Category Archives: Real estate

Real Estate Report: Classic Supply & Demand

The old mantra about real estate — “location, location, location” — is true.

And when that location is Westport, this is also true: All real estate news is hyper-local.

Whatever else goes on in the rest of the country matters less — real estate-wise — than what happens in our 20 square miles.

Which is why — despite rising gas prices, increasing inflation and an uncertain economy — Westport’s real estate market is great.

If you’re selling.

Demand is sky-high. Supply is super-low. The result is exactly what you’d expect: The few homes that are for sale go very quickly.

And over the asking price.

This historic 7-bedroom home on Greens Farms Road is under contract for $3.75 million.

Karen Scott — a partner with KMS Team at Compass — puts it this way: “No inventory. Pent-up demand. Crazy prices.”

The reasons stretch as far back as COVID — when many New Yorkers and others “discovered” Westport, and commuting patterns changed.

And they’re as recent as this past long winter, which kept residents indoors and away from selling mode.

Continued limited inventory means that a new cohort has joined those who looked for homes last year, could not find them, but continue to search. That larger group is “competing ferociously,” Scott says. Often, it means homes sell for more than the asking price.

As of early April, there were just 48 homes for sale. Asking prices range from $1.035 million to $22.825 million.

The median sales price of single-family homes for the year so far is $2.345 million.

That’s up astronomically from the 12 months ending March 31, 2021 — $1.399,500 — which included the initial COVID frenzy.

There have been 59 sales, up 31% from last year. But new listings are still well below the previous year. The 102 homes that have hit the market in 2026 are 20 fewer than the same time in ’25.

Median days on market — 26 for this year — is not a true indicator of supply-and-demand, Scott notes. Many of those homes are new construction, and are not yet completed.

New construction — like this home at 16 Westport Avenue, a few steps from Compo Beach — is not yet finished. But realtors are ready to market it. 

A more indicative statistic, she says, is how quickly homes go under contract. When buyers are ready (with financing in place), and eager (waiving inspections, or having them for informational purposes only), a contract can be signed within days.

What drives all this?

“Westport has always been in demand, for all the amenities and features — the schools, beaches, arts, recreation, culture,” Scott says.

“And the town is run very efficiently. Taxes are not astronomical.”

However, she says, “people are now putting higher values” on those factors. And the word is getting out.

Those who have moved here in the last few years are telling their friends — and inviting them to see for themselves.

As prospective buyers drive and walk around town, and sit at restaurants, they strike up conversations with residents. They get a very positive, community-minded vibe.

“People who are already here are the best marketers” for Westport, Scott says. “It’s organic. It’s no one thing. It’s just a vibe that people feel when they visit. They hear that people love living here. And they enjoy sharing what they love about it.”

Casual conversations at the Black Duck (above), Nômade, Dandelion, Spotted Horse — and many other restaurants in town — help sell Westport to potential homebuyers. 

Meanwhile, some traditional sellers — empty nesters looking to downsize or “right size” — are not leaving. They may spend time in second homes, but they’re keeping this one, to enjoy their friends, the Library and many other activities.

Some invite their adult children — who are having a tough time entering the market — in.

And others who do list their houses are seeking even larger ones elsewhere in Westport, for multi-generational living with their children and grandchildren.

Adding to the tight supply: They don’t sell until they know where they’re going.

Before the pandemic, Scott says, sellers who were moving elsewhere in town listed their home. They waited months for a contract, and had “several hundred” properties on the market to choose from.

Now, it’s “buy first, then sell.”

So, in addition to “location, location, location,” add this to the current Westport housing mantra: supply and demand.

“It’s Economics 101,” Scott says. “It doesn’t get much simpler than that.”

(“06880” regularly covers real estate — and every other aspect of Westport life. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

“Then & Now”: #8

Today’s edition of Westport homes — teardowns, and their replacements, courtesy of photographer Dave Matlow’s archives and follow-up — takes us to the Compo and Old Mill Beach neighborhoods.

