real estate development teams to respond to a Request for Qualifications to redevelop two town-owned sites: the former Branford Post Office/Board of Education Central Office at 1111 Main St. and the former Canoe Brook School/Senior Center at 11 Cherry Hill Rd.

Both sites offer "unique opportunities to advance community goals for the Town Center and surrounding neighborhoods," a news release from First Selectman James Cosgrove reads.

Located in the "heart of Branford’s vibrant Town Center," the 1111 Main St. site consists of a 0.57-acre
parcel featuring a historic post office building listed on the State Register of Historic Places and
contributing to the Branford Center National Historic District.

The 11 Cherry Hill Road site, west of downtown and adjacent to Country Plaza, includes a 0.79-acre property with a 14,732 square-foot historic structure, also listed on state and national historic registers as part of the Canoe Brook Historic District.

Both sites are currently vacant and present "valuable redevelopment opportunities" aligned with
Branford’s Plan of Conservation and Development.

The Town is seeking project visions that reflect Branford’s coastal New England charm and ideal location on the I-95 corridor, while promoting a unique and vibrant town center. Ideally, proposals will be pedestrian-oriented, include mixed-use development, and be sensitive to the need for appropriate housing and parking. Proposals should enhance neighborhood connectivity and support local economic growth.

"We are excited at the opportunity to bring these two historic structures into use in a way that builds on Branford’s dynamic economy," Cosgrove said. "The successful developer will have a vision for the properties that builds on Branford’s existing assets, geography, and historic sense of place."

About the RFQ

The RFQ is the first step in a multiphase process that will include due diligence, design review, public approvals, and construction. Qualified teams may submit proposals for one or both properties. The Town intends to shortlist development teams by October 15, 2025, with due diligence and predevelopment activities beginning shortly thereafter.

A virtual information session will be held on July 22 and July 24, 2025, and site tours are scheduled for July 29 and July 31. Interested teams must RSVP by July 21, 2025, to attend.

RFQ submissions are due by 4:30 p.m. on Sept.15, 2025, and must be delivered in both print and
digital formats.

A $12,500 good-faith deposit is required per site and will be credited toward the purchase price if the selected team proceeds to closing.

Click here to learn more, view site details, and download the full RFQ document.

Click here to RSVP for info sessions and site tours.

Questions should be submitted here.