WEST HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — A long vacant space on Connecticut’s coastline has potential for new life.
Vacant West Haven building back up for bid after brewery plans fall through West Haven Mayor Dorinda Borer is endorsing a restaurant group to take over the former Savin Rock Conference Center. Their proposal was approved by city council Tuesday.
“A jewel that needs to be polished,” Borer said.
The former name is still on display, backdropped by deteriorating walls and broken windows. The inside, that has mold, hasn’t seen life since 2017.
“It had been years ago a successful restaurant,” Borer said. “It had been in it’s next chapters a successful venue.”
A new proposal by RTR Hospitality aims to restore the space to its former glory. The experienced restaurant group plan to remodel the space into a restaurant and banquet hall with rooftop dining.
“Experience in bringing a project like this, your financial capacity and your commitment to local jobs and there were a couple of key components in the lease that I know the residents were looking for like what the monthly revenue would be, no cap on taxes,” Borer said.
Earlier this year, the city approved a 20 year lease for the New England Brewing Company but Borer said it fell through after numerous appeals from neighboring restaurant Jimmies of Savin Rock.
West Haven Fire Department to get mobile rehab unit Borer assures this agreement will be different.
“Tried to plug as many loopholes as possible prior to entering into the partnership but also what’s different with this project is they are using the existing footprint,” Borer said.
Borer said this project located right along Savin Rock Beach will bring thousands to West Haven, revitalizing the area.
“It’s going to be a revenue driver,” Borer said.
Long-time residents, like Paul Bronson, are excited for the economic benefits and to try the restaurant out.
“Change this dilapidated building and walk by it almost every other day and it’ll be nice for the change,” Bronson said. “I think it’s going to energize people. It’s going to bring people from all over. I’ll be one of the ones waiting in line when they open the doors.”
News 8 did reach out to Jimmies for their response, but they were not immediately available.
After additional approvals from City Council and Planning and Zoning, the Mayor said The Kelsey is expected to open May 2026.
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