Those areas have seen more changes than many in town. Among them:

Sterling Drive, July 2011 …

… and April 2026.

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Sherwood Drive, August 2014 …

… and April 2026.

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Buena Vista Drive, December 2018 …

… and April 2026.

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Soundview Drive, March 2016 …

… and April 2026.

(“06880” regularly covers Westport real estate, history … and much more. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work.)

“Then & Now”: #7

Our drive down memory lane — specifically, past homes that have since passed into history — and a second drive by the houses that replaced them — continues this week.

“06880” photographer Dave Matlow has many photos in his archives. He’s been curious as to what’s taken their place. This week, he explores 4 more.

Rayfield Road, October 2004 …

… and March 2026.

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Salem Road, June 2019 …

… and March 2026.

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Pumpkin Hill, July 2010 …

… and March 2026.

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Meadowbrook Lane, April 2005 …

… and March 2026.

(“06880” regularly covers Westport real estate, history … and much more. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work.)

[OPINION] To P&Z: Expand Housing For People With Disabilities — And Maintain Strong Zoning Principles

As the Planning & Zoning Commission discusses a text amendment that would modify the definition of “special needs individuals,” to serve a wider range of people (click here and here) — while also addressing off-site affordable housing — Westport’s Commission on People with Disabilities offers their insights:

One question currently under review by the Planning & Zoning Commission deserves clear attention: how we define and support residents with disabilities.

Text Amendment #864, now before the P&Z, offers an important opportunity to expand the definition of “developmental disability” for special needs housing.

The current state definition framework — limited to individuals with an IQ below 70 and onset before age 18 — excludes many residents who face real barriers to appropriate housing.

136 Riverside Avenue now houses adults with disabilities. It is off-site affordable housing, part of the Richmondville Mill project.

The Commission on People with Disabilities strongly supports aligning the definition of “Special Needs Individuals” with federal law (42 U.S.C. §15002) rather than the more restrictive Connecticut standard.

The broader federal definition better reflects the range of disabilities that affect activities of daily living, and would help close existing gaps in access to special needs housing.

We support allowing off-site affordable housing within the Inclusionary Housing Overlay District — with clear standards.

We urge the Planning & Zoning Commission to allow off-site special needs housing only when it is clearly demonstrated to be superior to an on-site option — such as through better access to transportation, closer proximity to services, or design features like shared community spaces that more effectively support residents’ needs.

All proposals will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure they promote inclusion, community integration, and compliance with applicable regulations.

Off-site, deed-restricted special needs housing can also deliver an increased number of smaller, efficiency-style units, creating opportunities for shared spaces and supportive services, and generating more moratorium points than comparable on-site options.

3 George Street (above), off Maple Avenue South, could be used as a group home. The developer of an apartment project on Post Road East says that an expanded definition of “special needs individuals” would help expand access to a group home like this.

While on-site housing offers the benefits of integration, thoughtfully planned off-site housing can better meet the needs of individuals with disabilities by enabling more coordinated access to services, supports, and amenities.

Westport has an opportunity to take a thoughtful, balanced approach — expanding housing while maintaining strong zoning principles. The goal is not to work around the rules, but to make them work better for everyone.

(“06880″‘s Opinion pages are open to all. Send submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this blog, please click here.)

Roundup: Golf Course Opens, Cops Target Distracted Drivers, Heroes Save Owlet & Dog …

Fore!

The Longshore golf course and driving range open for the season this Friday (April 3).

That’s good news. Even better: There’s a new reservation system, new carts, enhancements to communication, and continued course improvements.

The ForeUp reservation service will provide a more user-friendly interface for booking and managing tee times.

Booking begins tomorrow (Thursday, 6:30 a.m.). Tee time booking windows remain 5 days in advance, starting at 6:30 a.m.

