We, the undersigned, call on our state and local leaders to protect New Haven’s waterfront and ensure that the former Gateway property on Long Wharf is used for the greatest public benefit. 

The State of Connecticut is in the process of transferring the highly valuable Long Wharf property—previously home to Gateway Community College—to the City of New Haven for $1. The City now proposes selling this $15 million property to the APT Foundation for the purpose of constructing a large-scale methadone clinic.  The process appears to deviate from standard city guidelines and established financial protocols. This lack of transparency and the potential for favoritism toward a private entity are of serious concern.

We believe this is a misuse of one of New Haven’s most promising economic and community assets. We are deeply concerned that:

No public support or testimony was provided by the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities System or Southern Connecticut State University during the legislative process to justify this conveyance or the proposed sale to APT Foundation.

This prime waterfront property should be reserved for economic revitalization, job creation, housing, recreation, and public amenities—not for a use that could undermine community development and investment.

The decision to sell this land to a private not for profit, without broad public input or consideration of better alternatives, fails to serve the interests of New Haven residents and the people of Connecticut.

We respectfully urge you to:

1. Halt the sale of the Long Wharf property to the APT Foundation. 

2. Reconsider the highest and best use of this land, with full public input, prioritizing economic development, housing, recreation, and waterfront access.

3. Ensure that any future decisions about this property are made transparently and in the best interests of New Haven and the State of Connecticut.

We call on Governor Lamont, President Maduko, and the New Haven Board of Alders to listen to the voices of residents and stakeholders across New Haven and Connecticut. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of our city and our waterfront—let’s not squander it.