Replacing a decades-old, 64-unit complex, the newly redeveloped $65 million community expands quality housing capacity in the capital city. The reimagined site features 70 one-bedroom apartment homes, 63 two-bedroom townhouses, and 22 three-bedroom townhouses serving households earning between 30% and 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Situated near Colt Park and Trinity Health Stadium, the development bridges historic neighborhood character with modern residential design, offering residents direct access to downtown Hartford, public transit, employment hubs, and the scenic Connecticut Riverfront.
A Vision for Sustainable Neighborhood Revitalization
MLK Apartments represents a major physical and social transformation for the neighborhood. Following extensive site remediation and planning, the new construction incorporates pedestrian-friendly internal streets, enhanced green spaces, gated entry, off-street parking, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Resident amenities include a fully equipped fitness center, modern community rooms, and outdoor gathering areas.
“MLK Apartments represents an important milestone in the continued revitalization of the Sheldon/Charter Oak neighborhood,” said Aaron Greenblatt, Managing Principal and Counsel of Vesta Corporation. “This redevelopment reflects years of partnership, investment, and a shared vision for the future. We are proud to work alongside Sheldon Oak Central and our public and private partners to help ensure Hartford residents have access to high-quality housing for generations to come.”
“Seeing this community fully realized is a proud moment for the neighborhood,” added John Maziarz, President of the Board of Directors for Sheldon Oak Central. “MLK Apartments represents new opportunity, renewed investment, and the continued commitment to ensuring families and long-time residents have access to quality affordable housing in the community they call home.”
Leadership Reflections on Community Impact
State and local leaders gathered at the ribbon-cutting ceremony to highlight the role of public-private partnerships in addressing Connecticut’s affordable housing needs:
“This is almost going back to the way Samuel Colt originally designed this neighborhood—building townhouses with green spaces that say this is not just a roof over your head, but a place you can truly call home. This development fits seamlessly into the historic fabric of Hartford while expanding opportunity for working families.”
— Ned Lamont, Governor of Connecticut
“When we talk about creating affordable housing, the goal is to build spaces that offer dignity, modern quality, and deep financial stability. The MLK Apartments are a prime example of state and local resources coming together to deliver genuine, lasting affordability for Hartford residents.”
— Seila Mosquera-Bruno, Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Housing
“The transformation of 85 Van Block Avenue is a testament to what happens when community-driven vision meets dedicated development expertise. Projects like The MLK Apartments strengthen our neighborhoods, keep our families rooted in Hartford, and build a vibrant future for our city.”
— Arunan Arulampalam, Mayor of Hartford
Collaborative Capital & Public Partnerships
The multi-year redevelopment was made possible through financing and subsidy partnerships across federal, state, and local entities, including: Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA), Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH), Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), National Equity Fund (NEF), and Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).
For more coverage on the event, visit www.wtnh.com/news/connecticut/hartford/new-mlk-apartments-open-in-hartfords-sheldon-center-oak-neighborhood/.
Author: Jaime Larkin
Brand Coordinator for Vesta