Golfers should check their email for a message from ForeUp, with details on setting up an online booking account. That includes a credit card, as no-show fees will be enforced.

Also new: electric lithium-ion Club Car carts. They’re equipped with GPS technology, allowing golfers to have distances available on the course.

A new phone system will be introduced too, to cut down on the general information phone calls going into the pro shop. The website remains the most easily accessible place for info on pricing, tee times, instruction and more.

Westport residents wishing to purchase or renew a golf handpass can do it online or at the Parks & Recreation office in Longshore (weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

Almost open! (Dave Dellinger)

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The Westport Police Department has joined a statewide distracted driving enforcement campaign, and public awareness initiative.

Both run all month, as part of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

Law enforcement agencies across Connecticut will ramp up distracted driving enforcement efforts. The focus is on identifying and citing drivers who text, use electronic handheld devices, or otherwise divert their attention from the road.

In 2023 alone, 5,202 crashes involving distracted driving resulted in 12 fatalities and 78 serious injuries.

Tips to avoid distracted driving:

• Pull over safely if you need to text or make a call.
• Ask a passenger to manage navigation or messages.
• Avoid checking social media while driving.
• Limit interaction with in-vehicle technology. Program
navigation or music before starting your trip.
• Use your phone’s “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature, or
silence notifications to reduce the temptation to check your device.

Distracted driving? Conditions sure don’t look dangerous.

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Two saves in one week, both worth noting:

Yesterday, Westport Police Officer Bernie Kelley assisted Westport Animal Control Officer Peter Reid in the rescue of a baby great horned owl at Longshore.

The bird was transported to Wildlife in Crisis for treatment of a small wound. If re-nesting proves feasible, it will be attempted. Residents interested in contributing towards the owlet’s care — or that of many other locally rescued and abandoned wildlife can click here.

Officer Bernie Kelley with owlet. 

Last Thursday, Westport Police Officer Daniel Lovallo responded to a roaming dog near I-95. The rottweiler was transported to Westport Animal Control, and received Westport Animal Shelter Advocates-funded care the next day.

She has been named Dottie, and is loved by the Westport Animal Control officers and WASA volunteers. No microchip was located and no owner has claimed her, so she is available for adoption. If interested, call WASA (203-557-0361), or email wasa1@optonline.net.

WASA will help with veterinary care. Residents interested in donating to that cause can click here.

Dottie the rottie.

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The Jazz Society of Fairfield County presents the wildly popular “Jazz at the Post” series. Every Thursday night, they bring musicians — some internationally famous — to VFW Post 399, for 2 great shows. The price is low; the talent level very, very high.

But Jazz FC does much more. Among their projects: outreach and scholarships.

To fund those endeavors, they’re sponsoring a “Jazz Cruise by the Saugatuck” (April 23, 6 to 10 p.m.). NOTE: It’s at the VFW, not actually on the river.

Over 25 award-winning artists will jam. There’s a silent auction and lavish dinner too. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Congratulations to Harry McLaughlin and Eva Slossberg!

The Staples High School seniors were honored Monday, at the Connecticut Association of Schools’ 31st annual High School Arts Banquet.

Harry McLaughlin (visual arts) and Eva (music and theater) were selected by Staples faculty members for their outstanding achievement, dedication, and impact within their disciplines.

The evening included a keynote address about how the arts shape identity, give voice to personal expression and create lasting impact, and a performance by Rubyfruit, a University of Connecticut a cappella group that promotes women’s empowerment through music.

Harry McLaughlin and Eva Slossberg.

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Congratulations too to Staples seniors Justin Halky, Ford Epstein, Patricio Garcia and Kai Schwartz.

The students in Stacey Delmhorst’s Financial Decision Making course placed 2nd at the Tuesday’s state finals of the National Personal Finance Challenge.

In the nationwide competition, student teams analyze case studies and respond to complex financial scenarios involving budgeting, saving, investing and managing risk.

