Connecticut Advances Major Waterfront Park Redevelopments

Connecticut is pursuing major waterfront redevelopment projects to convert former power plant sites into public parks. On Manresa Island, Bjarke Ingels Group has revealed designs for the 125-acre Manresa Wilds park, featuring a glass-fronted family attraction with water slides, eco-friendly elements, and a public beach overlooking Long Island Sound and New York City, with a planned opening in 2030. The project also includes wetland restoration and walking paths to revitalize the area after decades of pollution. In New Haven, officials propose acquiring the English Station power plant on Ball Island to build Mill River Park, which would offer a public pool, playgrounds, sports courts, and hiking trails. Legal disputes over environmental cleanup at English Station continue, with the city and state urging United Illuminating to fulfill remediation responsibilities. Both projects aim to advance environmental justice and provide new recreational opportunities for local communities.