Enterprise Corridor Zone

Enterprise Corridor Zone Overview Enterprise Corridor Zones are designated to encourage development Route 8 (north and south including the state's Naugatuck Valley) as well as along Interstate 395 (north and south along the eastern region of the state). Key Incentives for Businesses Companies involved in manufacturing, research associated with manufacturing and distribution warehousing (new construction/expansion only) as well as certain service companies that develop properties within this zone may receive: a five-year 80% abatement of local property taxes on qualifying real estate and personal property (machinery and equipment)—the investment must be new to the municipality’s Grand List as a direct result of a business expansion and/or renovation, and other benefits as stipulated in the Connecticut General Statutes. Eligibility for Businesses Since these programs are designed to encourage capital improvements to land and/or buildings, businesses must be prepared to either renovate an existing facility by investing at least 50% of its pre-acquisition value in the renovation, OR construct a new facility, OR expand an existing facility, OR acquire a facility that has been idle (minimum period of idleness depends on average number of employees). Note: if the applicant is leasing this qualifying facility, the lease must be for at least five years with the option at that point to either 1) renew the lease for an aggregate term of not less than 10 years or 2) buy the facility. If the business averages fewer than 10 employees, those requirements may be reduced to aggregate leases of not less than six years or the option to purchase after three years. Statutory Reference CGS Sec. 32-80. How to Apply For businesses seeking tax incentives and other benefits: Across all cities and towns that are approved by the DECD to participate in the Enterprise Zone program: Step One Before starting any project, the business must first submit a formal request through the local economic development office of the municipality in order to obtain a Preliminary Questionnaire. If pre-qualified, the business would receive from the DECD a formal application and an invitation to apply. Step Two The business submits a complete application with required documentation to the DECD prior to October 1 of the year in which the project will be completed. If approved, DECD would issue a Certificate of Eligibility. Contacts To view the designated municipal Enterprise Zone coordinators for this zone type, please refer to the Contact section.