Darien Pauses Multifamily Housing Projects

0:00It's March 20th and Harford, let's get into the news. Darien's Planning and Zoning Commission plans a public hearing on Tuesday, March 24th to consider a one-year pause on new multi-family housing projects with more than 24 units. This move comes amid a surge and apartment construction in the town, as officials work to catch their breath and review impacts. Since 2023, three apartment buildings totaling 225 units have wrapped up, while five more projects adding three. 136 units are still under construction. That's a lot of change in a short time for the community. Meanwhile, the commission started updating its 2016 conservation and development plan back in 2024, aiming to finish by this fall or summer. They also point to a new state law, House Bill 8,0002, passed in November 2025, which pushes towns to update zoning for more. Starting options like middle housing with two to nine units. The moratorium will let officials study these changes and line them up with the state

1:02requirements and the updated town plan. It wouldn't affect projects already covered by state affordable housing rules or the new bill. If the commission approves it after the hearing, they'll set the start date, giving Darien time to plan ahead without halting everything.