Economic Development

Introduction

The economy of Plymouth is a rich, diverse mixture of traditional discrete-parts manufacturing, professional, commercial, retail and contract services, as well as, a small agricultural component. The town has a proud history of invention and innovation dating back nearly 200 years to Eli Terry's clockworks and the Eagle Lock Company.

From the early days of the Industrial Revolution powered by waterwheels and steam engines to the post-modern, technology-driven economy of the Information Age, the town draws its economic strength from the technical skills, dedication and work ethic of its people. Plymouth has embarked on several programs designed to encourage private investment, expand its industrial base, and provide a superior educational system to prepare its citizens for the technological challenges of the 21st century.

In recognition of local history, the Town sponsored preparation of the nomination for the Plymouth Center Historic District to the National Register of Historic Places.   Following a recommendation by the Connecticut Historic Preservation Board, formal designation by the U.S. Department of Interior occurred on July 22, 1999.  The Plymouth Center district, as formally amended on December 7, 2000, contains 126 contributing sites and structures, including homesteads of the Town's early industrial entrepreneurs who were instrumental in the emergence of the clock and lock industries in the colonial United States.

Additionally, the town sponsored the nomination of the Terryville Waterwheel (pictured on the front page) for inclusion in the National Register.  This wheel is one of the last remaining vestiges of Plymouth's industrial past.  It powered the Lewis Lock Company, forerunner of the Eagle Lock Company. It was formally listed on the Register effective January 4, 2002.  

Business Park Expansion

Plymouth has been dedicated to promoting economic growth in the manufacturing sector since the inception of the Plymouth Business Park in 1973. All available parcels in the first two phases of the Business Park are occupied.  The Phase III expansion has added 23 new development sites to the Park, ranging in area from 1.5 to 5 acres each, capable of being combined and suitable for various sized facilities from approx. 5,000 to 50,000 sq. ft. of floor space. (See map of Phase III Expansion, Plymouth Business Park). The Business Park is zoned for general manufacturing with office uses allowed by special permit. All utilities are at the curb and improved access is available to Rte. 72 along Preston Road.

The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development approved the project plan in June 1999 and through the State Bond Commission granted the Town of Plymouth $1,825,000 toward its completion.  The Economic Development Administration (EDA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce is also contributing a grant of $1.1 million for the Phase III development.  The Maguire Group is the Commission's design/engineering consultant.  Richards Corporation of Terryville was the contractor responsible for the installation of all project infrastructure. 

Key Contacts

Town of Plymouth
Mayor's Office 860-585-4001
Land Use 860-585-4043
Economic Development Commission 860-585-4043
For current information, contact Margus Laan, Town Planner, 860-585-4044, mlaan@plymouthct.us

Economic Development Commissioners

Seth Duke, Chairman

Robert Green

Lauren Howard

Jordan Kuczenski

Jeffrey Scott

Town Council Liaison:  Remie Ferreira