High Ridge Renovation Nears Completion

George Comfort & Sons of New York City, the owner of the six-building complex, reports that the completed renovations involved architectural enhancements as well as some new amenities that include a new facade, lobby renovation and new windows in 4 and 5 High Ridge Park; and the renovation of the plaza in 6 High Ridge Park. It also includes elevator cab modernization in three buildings, a new conference center, a Bright Horizons child care center that will open in August, an art gallery, a car detailing facility and a full-service cafeteria.

Stephen Baker of Cushman & Wakefield of Connecticut Inc., the exclusive broker for the property along with C&W's Adam Klimek, says that some lease deals are in the pipeline. "We have a couple of things we are working on and I hope to announce them within the next four to six weeks."

At present, there is 180,000 sf of space available at 6 High Ridge Park; 50,000 sf of space at 5 High Ridge Park and 45,000 sf of space available at 4 High Ridge Park. Citizens Communications Co. is the largest tenant at the 40-acre property, leasing more than 100,000 sf of space.

Company officials did not divulge a specific cost figure for the renovation program. The company acquired the property in partnership with Angelo Gordon's Core Plus Fund in 2003.

Last week, Esselte Corp. signed a five-year lease for 5,614 sf of space at 5 High Ridge Park. The office supplies firm will be shifting its executive offices from 44 Commerce Dr. in Stamford to the second floor of 5 High Ridge Park. In an earlier deal, TNS, a market information company, signed a lease for 28,000 sf of space at 5 High Ridge Park. The firm is expected to relocate from Greenwich to the property this summer.