Priority Neighborhoods
With hundreds of underused properties across the city, the New Haven Land Bank (NHLB) takes a data-driven approach to focus its efforts where they’ll have the most impact.
Using an Impact Assessment Framework, NHLB evaluates neighborhoods based on foreclosure rates, vacancies, rent affordability, city-owned property, and sales trends. Each factor is equally weighted to identify areas most in need of reinvestment.
From this analysis, six high-priority neighborhoods emerged: Newhallville, The Hill, Dixwell, Fair Haven, Dwight, and West River. These areas face overlapping challenges but also present strong opportunities to improve neighborhood conditions, support affordable housing, and activate underutilized land.
By combining data insights with local partnerships, NHLB is helping to reactivate communities—and creating a model for equitable development that grows from the neighborhood up.
Tier 1
Properties
Properties
Tier 1 properties are the highest acquisition priorities for the New Haven Land Bank, selected for their strong potential to drive visible, positive transformation in key neighborhoods and corridors. These properties include:
- Highly visible and currently underutilized sites
- Residential buildings located within or adjacent to commercial districts
- Parcels well-positioned for mixed-use, affordable, or community-centered development
The Land Bank is especially focused on properties along major corridors such as:
- Dixwell Avenue
- Whalley Avenue
- Sherman Avenue
- Grand Avenue
- Ella Grasso Boulevard
These areas are vital connectors within the city, often located near public transportation, small businesses, and community institutions. Acquiring and redeveloping properties in these locations supports neighborhood vitality, enhances the streetscape, and encourages inclusive economic growth.
Through strategic Tier 1 acquisitions, the Land Bank is committed to promoting high-impact redevelopment that aligns with community needs and long-term planning goals.