From left: Ford Epstein, Patricio Garcia, Kai Schwartz, Justin Halky.

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Scott Brodie has lived in New York for decades.

But the 1970 Staples graduate grew up here. He visited his parents regularly; his mother Esther died less than a year ago, at 98.

So Scott was intrigued to read in yesterday’s Roundup that one of the homes the Historic District Commission will discuss on April 9, for a demolition permit, is 48 Burr Farms Road — a few houses down from the one his parents built in the 1950s.

He writes: “The house is one of about a dozen cookie-cutter split levels built by Norman Shapiro, who first developed the northern half of the road in the early 1950s.

“Over the years these have been either heavily modified, or torn down to make room for much larger houses. Indeed, #48 has been for many years pretty much the only one of these original houses in essentially its original state:

48 Burr Farms Road

“Only the few folks with long memories and a historically-trained eye can ‘see’ the bones of the original splits in the other, heavily-modified buildings. For example, here is #43:

43 Burr Farms Road

“The dormers, porch and front-facing gable are all add-ons.  The original garage with flat ‘sun deck’ survives, but was made into living space, with a new garage added at far left.

” expect the Commission will find little or no historical value in #48 — perhaps the last of its kind. Thus, the end of an era.”

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Nearly 100 Westport Rotary Club members and guests gathered Tuesday, to honor Win Allen.

The longtime, 93-year-old Westporter was celebrated for his service to, and leadership of, the organization. Marty Helman, a Rotary International trustee, came from Maine for the event.

The ceremony included a performance by Diego Carniero, a Rotary International Peace Ambassador, and acclaimed Ecuadorean cellist.

Win Allen (2nd from left) with (from left) Marty Helman, Rotary International trustee; Rick Benson of Westport and Billy Roberts of Massachusetts, past district governors.

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Westport Police made 5 custodial arrests between March 27 and 31.

A 29-year-old Manchester man as charged with larceny, burglary and criminal mischief, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, following an investigation into a September burglary at Westport Auto Repair. Two doors were pried open by suspects, who tried to steal the ATM but ultimately took 2 cash registers. They contained $1,000 in cash; damages were $4,800. He was held on a $50,000 bond.

A 28-year-old Bronx man was charged with larceny, after a complaint from Mike’s Factory Direct. After an online order for $33,136 worth of massage chairs was picked up by a man driving a U-Haul truck in November, the credit card company complained of fraud. The man was released on a $50,000 bond.

A 32-year-old Hamden man was charged with larceny, after 17 sets of tire and rim sets, worth over $30,000, were stolen in January from Maserati of Westport. He was released on a $50,000 bond.

A 54-year-old Middlebury man was charged with operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs, and failure to drive in the proper lane, after his vehicle struck one that was parked and unoccupied on River Lane. He was released on a $100 bond.

A 69-year-old Norwalk man was charged with disorderly conduct, after an early morning argument between 2 friends in a home about the quality of food being served turned physical. He was held on a $5,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 12 citations
  • Texting while driving: 8
  • Failure to renew registration: 8
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Tinted window glass violation: 2
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • Speeding in a school zone: 1
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1

Tinted windows must follow state laws.

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Yogi Bear stars in today’s “Westport .. Naturally” photo.

His friend Cat Malkin said yesterday: “When I broke the news that we couldn’t walk on the beach today he replied, “Is this some kind of April Fool’s joke?’”

“Sadly, for us it’s not. Until October.”

Yogi Bear (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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And finally … on this date in 1968, “2001: A Space Odyssey” premiered at the Uptown Theater in Washington.

(“06880” has been your window on Westport almost since 2001. We launched in 2009. Whether you’ve enjoyed us all along, or just found us yesterday: thanks. And please click here to support us!)

Roundup: Pizza Lyfe, 92 Beachside Avenue, Tony Hwang …

First, Pizza Lyfe established itself as one of Westport’s favorite (among many) pizzerias.

