New $105 million mixed-use development potentially coming to Westfield

At the most recent city council meeting, a proposal for a new mixed-use development was introduced called 32 Jersey. Rivet Coffee sits along Jersey Street between Mill and Poplar downtown, across the street from the proposed project site.

“We bought here initially with the expectation that there was going to be growth in Westfield,” said owner Allie Commons.

With the $105 million space bringing apartments, retail, restaurants and more – growth is exactly what they’re getting.

“As a business owner, small business owner, we’re excited for the potential foot traffic,” said Commons.

The city has already acquired all of the homes in the stretch of Jersey Street where the building would go. Around the corner from the site is Something Splendid, another business looking forward to what’s to come, like additional parking.

“That is a big complaint to us, and even as our guests who come in, ‘Where should I park? I don’t come because there’s no parking,’ so that is a sigh of relief for us and something we’re super excited about,” said Erynn Petruzzi, one of the owners of the gift shop and wine bar.

However, the shop is already surrounded by ongoing construction projects.

“I understand why there’s mixed opinions,” said Petruzzi. “A lot of construction, a lot is going on.”

City leaders are regularly meeting with the businesses about what they can expect, but said it’s too soon for a set timeline.

“How long is this going to take? When are you estimating that you’re going to open? How long is this projected to be in a jumble?” said Commons.

The shops in the area just ask for continued support, even once the development blocks things off.

“As a small business owner, and I’m sure I could speak on behalf of everyone. Yes, we really, really want people to know that we’re still open and we’re still doing our best to serve people during this construction,” said Commons.

City council is expected to vote on the proposal at their August meeting. The Advisory Plan Committee has a public meeting coming up on June 2 to learn more about the project.