Visions for Vacancies: 13 Acres Behind Planet Fitness

You've probably driven by this parcel of land recently, though unknowingly, as it is very much hidden from view. Within the parking lot of on Bridgeport Avenue, a stone and dirt path leads to an overgrown open field -- an area of 13 acres that could be developed into a rental housing project within the next few years.

, attorney Dominick Thomas and developers Talbot Partners LLC presented a concept plan for the construction of a $30 million, 248-unit residential apartment complex on that lot. While Planning & Zoning commissioners seemed to take interest in the idea, some city residents and Patch readers are less than enthusiastic, predicting that such a building would bring more traffic to the already busy Bridgeport Avenue area.

Discussions about construction have thus far been informal, but if Talbot Partners does decide to submit an application to PZC, they will have to call upon the State Traffic Commission and the Department of Transportation to review the plans, ensure they are not causing any traffic-related issues and give approval.

Thomas said a residential development, even at this size, does not typically bring in the kind of "peak traffics" that come with a commercial or retail development.

Taking that into account, and judging from the pictures of the land in question, what do you think it could be best used for?