Then they expanded across Long Lots Road, opening Lyfe Café for breakfast, lunch and coffee.

Now comes a third Lyfe.

They’re taking over the Greenology/Jack’s Coffee space next door — the latest in a series of coffee shops there. Soon, it will open as Sweet Lyfe.

As first reported by WestportMoms, the new spot will feature high-protein Greek frozen yogurt, soft serve ice cream, small-batch gelato, smoothies, açaí bowls, imported candy and more.

Plus, “a chocolate and pistachio fountain.”

As Frank Sinatra sort of sang, “That’s Lyfe!”

Sweet Lyfe will move in soon next to (left side, not shown) Pizza Lyfe.

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The Historic District Committee meets April 9 (7 p.m., Zoom).

On the agenda: a demolition permit for 92 Beachside Avenue.

Because the home is over 50 years — in fact, the 7,700-square foot Tudor with 8 bedrooms and 8 1/2 bathrooms, once owned by Lucie Bedford (of Westport’s leading philanthropic family) and her husband, Briggs Cunningham (a race car driver and America’s Cup winner), set on 3.55 acres with 200 feet of Long Island Sound waterfront, is exactly 100 years old — the HDC can delay demolition for 180 days.

It cannot, however, prevent it.

The front of 92 Beachside Avenue …

… and a view from the Sound.

The Historic District Commission will also discuss demolition permits for:

  • 2 Izzo Lane
  • 48 Burr Farms Road
  • 41 Sniffen Road
  • 51 Whitney Street (detached garage only)
  • 20 Bermuda Road
  • 4 Woods Grove Road
  • 103 Sturges Highway
  • 4 Ridge Drive.

On the agenda too: rescinding adoption of the motion to oppose issuance of a demotion permit for 11 Dogwood Lane.

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Tony Hwang — the state senator from Fairfield who, before redistricting, represented parts of Westport and Weston — will not run for a 7th term.

The Republican announced his decision Monday. Including earlier service in the House of Representatives, he said that after nearly 18 years it is time to “ begin the next chapter of my life.”

Hwang — who was born in Taiwan, graduated from Cornell University and became the first Asian American in the Connecticut Senate — will return to the real estate profession.

He also hopes to work with nonprofits and academic institutions to encourage civic engagement.

Hwang said, “My goal is to help future generations understand that community must always come before political labels — and that effective governance requires collaboration, empathy, courage and respect.”

State Senator Tony Hwang (right), with Westport RTM moderator Jeff Wieser. (Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

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Has an osprey returned to Westport?

The verdict is out on the  Fresh Market nest. (It may be a hawk.)

But Ed Simek sends along this shot from Gray’s Creek, next to the Longshore exit road.

(Photo/Ed Simek) 

It sure looks like an osprey to him — and us.

But we’ll leave it to our experts: “06880” readers.

Is it an osprey? A different raptor? Click “Comments” below.

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Speaking of animals: As the temperature reached the mid-70s yesterday, dogs romped on Compo Beach.

They won’t be back for 6 months.

March 31 is the final day dogs are allowed on town beaches, until October 1.

The ones who were there made the most of the almost-summer day.

And boy, there were a lot of them.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Speaking of nature: Earthplace hosts several intriguing adult events soon.

  • Craft & Sip: Create Botanical Stationery (April 9, 6 p.m.; $35 members, $45 non-members)
  • Mindfulness: Forest Bathing (April 16, 10-11 a.m.; $25)
  • Mindfulness: Sound Bath (April 29, 6 to 7 p.m.; $45)
  • Toast to the Trees (family) (April 25, 4 p.m.)
  • Cocktails &  Clams (June 6, 5 to 7 p.m.).

And for the younger set: Kids Night Out (April 10, 6 to 9 p.m.; $50 members; $60 non-members).

Click here for details on all programs, and registration.

