Business in Cheshire is Bustling

While the economy is still sputtering, business here is bustling, the Town Planner recently told the Town Council.

One major employer is considering an expansion and the long-awaited W.S. Development project slated for Route 10 by the intersection of Route 691 is about to come to fruition, Town Planner William Voelker said, and the applications of applications for business space is increasing. 

The Economic Development Commission has been meeting with business owners to discuss concerns, according to EDC chairman Pelletier, and the commission is formulating a plan to address the concerns brought up in those meetings.

Ten local businesses have obtained either grants or loans through the state Department of Economic and Community Development, Pelletier said. Currently there are two major projects under construction, he said — the Cheshire Fitness Zone, which is moving from the Watch Factory Shoppes to a larger facility on Route 10, and a 15,000 square foot doctor's office on the same road.

The two projects both received financial incentives from the Small Business Express program, Pelletier said.

The town too has applied for money to go forward with project, Economic Development Coordinator Gerald Sitko said, including a $250,000 trail grant and a $500,000 grant for West Main Street sidewalks. Word is expected on both grant applications soon, he said.

To keep pace with the changes the town is undergoing, the Planning and Zoning Department is reviewing the Plan of Conservation and Development, Voelker said, and is looking to make "major changes" to the regulations.