Ron Goodin, BOMA Greater Hartford

We’ve moved into my favorite time of the year, fall in New England. The kids are back to school, the weather usually gets cool and crisp, football season begins and overall things return to something like “normal.” As we all know, the “new normal” is anything but.

I have a tendency to get a little nostalgic when I write my articles. Were things really that much better when we were young? I honestly don’t know how our kids keep up with today’s information bombardment – don’t their thumbs get tired? The same holds true for today’s work environment. There’s less time, less staff and greater expectations, which, again, is the new norm. As we all come back from summer vacations, remember to thank your staff for holding down the fort in your absence.

Buildings and their systems are working harder these days too, often in ways different than their original purpose. Evidence to that fact, Hartford is seeing a vibrant renaissance and vacant buildings, including the Colt Armory, the vacant hotel at Constitution Plaza and 777 Main St. are coming back online. I had almost forgotten how construction can affect one’s daily life. It can be annoying, but a successful city always has cranes in the air. Although it may not change the skyline, the nights are now aglow with occupants and much needed activity.

Last month, BOMA members and their guests toured the 777 Main St. project with developer Bruce Becker and were treated with amazing 360 degree views of our fine capital city. BOMA will host another tour October 1st, with the recent additions to the successful Front Street Development.

On October 15^th, we will celebrate our long time BOMA members and our recognition of Member of the Year, Allied Honoree of the Year, Corporation of the Year and Engineer of the Year at our honoree dinner. Special guests include Josh Solomon, the owner  and Tim Restall, general manager of the new Hartford baseball team, the Yard Goats.

Please review items on our web page and continue to support your Hartford BOMA organization. It’s been a great year so far!

Ron Goodin is the president of BOMA Greater Hartford, and is with Fletcher Thompson Architects, Hartford, Conn.