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Aaron and Brett Fortunoff of Staples High School’s Cereal 4 All Club offer “a great big thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s drive a success.” The Staples Service League of Boys (SLOBs) was a huge help.

They collected 1,600 boxes of cereal, and raised over $3,000. They’ve already begun distributing cereal to local food pantries.

Contributions are still welcome. Venmo @lauriefortunoff (she will purchase cereal), or make a tax-deductible donation at cereal4all.org.

Aaron and Brett Fortunoff, with donated cereal (and friend).

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He was right outside her kitchen window.

But Ann Cole says she would not have seen this owl, had he not rotated his head.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows the beauty of nature’s camouflage.

It’s everywhere. We just have to look.

Very, very carefully.

(Photo/Ann Cole)

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And finally … to all those who forgot that today was April 1, when they clicked on our lead story this morning:

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Spinnaker’s Saugatuck: What’s Next?

The Hamlet @ Saugatuck project is dead.

But 2 of the properties proposed for that redevelopment project recently changed hands.

As first reported by Westport Journal, Spinnaker Real Estate Partners — a Norwalk-based commercial real estate firm that has developed mixed-use properties in South Norwalk and New Haven — bought 606 Riverside Avenue for $12.795 million, and 96 Franklin Street for $3.25 million.

The larger Riverside Avenue site includes Minutemen Cleaners and 2 other businesses. Previously, it was an automobile dealership. The smaller nearby property is a parking lot.

Spinnaker has not yet disclosed plans for the site. They did not respond to requests for comment.

606 Riverside Avenue.

Will they try to recreate some elements of the Hamlet project — the retail/ residential/hotel/marina plan rejected last year by the Planning & Zoning Commission?

Some residents applauded some parts of the proposal, developed by ROAN Ventures. Others found it too dense, too massive, too out of character for the neighborhood.

New commercial development in the area — particularly around dilapidated 606 Riverside Avenue — could be the next step for Spinnaker. It would follow the renovation pioneered by Gault that brought the Whelk, other businesses and apartments to the area near Bridge Square (and which, when proposed, was also hotly debated).

New apartments a few steps from the train station could attract both young people, and older Westporters looking to downsize. Spinnaker has experience with transit-oriented development: Their Platform apartments are just steps from the South Norwalk station.

Spinnaker’s “The Platform” apartments, by the South Norwalk train station. They include studios, and 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms.

Hamlet’s hotel idea was welcomed by some. Others questioned the economics of a boutique property with just a few dozen rooms, in the shadow of I-95.

After the P&Z squelched the Hamlet, ROAN threatened a massive 8-30g affordable housing development. They later withdrew that plan.

Spinnaker has not previously pursued 8-30g projects. Their work leans toward projects like SoNo Central, a 150-unit apartment building with 3,000 square feet of restaurant and retail space, and The Audubon, luxury apartments near Yale New Haven Hospital and the Audubon Arts District.

ROAN proposed to renovate and “re-skin” the 21 Charles Street office building opposite Zucca Gastrobar. The structure has been a thorn in the side of many locals. Spinnaker did not buy that property, however.

Spinnaker’s purchases also did not include any riverfront property. ROAN’s plans for water taxis were derided by some. Others liked the idea of a marina, and the concept of opening up the river — now hidden behind nondescript buildings, and a boatyard.

One of the Hamlet’s marina plans.

All of which is to say: Saugatuck development may soon be back in the news.

In which case, it will share headlines with another Saugatuck project: the future of the Cribari Bridge.

The 2 would not be related — except for their impact on traffic through the area.

That is an important consideration.

One of ROAN’s proposals involved rethinking and synchronizing traffic lights, from I-95 Exit 17 down Charles Street and Riverside Avenue, to the bridge.

Whatever Spinnaker decides, that would be a welcome step toward solving some of the thorniest issues Saugatuck has seen in its long, storied history.

