After nearly eight years of planning and lawsuits, the AvalonBay apartment and retail development finally broke ground in Norwalk Tuesday.

Norwalk Mayor Richard Moccia and others shoveled the first piles of dirt and touted the economic boost the project promises. Two five-story residential towers will be constructed along with 15,000-square feet of retail space, where the River View Plaza and its parking lot are now located. The project is expected to reach completion in 18 to 24 months.

Most people who spoke to News 12 Connecticut say they're excited about the new businesses that may potentially enter the area. The VP of development says there is already a lengthy waiting list for retail spots.