Waterbury Industrial Commons

Waterbury Industrial Commons is a large former manufacturing complex along the Naugatuck River that has undergone major environmental cleanup, demolition, and building renovations to return the site to productive industrial use. The property was historically home to Chase Brass & Copper—once one of Waterbury’s largest employers—and later fell into disrepair after operations ended. Through a multi-year public–private effort, the site is now being transformed into a modern industrial and research campus.

Location: South Main Street / South End Industrial Corridor, Waterbury, CT
Status: Ongoing multi-phase redevelopment (Major phases completed; new construction in progress)

Historical Background

• Manufacturing operations began in 1912

• A 600,000 sq. ft. “Mile Long Mill” expansion was built in 1914

• Peak employment reached approximately 8,500 workers

• Chase Brass ended operations at the site in 1976

• The site was later partitioned for smaller tenants, declined in condition, and became one of the largest tax-delinquent properties in the city

Redevelopment Effort

The City and its partners initiated long-term cleanup and redevelopment efforts focused on:

• Environmental remediation

• Demolition of unsafe structures

• Tank closures and soil cleanup

• Building renovations for new industrial tenants

• Roadway and infrastructure upgrades

• Private investment attraction