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“Then & Now”: Part 6

There is no shortage of photos of now-demolished Westport ones — and the new ones that have replaced them.

Today, photographer Dave Matlow’s series takes us to 3 properties in the Old Hill neighborhood, and one off Compo Road South.

Old Hill Farms Road, October 2011 …

… and March 2026.

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Park Lane, June 2007 …

… and March 2026,

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Broadview Road, February 2010 …

… and March 2026.

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Partrick Road, April 2013 …

… and March 2026. (All photos/Dave Matlow)

(“06880” regularly covers Westport real estate, history … and much more. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work.)

Roundup: VersoFest, “Almost, Maine,” Apartments …

Congolese drums had never been heard in the Westport Library before yesterday — or perhaps in any other library, anywhere.

But there they were at 10 a.m., kicking off a jam-packed VersoFest Saturday with a dance and drum workshop.

Cumbe Dance, at the Westport Library. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Also yesterday: actress Gina Gershon discussed her new memoir, “AlphaPussy: How I Survived the Valley and Learned to Love My Boobs,” with journalist/rock memoirist (and Westport resident) Alisyn Camerota.

Gina Gerson, with Alisyn Camerota. (Photo/Susan Garment)

Last night ended with musician/writer/playwright/poet/visual artist/alt-rock legend David J (Bauhaus, Love and Rockets).

He read from his new poetry book “Rhapsody, Threnody & Prayer,” was interviewed by author Douglas Rushkoff, and finished with a set of acoustic songs.

David J (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

The 5th annual music, media and more event concludes today (Sunday), with a panel on AI and the music industry (10:30 a.m.), a conversation with Capitol Theater owner and festival producer Dean Budnick (12 p.m.), a Suno workshop (12 p.m.), and a screening of “Grateful Dead: Dead Ahead” (2 p.m.).

Click here for details and registration. 

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Speaking of the Library: It’s a storied Westport institution.

So is Staples Players.

On Monday, April 6 (6:30 p.m.) they’ll collaborate for the first time ever, on a staged (and free!) reading.

David Roth’s Theatre 3 Advanced class presents “Almost, Maine.” The whimsical, funny and poignant show takes place as northern lights hover about a remote town. Residents fall in and out of love, in unexpected and hilarious ways.

And — because neither Players nor the Library ever does things halfway — playwright John Cariani will come to the reading, and lead a talkback afterward.

Click here for more details.

The cast of “Almost, Maine.”

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As promised, the new apartments being built at 85 Post Road West — between Kings Highway Elementary School and Riverside Avenue — include “affordable housing” based on state guidelines.

Applications are being accepted for the 22 1- and 2-bedroom units. The maximum rental prices are $2,100 and $2,511  respectively.

Applicants will be contacted first come, first served, and given the opportunity to submit supporting documentation and go through the verification process.

Click here for the submission form. Questions? Call 475-999-2445.

Early stages of construction last year, on Post Road West. 

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Speaking of new construction: As Coastal Luxury Homes prepares to convert 455 Post Road East — the former Connecticut Humane Society — to 25 apartments and 5 townhouses, they’re paying homage to the former tenants.

Coastal has donated all the cages and crates inside the building to TAILS (The Alliance in Limiting Strays).

The other day, 20 volunteers used a big truck and 2 smaller vans to give them — just like the animals they serve — a new home.

Cages get a new home, thanks to Coastal Luxury Homes and TAILS.

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Cold weather did not deter Trout Unlimited members from getting outside — though not on the Saugatuck River.

The other day Andy McNab and Pippa Bell Ader collected most of the garbage strewn about Ford Road, and the parking lot across the Bridgewater bridge.

Pippa adds this gentle, but important, reminder: “Westporters have the opportunity to help clean up the town, on and around Earth Day (April 22).”

Andy McNab smiles as he cleans up other people’s trash near the Saugatuck River, at the Glendinning property. (Photo/David Ader)

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Big Y hosted Staples’ Service League of Boys (SLOBs) yesterday.

