Shelton Sports Bar on the Path to Expansion

Shelton, Connecticut has long been a vibrant hub of community activities, and with the recent endeavors of local entrepreneurs, it continues to grow and evolve. The owners of Double J’s, a popular sports bar located on Coram Avenue, are set to redefine their business and its premises.

Double J’s: From Humble Beginnings to Ambitious Plans

Joseph Joyce, Jr., together with his father, Joe Sr., has embarked on an exciting new chapter for their family-run business. Having opened Double J’s in the space previously occupied by the well-loved Anna’s Place, the Joyces are eyeing a significant expansion of their property on Coram Avenue.

Expansion Plans in Motion

In a strong move to enhance the bar’s footprint, Joseph Joyce, Jr. has submitted an application to the Planning and Zoning Commission. The proposal seeks to add two additional floors to the existing one-story structure, effectively tripling its size. This development, if approved, would introduce new opportunities for the budding establishment.

The application was formally introduced at the commission’s meeting on November 13th, where it was decided that a public hearing is necessary to explore the details further and gather community input.

Reasons for Expansion

The driving force behind this expansion is a combination of spatial limitations and future growth prospects. As Joyce stated in his application, “The reason for requesting an expansion is because of the spatial limitations of our current space.” Situated between a neighboring building and a concrete staircase, horizontal expansion is not viable, leaving upwards as the only option.

Adapting to Shelton’s Growth

Double J’s is situated in an area undergoing rapid development, with new apartment complexes and infrastructure modifications driving an influx of people. To accommodate increasing foot traffic and enhance customer experience, the expansion aims to prepare the business for a potential uptick in visitors. Joyce noted, “Our current fire capacity is capped at 45 individuals and, given the rate at which Shelton/Derby is expanding…we are striving to keep up to accommodate the potential growth in crowds.”

Leveraging UConn NIL Partnerships

Double J’s has actively engaged with the University of Connecticut basketball’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program, which provides student-athletes opportunities to profit from their personal brand. This relationship has not only elevated the bar’s profile but also underscored the need for more space to host related events.

The expanded area would be advantageous for NIL sponsorship events, potentially featuring appearances by top-tier UConn players and university officials, which are currently constrained by the limited space.

A Vision for Versatile Spaces

In envisioning the new space, the Joyces foresee a multi-purpose venue with capabilities extending beyond everyday operations. The renovation includes:

• Enhanced capacity for sports event viewing and gatherings.
• Two-floor rental spaces available for private events.
• Opportunities for community engagement and larger crowd attractions.

The expansion is not only a business strategy but also a community investment, aiming to foster a welcoming environment for both locals and visitors.

Conclusion

As Shelton continues to evolve and modernize, businesses like Double J’s play an essential role in enriching the community fabric. With ambitious plans laid out by the Joyce family, the sports bar is primed to be a cornerstone as Coram Avenue transforms into a bustling hub.

Next Steps

Awaiting the public hearing, the Double J’s team is actively engaging with local specialists and officials to ensure the expansion aligns with regulations and community expectations. As they strive to upgrade not just their amenities, but also the avenues through which they serve and engage with the community, the future of Double J’s holds promise for both the Joyces and the residents of Shelton.

Stay tuned as this exciting project advances, reshaping the landscape of local hospitality and community space on Coram Avenue.

Source: https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/shelton-sports-bar-owner-eyes-expansion-coram-19906639.php