942 Main Street Redevelopment Project
The Town of Manchester is advancing the redevelopment of 942/ 1050 Main Street, a key downtown site, following a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process. In March 2026, a Board of Directors Steering Committee recommended working with GRAVA Properties to bring forward a mixed-use development concept consistent with the goals of Manchester NEXT, the Town’s Plan of Conservation and Development.
The proposed project includes new housing, ground-floor commercial space, public gathering areas, and parking solutions designed to support downtown businesses and enhance walkability. The redevelopment represents an investment of over $40 Million, based on estimates provided by the developer, in the heart of downtown and aims to strengthen Main Street as a vibrant destination for residents, visitors, and local businesses.
The Town of Manchester is advancing the redevelopment of 942/ 1050 Main Street, a key downtown site, following a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process. In March 2026, a Board of Directors Steering Committee recommended working with GRAVA Properties to bring forward a mixed-use development concept consistent with the goals of Manchester NEXT, the Town’s Plan of Conservation and Development.
The proposed project includes new housing, ground-floor commercial space, public gathering areas, and parking solutions designed to support downtown businesses and enhance walkability. The redevelopment represents an investment of over $40 Million, based on estimates provided by the developer, in the heart of downtown and aims to strengthen Main Street as a vibrant destination for residents, visitors, and local businesses.
-
About GRAVA Properties
Share About GRAVA Properties on Facebook Share About GRAVA Properties on X (formerly Twitter) Share About GRAVA Properties on Linkedin Email About GRAVA Properties linkBased in the Greater Hartford area, GRAVA Properties is a real estate development and investment company specializing in mixed-use, multifamily, and commercial projects. Founded in 2020 by Gregory Vaca, the company focuses on urban infill development—transforming underutilized sites into vibrant, walkable destinations that strengthen surrounding neighborhoods.
GRAVA's approach emphasizes thoughtful design, sustainability, and community engagement. The company works closely with municipalities and local stakeholders to create developments that complement existing streetscapes while supporting long-term economic growth. Their projects prioritize walkability, transit accessibility, energy-efficient building practices, and the preservation of community character.
Among the firm's signature projects is Founders Square in Windsor, Connecticut, an ongoing mixed-use redevelopment that is revitalizing a long-underutilized town center site with new residential housing, retail space, public gathering areas, and modern amenities. The project reflects GRAVA's commitment to reinvesting in established downtowns and creating places where people can live, work, shop, and gather.
Based in the Greater Hartford area, GRAVA Properties is a real estate development and investment company specializing in mixed-use, multifamily, and commercial projects. Founded in 2020 by Gregory Vaca, the company focuses on urban infill development—transforming underutilized sites into vibrant, walkable destinations that strengthen surrounding neighborhoods.
GRAVA's approach emphasizes thoughtful design, sustainability, and community engagement. The company works closely with municipalities and local stakeholders to create developments that complement existing streetscapes while supporting long-term economic growth. Their projects prioritize walkability, transit accessibility, energy-efficient building practices, and the preservation of community character.
Among the firm's signature projects is Founders Square in Windsor, Connecticut, an ongoing mixed-use redevelopment that is revitalizing a long-underutilized town center site with new residential housing, retail space, public gathering areas, and modern amenities. The project reflects GRAVA's commitment to reinvesting in established downtowns and creating places where people can live, work, shop, and gather.
-
Manchester Selects Development Partner for 942/ 1050 Main Street Redevelopment
Share Manchester Selects Development Partner for 942/ 1050 Main Street Redevelopment on Facebook Share Manchester Selects Development Partner for 942/ 1050 Main Street Redevelopment on X (formerly Twitter) Share Manchester Selects Development Partner for 942/ 1050 Main Street Redevelopment on Linkedin Email Manchester Selects Development Partner for 942/ 1050 Main Street Redevelopment link
The Town of Manchester is taking an important step forward in the revitalization of Downtown with the selection of GRAVA Properties as the preferred developer for the 942/ 1050 Main Street site.
This milestone follows a multi-year process that began with the Town’s acquisition of the property in 2023, demolition of the existing structure in 2024, and a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) issued in early 2025. After receiving five proposals and conducting multiple rounds of interviews, the Steering Committee presented its recommendation in March 2026.
GRAVA Properties has proposed a mixed-use development designed to advance key community goals identifiedContinue reading
The Town of Manchester is taking an important step forward in the revitalization of Downtown with the selection of GRAVA Properties as the preferred developer for the 942/ 1050 Main Street site.
This milestone follows a multi-year process that began with the Town’s acquisition of the property in 2023, demolition of the existing structure in 2024, and a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) issued in early 2025. After receiving five proposals and conducting multiple rounds of interviews, the Steering Committee presented its recommendation in March 2026.
GRAVA Properties has proposed a mixed-use development designed to advance key community goals identified in Manchester NEXT, the Town’s Plan of Conservation and Development. The proposal focuses on creating a vibrant, walkable destination that complements the character of Downtown while introducing new opportunities for housing, business growth, and community activity.
Project Highlights (Conceptual)
· Approximately 116 new residential units, including a mix of studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and artist lofts
· Ground-floor commercial space featuring retail, dining, and local business opportunities
· A public plaza and gathering spaces designed to enhance the pedestrian experience
· Approximately 100 public parking spaces (combined bike and vehicle parking)
· Integration with existing transit, bike, and pedestrian networks
The development is designed to:
· Increase housing options in Downtown
· Support small businesses and economic development
· Improve streetscape and walkability along Main Street
· Strengthen Downtown’s identity as a cultural and social hub
The project will now move into the next phases of review, design, and public engagement. Community input will continue to play an important role as plans are refined. More information, updates, and opportunities for input will be shared on this page as the project progresses.
-
Feb 2023
942 Main Street Redevelopment Project has finished this stageBoard of Directors approves the purchase of 942 Main Street
-
Nov 2024
942 Main Street Redevelopment Project has finished this stageExisting building at 942 Main Street is demolished
-
Jan 2025
942 Main Street Redevelopment Project has finished this stageRequest for Proposals (RFP) for redevelopment is released
-
Apr 2025
942 Main Street Redevelopment Project has finished this stageFive RFP bids received; Steering Committee begins review
-
May -September 2025
942 Main Street Redevelopment Project has finished this stageSteering Committee interviews developers, including follow-up interviews with finalists
-
March 2026
942 Main Street Redevelopment Project has finished this stageSteering Committee presents recommendation to the Board of Directors. Board authorizes Town Manager to enter into a development agreement with GRAVA Properties.
-
Next Steps
942 Main Street Redevelopment Project is currently at this stageOnce a development agreement is signed, GRAVA Properties will move into the design, permitting, and approvals processes. If approved, construction could begin, with completion anticipated around 2029.