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April 20, 2023

Large-scale ‘HealthTech Park’ development planned for Branford acreage

RENDERING | CONTRIBUTED A rendering of a new 500,000-square-foot medical and life sciences development called 'HealthTech Park' planned for a 120-acre property in Branford.
By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo, New Haven Biz

A new 500,000-square-foot medical and life sciences development called “HealthTech Park” is being planned for a 120-acre property bordering I-95 in Branford.

The site is the former Bittersweet Farm parcel. Developers announced plans for the site on Wednesday.

Ryan Companies US Inc., a construction firm based in Minnesota, and Connecticut-based Henrich Partners LLC are co-developing the project with landowners Belfonti Companies LLC of Hamden and A. Secondino & Son Inc. of Branford, according to an announcement. 

Erica Dao, a spokeswoman for Ryan Companies, said Thursday the project still needs to be reviewed and approved by local land use boards.

The construction timeline will be shared at a later date, she said. Town officials have not yet received any formal application.

Plans are for the development to offer Class A medical office space for hospitals, medical groups and life science companies. According to the developers, it will provide space for doctors, researchers and innovators to do their work in a park-like setting, with trees, creeks and walking paths, while also providing easy highway access. 

Life science space has been in high demand in the region, with both New Haven and Branford becoming local hubs for the industry. 

Connor Lewis, vice president of real estate development with Ryan Companies, said, “HealthTech Park will shine as a beacon for the town of Branford and Connecticut, as well as across the country as a leading example of a healthcare and life sciences-centric development.”

According to Lewis, plans are to create a development that provides work spaces while also preserving nature.

“What we’re looking to develop on this site is extremely unique,” Lewis said. “There is a significant focus on embracing the natural elements of the property -  preserving the trees, streams, views - to create a place where businesses can thrive within islands of nature.”

Lewis said the company has been in discussions with several potential tenants, but he declined to identify them at this time.

The project is expected to create jobs for trade professionals during construction and to attract companies in the healthcare, life sciences, medical device, pharmaceutical and biotech industries once finished. 

Branford First Selectman James Cosgrove said the shoreline town has enjoyed a reputation of “being a go-to town for science, research and technology since the 1980s.”

“As life sciences continue to gain notable traction, Branford will continue to build on its reputation with HealthTech Park,” Cosgrove said.

Cosgrove noted how the property had been eyed by the biotech company CuraGen years ago, but that plan ultimately never moved forward.

"The site has remained undeveloped since," Cosgrove said. "That area has a cluster of biotech and life science firms, and there is a need for more space."

Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.

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