By Janice Sina
(July 3, 2025) — It was the dog biscuits that caught my eye. From the moment I stepped into the office of Michelle Parmelee, Community Manager at Blueway Commons, I knew this was a welcoming community. Likewise, when I was greeted by a friendly pup named Major as I stepped into the home of Megan and Chris at Bridge Road Commons. Okay, not everyone loves dogs, but there’s more to love about these new apartment communities beyond the pet perks.
These two communities, located in the Tylerville section of town, are relatively new in Haddam. So far, they have not only been successful in blending seamlessly with Haddam’s small-town feel, they’ve also provided a vital housing resource for new residents, from young professionals to families just starting out to empty-nesters looking to downsize.
The ribbon cutting ceremony for Phase II of Blueway Commons was held on June 24, 2025, a sweltering day made comfortable inside the clubhouse with plenty of water, sandwiches, and a celebratory cake.
The speeches were no less refreshing. Paul Brody, emcee of the event said, “A vision without action steps is a dream. Action without a vision is a nightmare,” and went on to introduce and honor those who made the vision of Blueway Commons a successful reality.
It all began with Jeff Hartmann, CEO of Elm Tree Communities (photo above, right, with Paul Brody) who was intent on addressing the critical housing shortage in Connecticut. Groundbreaking for Phase I began in December 2021 at the height of the pandemic, a challenging environment for a residential project of this scope. Jeff wanted to build a community that had a sense of place, “not just where people lived, but where they would call Home.” He did this through state of the art technology, good design elements, modern amenities, and places for reflection, recreation, and connection. Phase I units were filled by March 2023, and currently Phase II units are filling fast.
Blueway Commons and Bridge Road Commons are nestled along the Connecticut River, surrounded by greenery and close to hiking trails, restaurants, the arts, charming farmers markets and many small town conveniences. Access to Route 9 makes an easy commute north to Middletown and Hartford, and south to the shoreline and New Haven areas. And though roadway construction has been ongoing, the end is in sight and travel will be more efficient, especially in the busy summer months.
As Hartmann described, bringing Blueway Commons from vision to reality required a village of supporters. Chris Cambareri, Director of Economic Development for the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, said how vitally important these residences are in our community; and State Representative Renee LaMark Muir, who is committed to addressing the housing issues in Connecticut, concurs. “Housing is directly tied to the economy,” she said, “and communities like this are examples of how we can respond successfully to the housing needs of our families, friends and neighbors.” Associated Construction, contracted for Blueway Commons, is another key piece in the success of the project. Kevin O’Connell, a principal owner of Associated Construction said, “One of the greatest privileges as a builder is to find like-minded individuals who share your same values, standards, and commitment to excellence. It was a privilege to share the vision.”
But probably the best testament to the success of these communities comes from the residents themselves. Sandy and Butch, both retired schoolteachers, shared their thoughts. Living in Florida for forty years and then moving to the area to be near family, they eventually downsized to a unit in Blueway Commons. “It’s close to family, and that’s the big thing,” says Sandy. “When we were looking for apartments, this one struck us because of [the community feel.]”
Hannah and Austin, a young working couple agreed. They both work an easy commute to the Hartford and Branford areas. “The units are beautiful. We looked at other places, then found this place and felt it was right.” And they’re probably among the first to walk to East Haddam via the new bridge sidewalk. Megan and Chris were the third residents to move in to Bridge Road Commons back in July of 2024. From Guilford and just outside Newport, Rhode Island, respectively, they both appreciate the relative quiet of Haddam and have explored neighboring towns. Chris likes to fish and likes that the river is close by. Also, while many residents have family within driving distance, some have come from as far away as Colorado and as culturally distant as Manhattan. Michelle Parmelee says their Manhattan resident moved here with no family in the area and has loved exploring. “She feels grateful to be here.”
A number of guests at the Blueway Commons ribbon-cutting ceremony braved the 90 degree heat to watch First Selectman Robert McGarry and Jeff Hartmann wield giant scissors (photo above, with Marisa Hartmann, right) to cut a bright blue ribbon, marking the official opening of Phase II and more opportunities for new residents to call Haddam home. Shifting population demographics have raised concerns about flexibility in housing options, decreasing school enrollment, and yet still maintaining a community feel. Blueway Commons and Bridge Road Commons communities both offer solutions to these shifting needs and are welcome additions to town. As Lauren Wheeler, Regional Property Manager of Trio Properties said at the ceremony, “Haddam has a charm and warmth you just can’t beat.”
Photos by Janice Sina
