The demolition of the structure on Birdsall Street in January. In it's place, two apartment buildings will be built by the Barnes brothers. The rebuilding project is scheduled to be completed in the fall. (Photo by Tyler Murphy)

NORWICH — The Barnes brothers are building brand new apartment buildings on the corner of Birdsall Street and Hale Street.

The project was first introduced to the Norwich common council last summer. Once the demolition of a previous structure allowed construction to move forward, the brothers didn't waste any time.

"Once they were able to clear the structure that was there they were able to really move right along," said Alderman Matthew Caldwell. "They're not wasting any time, they're going as fast as fast can go."

Rich Barnes, owner of Colonia Theater and Barnes Electric in Norwich, said he and his brother decided to build the units as a way to help improve the community.

"Well basically my brother and I were talking and we were trying to improve the area," said Barnes. "He bought the property and we decided this was the best thing to do for that lot."

Robert D. Jeffrey, the Alderman of Ward 6, where the buildings will be located, said he thinks the project will be great for the community.

"I think this is a huge thing for Ward 6. Again, you took a property that was beyond disrepair and they tore it down and they're building new. And again, this is all about revitalizing our neighborhoods and they are a key critical part of that neighborhood," said Jeffrey.