is transforming into the:
Northwest Connecticut Housing and Innovation Center
Live here, build here,
grow here.
The historic Winsted Health Center is being transformed! This vibrant new community center will combine modern living spaces, skills training and entrepreneurial opportunities, along with wellness services to create positive changes in Northwest Connecticut, especially for marginalized groups like veterans and those struggling financially.
This reimagined space will serve as a catalyst for addressing critical housing needs by creating 52 new affordable housing units. Designed to cater to individuals of varying income levels, this development aims to alleviate the housing affordability crisis prevalent in Winsted and the surrounding region, fostering a more equitable and inclusive community.
The center will also offer amenities like high-speed internet, a gym, and access to an advanced makerspace and co-working center. These will empower residents to participate in social, educational, job training, and business ventures within the center. The makerspace, in particular, will provide residents and local community with access to tools, equipment, and training to pursue their creative and entrepreneurial interests, helping foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and inclusion within our community.
Development Costs
Total costs are: $29,538,750
DEEP
(Environmental Remediation)
$500,000
Congressional Funding
(Makerspace)
$1,000,000
$2,038,750
DECD-CIF 2030
(Pre-development)
$8,000,000
DOH
(Housing Development)
LIHTC Investment
(Housing Development)
$11,000,000
DECD-CIF2030
(Innovation Center)
$7,000,000
Features & Amenities
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Modern Appliances
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Residents Gym & Wellness Studio
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On site Makerspace, Co-working and Industry Innovation Center
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VA Community Based Outreach Center
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Access to Bus Transportation and Highways
77,275
Sq. Ft.
1
Building
52
Units
Makerspace
Equipment
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Computer Workstations
-
Graphic Design & CAD Software
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Plastic/Composite 3D Printers
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Laser Cutter/Engravers
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Textile Cutting & Embroidery Tools
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Dye Sublimation Printer
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Wood & Plastic CNC Routers
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Joinery and Finishing Tools
Programs
In collaboration with makerspaces across Connecticut and New England, the NCHIC will provide an extensive array of classes to the community. These classes will cover a diverse range of topics, including equipment and materials safety, equipment operations, prototype design, manufacturing workflow, and small-scale production. Classes will be designed to either standalone, compliment other makerspace training or compliment the growing range of online classes provided by accredited colleges, universities, and online learning platforms worldwide.
Additionally, in partnership with CT State Northwestern’s Entrepreneurial Center, we’ll offer training for new startups and existing businesses giving them the tools they need to execute, innovate and drive economic growth throughout the region.
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Thermoforming Equipment
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Plasma & Waterjet Cutters
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3 Axis Machining Center
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Vertical & Horizontal Mills
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MIG, TIG and Laser Welding Systems
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Spray Coating Tools
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3D Scanning & Measuring Equipment
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Hand Tools & Accessories
Built For Veterans
Within the facility, the region's only VA Community Based Outreach Clinic is strategically integrated alongside one of the largest makerspaces and co-working centers in the State. These features are designed to provide both resident and non-resident veterans access to specialized job training, education, and entrepreneurship programs. Through programs like Skillbridge and Army PaYS, veterans and the companies they hope to work with will be able to use these centers to enhance their skills and employability within the region. These efforts are particularly important in addressing the labor shortages prevalent in our region's defense manufacturing sector.