By Mary Goldmeer
Mail

After years of planning, investment and community input, Litchfield Square is taking shape. Mayor Thomas Schoaf provided an update on the project at the State of the City meeting, outlining its progress, challenges and future plans.

“Our goal is to enhance the city of Litchfield Park by preserving the uniqueness of our community,” Schoaf said. “As we look at changes and as we look at development … we try to make sure that that change will not hurt the character of our neighborhoods.”

The concept of a downtown hub for Litchfield Park dates back to 1994, when the City Council adopted the Village Center Plan. Between 1994 and 2007, the city worked to acquire the land needed for what would become Litchfield Square.

From 2018 to 2021, city officials met with residents and community groups to ensure the project aligned with community interests. From 2021 to 2025, the city focused on infrastructure, laying the groundwork for the future downtown district.

Unlike many developments that rely on major retail anchors to draw visitors, Litchfield Square’s central feature is its park.

“For us, our anchor is the park,” Schoaf said.

The city has invested $40 million into the project, exceeding initial budget estimates due to timing and market conditions. However, Schoaf reassured residents that the city’s financial stability remains intact.

“We will still have a capital program, we’ll still maintain our streets, we’ll still have our fire and our police, so everything that’s important to your normal lifestyle is not going to be impacted,” he said.

Schoaf also noted that even if no further construction occurred at Litchfield Square, the city’s budget and quality of life would not be compromised.
The first building, developed by Heritage Partners, is expected to break ground in early May. The mixed-use space will include two restaurants, office space and retail.

A second building, anticipated to begin construction by October, will also be a mixed-use commercial space.

Looking ahead, a third planned building will be three stories, with retail and restaurants on the first floor and condominiums on the upper levels.

Construction is expected to begin before 2026.

“(It) is a really good start. It’s about half of what will end up eventually there … we’re anticipating significant interest in the other parcels for the finishing pieces,” Schoaf said.

As construction continues, Litchfield Square is expected to become a focal point of Litchfield Park, blending modern development with the city’s historic character.

Visit litchfieldpark.gov for more information.