HARTFORD, CT. (WFSB) - A massive operation took place in Hartford today.

Four historic homes were moved in order to create space for Connecticut children’s new parking facility.

The process - both expensive and controversial.

The relocation process started early this morning, as four historic homes moved off of Lincoln street.

A system of hydraulic jacks on wheels was used to move the homes.

As the homes were relocated to their new homes, neighbors and residents throughout frog hollow watched in awe.

“I think that is so awesome because you never see nothing like it before. So this is a first time thing for me,” Marissa Crawford said.

The operation is making way for Connecticut Children’s new parking facility.

The $60 million, 9 story building will have 900 parking spots and retail space.

The historic homes were built on Lincoln street more than 125 years ago.

“Place matters. And regular homes matter to a city, to a town. It’s just place. This is your place,” said Mary Falvey, Executive Director of the Hartford Preservation Alliance.

The homes have been moved to vacant lots on Putnam Street, Lawrence Street and Hungerford street.

Roughly 3 million dollars was committed to the relocation project.

The mayor feels there were better alternatives.

“Looking down the barrel of “3 million, I thought about the fact that we could hire 30 teachers with 3 million dollars and we can pay for 3,000 kids to be in the youth service corps,” Mayor Arunan Arulampalam, (D) Hartford said.

“The decision to move the homes was made following years of negotiation and conversations with the previous administration.

LAZ parking acquired the 4 homes so nobody is currently living in them.

The homes will be put up for sale in the future.