The Economic Development Commission (EDC) met for its monthly meeting yesterday and continues to take on new roles and issues to its agenda.  Kathleen Alagno, President & CEO, Milford Chamber of Commerce, reported on the great success of Milford’s third annual restaurant week which took place from October 5 to October 11. The event is a collaboration between the Milford Chamber of Commerce, Inc., its Restaurant Council, and the Downtown Milford Business Association.  Twenty-seven restaurants offered affordable dining choices via special multicourse price fixed fare. Survey data shows that the event was a success, both for restaurants as well as patrons.  

The city of Milford and EDC have submitted an application to the State’s Department of Transportation (DOT), for Historic District attraction logo signage. Milford is home to several historic sites and collections. A few of which include,  the Eells-Stow House, one of the oldest houses in Milford,  the Claude C. Coffin Indian Collection, which contains a representation of every prehistoric period from the Paleo-Indian to the Northeastern Woodland Contact Period, and The Clark/Stockdale House, the first house built outside the stockade or palisades. Once approved, DOT will place the signage at exit 39-A both north and southbound, directing visitors to historic downtown Milford. The library will serve as the Welcome Center and will provide information regarding the historic district and other attractions in Milford.

The commission will also take on a new marketing campaign to align with our business retention efforts.  In efforts to enhance the business climate to ensure that new opportunities for job growth and capital investments are present in Milford, the EDC will work to create a message for small and big business touting the benefits of doing business in Milford.  The goal of this marketing campaign will be to create one short umbrella message with the ability to customize the message for small business, big business, technology companies, young professionals, start-ups, etc. Residents and businesses are welcome to weigh in with their thoughts.

Please reach out to Julie Nash, Director of Economic and Community Development, through email at jnash@ci.milford.ct.us or by phone at 203-783-3230 with any questions.