There is a space in Hartford (http://artspacect.com/hartford/) that focuses on providing affordable work/live/gallery space for emerging artists. The space is gorgeous with 1-3 bedroom apartments where the artists can work and focus on their creative careers. The gallery is large and allows for very eclectic and contemporary work. Hartford Artspace is an active community of young, professional artists and creatives that would infuse this area with so much life and color. I would love to see some of the old mills in this area provide this opportunity for people. There is such a need around here for affordable accommodations and workspace for artists, musicians, photographers, designers, and fashion students. This would be a project that anyone would be proud to be a part of.

I would be interested in hearing what POKO Partners has to say about this situation. Have you attempted to contact them?

If they cannot obtain financing to build condos or work spaces, then they should repair and secure the building before it deteriorates any further.

Turn it into senior and affordable housing.. Convenience store, small coffee shop and other type stores on the first floor which would be supported by the tenants and local residents. There's plenty of parking.

I agree with Millie...artists housing and studios. This vision overlaps with affordable housing and commercial studio space. There are several successful artists communities in New Haven as well. I know of SEVERAL people who would relocate to a community like this if the proper work/living space option were available.