Amazon is opening a new distribution center in Stratford, according to the town’s mayor.
In a post on Facebook, Mayor Laura R. Hoydick said the company has entered into a seven year lease at 500 and 600 Long Beach Boulevard. The center is set to open January 1, 2020. Amazon is looking to hire for the new facility, including positions as shift managers, warehouse associates and warehouse team members.
“We are pleased to be welcoming Amazon to Stratford,” wrote Mayor Laura R. Hoydick. “Stratford is an ideal location for this new distribution center for Amazon. We have great transportation access as well as a terrific skilled labor force ready to take on the jobs Amazon is looking to fill as they get closer to their opening.”
The facility will include two spaces – one 78,000-square-feet and another 117,000-square feet - of warehouse and office space.
“It comes as no surprise that a company like Amazon would lease over 200,000 square feet in Stratford,” said James Caissy, President of the Stratford Development Corporation that built the high-ceiling distribution facilities where Amazon will be locating. “The Lordship Boulevard area of Stratford provides easy access to I-95, Route 25 and Route 8 for delivery to both Fairfield and New Haven counties. We expect to see this trend continue.”
People in Stratford are excited that two giant warehouses will be home to the newest distribution center in the state for Amazon.
“It’s a good thing. Any more revenue coming into Stratford is definitely going to help,” Ian Wahlberg, of Stratford, said.
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“I’m psyched. It’s wonderful news. It’s great that a company like Amazon recognizes Stratford as a place they want to be and the first one in Fairfield County,” Hoydick said.
Amazon starting pay is $15 an hour and benefits, include healthcare, 401k matching and tuition coverage.
“These are good jobs and these are jobs that will help grow our community,” said Hoydick.
Besides Stratford, Amazon already runs a fulfillment center in Windsor and opened a second one in North Haven in July.
The North Haven facility will ultimately employ 1,800 people.
With Stratford close to highways and an airport, the mayor hopes other distribution centers will follow Amazon’s decision.
“We have a couple of things in the works right now, so there may be more announced down the line,” said Hoydick.
The mayor believes another benefit is the potential tax money Amazon will pay the town.
While Amazon confirmed its plans, it did not provide any more information including about its timeline and details about the jobs that would be created.
To browse some of the available jobs, click here.
