Hartford: Achieving the Energy of a Vibrant College Town
/by David Griggs
While Hartford hosts the state capital and serves as the hub of the global insurance industry, our capital city also has the energy of a vibrant college town. Home to several esteemed higher education institutions, Hartford’s culture, economy, and daily life are deeply shaped by its colleges and universities.
Trinity College is one of the nation's oldest liberal arts colleges and continuously contributes to a lively intellectual atmosphere, offering public lectures and events enjoyed by the wider community.
Just a few miles away, the University of Hartford attracts a diverse student body with programs ranging from fine arts to engineering. Its renowned Hartt School enriches Hartford's cultural life with world-class performances in music, dance, and theater. Downtown, Capital Community College plays a vital role in providing accessible education and professional development, drawing local students and adding to the city's vibrancy.
“Both universities’ expansions demonstrate a shared commitment to supporting student life while contributing to Hartford’s growing vitality.”
These institutions infuse Hartford with youthful energy and diversity. Students, faculty, and staff bolster the local economy, supporting businesses that cater to their needs. Academic and cultural events unite the community and enhance the city's intellectual atmosphere. Strong partnerships between colleges and local organizations in fields like healthcare, law, and engineering further integrate the academic and professional communities, solidifying Hartford's status as a dynamic college town.
Adding to the energy, new student housing developments are coming to downtown Hartford, offering more living options for students from the University of Saint Joseph and the University of Connecticut. The University of Saint Joseph has partnered with Millennium Apartments to provide housing for upper-level and graduate students in the city's heart. This initiative addresses increased enrollment and brings students closer to career opportunities, with easy access to public transportation and the West Hartford campus.
Meanwhile, UConn plans new student housing at 242 Trumbull Street. Travelers recently announced a $500,000 donation to support affordable room and board, allowing more UConn students to access new residence options. This $28 million project includes 50 suites for 200 students, transforming an office annex with a spacious atrium designed for student amenities and gatherings.
Travelers’ involvement reflects a longstanding partnership with UConn and their shared commitment to Hartford’s development, furthering opportunities like Travelers EDGE, a school-to-career pipeline program established 17 years ago. The new residence hall, located near Pratt Street with its pedestrian-friendly environment, lively restaurants, and shops is expected to open by 2026, helping to create stronger connections between students and Hartford’s rich cultural, historical, and economic life.
These projects are significant steps toward making Hartford feel even more like a college town, enriching the downtown area and fostering links between students and the city.
To help make Hartford even more student-friendly, the Hartford Chamber of Commerce recently introduced College Kickbacks, an initiative that offers students from any Connecticut-based college or university exclusive discounts at over 40 participating Hartford businesses. From restaurants and cafes to retail stores and entertainment venues, students can enjoy savings by showing their student ID. This program not only highlights Hartford's status as a college town but also welcomes students into the community while supporting local businesses.
Our city thrives as a vibrant community, heavily influenced by its colleges and universities. These institutions are at the heart of our city, shaping its identity, culture, and economy. Hartford benefits from the academic and artistic contributions of its colleges, from lectures and performances to exhibitions, creating a lively and intellectually stimulating environment. The MetroHartford Alliance is proud to play a key role in supporting these colleges and universities, strengthening local talent development so our region’s employers can connect with skilled professionals. Together, we create a mutually beneficial relationship where education, business, and community flourish.
David Griggs is President and CEO of the MetroHartford Alliance. This originally appeared in the newsletter of the MetroHartford Alliance in November 2024.
