Mayor Boughton Hails Approval of Zoning Changes to Aid Women's Shelter

During their meeting last night, the Danbury Zoning Commission unanimously approved changes to the zoning regulations and a change in the zoning designation of the former Mallory Hat Factory site to facilitate the construction of a transitional housing facility, which will be operated by the Women’s Center of Greater Danbury.

The City Council approved Mayor Boughton’s request to transfer the City property to the Women’s Center in November of 2017. The City of Danbury, including the Mayor’s Office and the Department of Public Works, has since worked with the Women’s Center to turn a once contaminated space into a useful piece of property. Additionally, the State Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) awarded the Women’s Center a $1.1 million Brownfield cleanup grant for the project.  

Mayor Mark Boughton hailed the approval, pointing to the number of crucial services provided by the Women’s Center for free to women, men and children in need, over the course of the last 40 years.

“Being able to utilize this previously dormant and contaminated property for such a noble and just cause is another win-win for our city,” said Boughton. “We are pleased that my administration was able to successfully work with all the various stakeholders to move this worthwhile project forward in a bi-partisan manner.”

Since their founding in 1975, the Women’s Center has been a safe haven to victims of domestic and sexual violence in the Northern Fairfield and Southern Litchfield County areas. Each year, the Center serves over 20,000 individuals from area communities. All funds provided to the Center support critically needed domestic violence, sexual assault and resource services for adults and children.