The Town of Essex has announced ambitious plans to transform the former Harrow High School property into a vibrant 160-unit residential community that promises to reshape the local housing landscape.
A Vision for Harrow's Future
At a news conference held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy revealed that Windsor-based Horizons Group has been selected to redevelop the closed school property through a competitive request-for-proposal process. Standing before the historic school building, Mayor Bondy emphasized that this project represents much more than just new housing construction.
"This redevelopment is more than just about new housing, it's about creating a thriving, inclusive space that reflects the future we envision for Harrow," Mayor Bondy stated. "One that provides alternative housing choices for various age groups, incomes, households, and household sizes, encouraging our residents to remain in Harrow throughout different stages of their life, while also welcoming new residents to our community."
Development Details and Timeline
The comprehensive development plan calls for 160 mixed residential units spread across six buildings, featuring a combination of condominiums, townhouses, and attainable housing options. The project will include two six-storey apartment buildings alongside other residential structures.
Wing On Li, CEO of Horizons Group, outlined the three-phase development approach. The first stage will focus on stacked townhomes and six-plexes that can be constructed quickly, followed by the two six-storey apartment buildings in subsequent phases. The entire project is expected to be completed within three years, pending necessary approvals.
The development will occupy the 3.4-acre footprint of the former school building at 45 Wellington Street, while the surrounding green space on the 13.6-acre property will be preserved for community use.
Sustainability and Community Features
Sustainability stands as a cornerstone of the development plan. Horizons Group is exploring the installation of a geothermal exchange unit complemented by solar panels, along with electric vehicle charging stations throughout the property.
"We try to make sure that we cut the carbon footprint of the new development as much as possible," explained On Li, noting that these features will also help reduce energy costs for future residents.
The development will retain approximately 7,000 square feet for resident amenities, with potential community access and heritage recognition honoring the school's alumni. The company has committed to holding an open house to gather community feedback and remains open to making financially feasible adjustments based on public input.
With the town preparing to rezone the property to expedite progress, On Li expressed enthusiasm about moving forward quickly. "We are fast movers. As long as I can get the pending approval, the building approval from the town, from the county, I'm willing to start early."
This transformative project marks what Mayor Bondy described as "a major milestone for the Harrow community," signaling a new chapter in the town's development while preserving elements of its educational heritage.
