Business Leaders Drive Capital City Vision

More than a dozen corporate, city, state, and regional leaders have aligned their efforts to explore a long-term, unified vision for the city of Hartford’s future. 

Chairman and CEO of The Hartford, Christopher Swift, unveiled a new committee to advance initiatives to transform Hartford Nov. 20.

He said the committee will work with a range of stakeholders on a plan that could serve as a north star to make the city a more vibrant business, residential, and cultural destination. 

‘A Galvanizing Moment’

“Connecticut’s capital city is at a crucial point in its history, marked by significant challenges and opportunities,” Swift said.

“This is a galvanizing moment to bring together leaders from the business community to collaborate with public and nonprofit sectors on a path forward.”  

The Hartford has called the city home since 1810.

Swift said the effort also builds on the company’s tradition of volunteerism, support, and dedication to improve quality of life and vibrancy.

Swift’s vision committee is comprised of leaders from the cities of Hartford and East Hartford, Stanley Black & Decker, Hartford Steam Boiler, RTX, The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts, Nassau Financial Group, Hartford HealthCare, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, Aetna, the Capital Region Development Authority, Travelers, and The Hartford. 

“This is a galvanizing moment to bring together leaders from the business community to collaborate with public and nonprofit sectors on a path forward.”

The Hartford’s Chris Swift

“The future of Hartford hinges on our ability to work collaboratively and harness the immense talent and resources we have right here in our capital city,” said Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam.  

“I’m grateful to Chris Swift and The Hartford for bringing together corporate, local and city leaders to build on our existing momentum and create a joint vision for the future of Hartford.” 

The mayor said he looks forward to working with a national strategy firm and local advisory group “to ensure this process is inclusive and reflects the hopes of everyone in our community.” 

Revitalization Strategy

The Vision Committee hired Streetsense, a national design-and-strategy firm, to create an actionable, investment-ready vision for Hartford.

The firm’s first priority will be to create a vision advisory council with a diverse group of business leaders, civic leaders, developers, major institutions, and community organizations.  

The process will include discussion and analysis of current conditions, Hartford’s economic competitiveness, cultural identity, livability, and connected infrastructure. 

“A healthy capital city is essential to a healthy state,” Hartford HealthCare president and CEO Jeffrey Flaks said.

“Across the country, the most successful states are anchored by vibrant, thriving capitals–and Hartford has every asset to be just that.” 

Hartford HealthCare’s Jeffrey Flaks

“Across the country, the most successful states are anchored by vibrant, thriving capitals–and Hartford has every asset to be just that.” 

“I’m proud to stand with fellow leaders in this effort to create a stronger, more inclusive capital city for generations to come,” Flaks added. 

“This kind of thoughtful, coordinated planning is exactly what Hartford has needed – the kind that depends on true corporate commitment,” Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts president and CEO David Fay said. 

The vision committee aims to formulate a plan for the city by late spring.