Club members and Homes with Hope personnel collected donations for the Gillespie Center food pantry.

Donations are always welcome. Click here to build on SLOBS’ great foundation.

Staples SLOBs (right) with Homes with Hope personnel, at Big Y.

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Mardi Gras is over.

But our Minute Man is still celebrating. Check out the beads around his neck.

Party on, big guy!

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Aspetuck Land Trust‘s spring native plant sale begins next month. Ordering for non-members begins April 11.

Click here to preview the offerings.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo comes from Michael Szeto.

After installing a birdfeeder this past week, his first visitor was a Cooper’s hawk. It frequently visits back yards, to prey on small birds drawn to feeders.

(Photo/Michael Szeto)

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And finally … on this date in 1871, Royal Albert Hall was opened by Queen Victoria.

Which brings to mind 2 songs by British bands, each of which mentions one of them.

(A day in our life includes a reminder that “06880” relies on the generosity of our readers. If you appreciate these daily Roundups — or anything else — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Real Estate: A Multi-Generational Tale

For decades, suburban families have been stereotyped as a dad, mom and kids, in a house with a picket fence.

The picket fence has been replaced by a faux stone wall. Dad and mom may now live next door to a single parent, dad and dad, or mom and mom. 

There are other configurations too, like multi-generational housing. Today, our friends at KMS Team at Compass  — where at least one associate lives with her own parent — explore the trend.

We hear increasingly common requests these days about the need for multi-generational housing. This includes ADUs (accessory dwelling units), and homes with ample space within for privacy and independence.

The trend began during COVID. It continues for a variety of reasons, including the desire of grandparents to be part of grandchildrens’ lives (and the help they can provide for working parents); the difficulty young buyers face in finding homes in their budget, and more.

Two substantial multi-generational transactions were recently recorded in Westport.

Several Beachside Avenue properties (#120-122, 124-128 and 26) were purchased by an undisclosed buyer for their extended family.

128 Beachside Avenue: plenty of room for generations to share.

And the Kowalsky farm property at 109 Morningside Drive South was purchased by Marc Lasry, who may build homes for a few of his children on the property.

On a more standard level, we recently guided a mother, daughter and grandchildren into a new home in Westport. The search took us along many paths.

From the outset, we knew the property would need to offer an existing accessory dwelling unit (ADU), the ability to build one, or an in-law suite with enough separation to provide privacy for everyone.

This significantly narrowed the field, but we explored every viable option.

We even considered a new construction opportunity. While the home itself had potential, the location was not ideal, and the many decisions required when designing a home from the ground up quickly became overwhelming.

Our search refocused on homes that were complete, and ready to enjoy.

A new opportunity came on the market. We toured it that day. The home checked nearly every box.

It had been completely remodeled by the owner, meaning the property required no cosmetic updates or improvements.

Location was another key factor. The home is just minutes from the Westport train station, making commuting into the city convenient for her daughter.

It is also part of a small enclave of homes that share access to a pool, private dock and beach.

Having owned a home with a pool previously, the mother loved the idea of having pool access, without the responsibility of its maintenance.

Sitting on just over an acre, the property was another plus. There was room for the grandchildren to play, and it could easily accommodate an ADU. The builder had even drafted plans for one while considering it for his own use.

An ADU, designed by architect John Rountree.

Particularly intriguing was the space above the garage. The large, fully finished bedroomand bathroom provided an excellent foundation for a private living area.

Rather than building a separate ADU on the property, our client plans to expand this space to create a larger suite with its own living area and kitchen.

Westport is no longer a town filled almost only with parents and children. Multi-generational housing is one more piece of our changing demographics.

(“06880” regularly covers real estate trends — and everything else in town. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Maida Webster and her husband (right) added a full addition to the home their adult children (left, with their own children) in 2017. The 3 generations enjoy proximity, but also privacy.