The Results of Stafford's Main Street Assessment

When the Stafford Economic Development Commission (EDC) joined the Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC), one benefit was an assessment of its Main Street and downtown area. At the December 9, 2025, EDC meeting, Carl Rosa, the CMSC Field Director, presented the results of his assessment.

The town scored a “Satisfactory” 66% overall based on four main categories:

• Economic Vitality - 59%

• Design - 75%

• Organization - 60%

• Promotion - 72%

Rosa said it’s a “really good score in my book,” pointing out that this is a good starting point. He highlighted Main Street’s aesthetics, including the colorful, seasonal window displays in the storefronts, when discussing the high design score. He also noted that the sidewalks are in good condition, the fruit tree trial in Haymarket Common, and the building facades are in good condition. 

The report also made recommendations for what the EDC should focus on in the coming months:

1. Establish a strategic plan - Decide on goals and the tasks and steps needed to get there

2. Establish a management model - Whether it’s an individual or a committee, the buck has to stop somewhere

3. Track and promote impact data - Tracking everything from volunteer hours to jobs created can help bolster grant applications

Speaking of grant opportunities, Rosa said that establishing a 501(c)(3) to manage Main Street could be a good way to access additional funding.