CREW Blue Ribbon Awards Program Book 2022

The Windward – Phase 1 Bridgeport, CT

The Windward is a multi-phase redevelopment of Marina Village, one of Connecticut’s earliest public housings projects affected by superstorms Sandy and Irene. Constructed 1939-40 under the Housing Act of ‘37, the barrack-style buildings reflected the design criteria of the Public Works Administration: low scale, brick buildings with flat roofs arranged around open areas and community buildings. The redevelopment project was made possible through the public-private partnership of the Bridgeport Housing Authority and JHM Group of Companies, and provides healthy, energy-efficient housing for returning Marina Village and mixed income residents. The site has been designed alongside the Resilient Bridgeport project. Located just outside the 100-year flood plain, this project incorporated resilient design solutions that respond to climate challenges. The grade was increased and the first floor was constructed above the floodplain in the event the projections are exceeded. The green space and parking area at the southeast portion of the site pitches toward the Sound, and the drainage of walkways and roads were also guided by the Resiliency plan. Phase 1 is comprised of a four-story corner building that fronts Park Avenue, and three smaller-scale residential buildings that face Johnson Street and balance the residential character of the neighborhood. The first floor is occupied by Southwest Community Health Center and the community room, fitness center, and apartments are on the upper floors. Prior to the 1940s, the site was occupied by an iron foundry consisting of numerous brick mill buildings that served as a buffer between the railroad and the residential housing to the south. The redevelopment responds to its surroundings and represents how the site was used historically by following historic master planning concepts like locating the parking lot and first floor commercial along the railroad and highway and utilizing traditional buildings materials like brick. The high-performing homes meet Energy Star v3.1, Indoor airPLUS and LEED for Homes Gold requirements, and utilize efficient systems that integrate air sealing measures to improve indoor air quality, and reduce resource consumption, which reduces utility bills. For residents living below the state median income, such savings make this housing truly affordable. Owner : Winward Developments Associates c/o JHM Group of Companies Size : 4 buildings, 54 dwelling units – 7,175 sf commercial space Project Team: Crosskey Architects, Fuss & O'Neil, James K Grant Associates, Acorn Consulting, Inc.

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