Category Archives: Real estate

Roundup: 29 North Avenue, DNR — And Happy Mothers Day!

Posted on May 11, 2025 | 7 comments

29 North Avenue — the small saltbox jutting into the sidewalk near Staples High School — is one of the most admired homes in Westport.

Now the entire state knows about it.

On Thursday owner Annette Norton received a Connecticut Preservation Award, for her loving rehabilitation of the c. 1820 Mills house.

At just 930 square feet of low-ceilinged space — and vacant through 7 years of bankruptcy proceedings — it could well have been another teardown.

But the Savvy + Grace owner, working with contractor Javier Pasato, restored, rehabilitated and preserved the historic dwelling. (And the adjacent 19th-century barn, too.)

Congratulations, Annette. Your dedication to Westport — both residential and retail — is greatly appreciated! (Hat tip: Bob Weingarten)

29 North Avenue, after restoration.

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Happy Mothers Day!

And Wreathing for Community — the non-profit that creates gorgeous wreaths, then gives them to non-profits and lucky residents — has a Mothers Day winner.

Pamela Tinoco nominated her mom.

Wreathing’s Faith Sargent says that Pamela’s mom’s “love, resilience and presence have left a lasting impression on her family. The nomination was heartfelt and full of admiration — a beautiful reminder of the quiet strength so many mothers carry. I’m honored to gift this wreath in her honor.”

Pamela Tinoco, her daughter and the wreath to be delivered to Pamela’s mom.

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No one wants to hear “DNR.”

Unless they playing.

Doctors know the initials stand for “Do Not Resuscitate.”

Music lovers know it stands for one of Fairfield County’s favorite rock bands.

And — surprise! — nearly all the musicians are physicians.

On Saturday, June 14 (7 p.m.), they take their show to the Westport Library. It’s a fundraiser, for the Library’s great community programming.

Get your tickets ($40) here. There is also a cash bar.

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Some Staples High School sports get more recognition than others.

In the spring, baseball and lacrosse are big.

But hundreds of other athletes play a dozen other sports.

One of the most overlooked is girls water polo.

Today Ryan Allen — the sophomore whose photos and videos of a variety of subjects have impressed many “06880” readers — gives it the attention it deserves.

He stopped by the pool the other day, and created this video. Game on!

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Speaking of swimming (sort of): The Westport Country Playhouse celebrates the 50th anniversary of “Jaws” on June 2 (7 p.m.).

The classic film will be shown, along with a talk and trivia before and after with artistic director Mark Shanahan. Get your tickets ($25) here.

Not scared? Want more? A Script in Hand play reading of “The Shark Is Broken” — a witty, revealing play about the making of the film (directed by Shanahan) is set for June 9 (7 p.m.). Monday, June 9, at 7 p.m. Get tickets and more information here.

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More than 5 dozen students were inducted into 6 Language Honor Societies recently. Felicidades to:

Società Onoraria Italica (Italian): Cooper Brundige, Sofia DiLeo, Uzi Greenman, Gabriel Hellmann, Carly Mulhern, Benjamin Peterson, Isabellal Pirkl, Myla Saperstein, Riley Sklar.

Delta Epsilon Phil (German): William Enquist, Thomas Nowak, Skye Selva, Matthewe Tybur.

Zhōngwén Róngyù Xuéhuì (Chinese): Danie Arava, Lila Boroujerdi, Ben Esser, Natalia Garment, Jay Hari, Miles Khan, Olivia Morgeson, Stella Nguyen, Olivia Saw, Rebecca Schachter, Rajan Sekhar, Andreson Seo, Brooke Shaughnessy, Michael Wang, Andersen Ye, Connor Yuan.

Associatonem Ad Promovendum Studium Latinum (Latin): Tanush Arora, Annie Bowman, Catherine Campagnino, Ava Carter, Samantha Hermus, Drew Hill, Nelly Kaminski, Olivia Kuliga, Mina Leon, Dhilan Patel, Jake Shufro, Sophie Smith, Oliver Vynerib.

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (Spanish): Isabel Alfageme, Emma Asiel, Kevin Cano, Sofia Donroe, Kate Finger, Owen Goldfarb, Abigail Kane, Christian Michaels, Sydney Minervini, Sophia Novello, Devyn Peffer, Rei Seltzer, Taylor Serotta, Isabelle Wasserman.

Société Honoraire de Français (French): Kate Bulkeley, Penelope Eisenberger, Gunnar Eklund, Andi Jacobs, Isabel Jo, Souleye Kebe, Graysen Peters, Daniella Sacchetti, Maria Stiber.

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You may not have heard of the “J vs. K Book Tour.”

But your kid sure has.

The other day, it took the Library by storm. Best-selling authors and Newbery Award winners Kwame Alexander (“The Crossover”) and Jerry Craft (“New Kid”) took over the Trefz Forum to celebrate comics, creativity, and the magic of collaboration.

“J vs. K” is the latest book project from Alexander and Craft. The illustrated story features 2 talented 5th graders — one a writer, the other a drawer — going head to head in a creative competition for the ages.

As part of the book launch, the writers are traveling the country in a special van, talking to elementary and middle school students.

The crowd of 300 at the Library came from Dunbar School in Bridgeport, ESL students from Central High School in Bridgeport, Marvin Elementary in Norwalk, and Wooster Middle School in Stratford.

The J vs. K Tour comes to the Library.

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The public is invited to the Westport Police Department’s promotional ceremony (May 23, 4 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

David Farrell will be sworn in as police chief. Also on stage for promotions: deputy chief David Wolf, captains Jillian Cabana and Eric Woods, and detective Rachel Hall.

Westport’s next police chief: David Farrell.

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Jack Krayson opened his pool opened on Friday.

It will be cleaned tomorrow.

In the meantime, it’s the perfect algae-ridden environment for this guy.

And his photo is the perfect image for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Jack Krayson)

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And finally … Johnny Rodriguez — one of country music’s first Hispanic stars — died Friday, at 73. Here’s his obituary. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)

(Happy Mothers Day, to all who celebrate. To celebrate my late mother, or my 2 sisters who are great mothers, please support their son/brother’s blog by making a contribution here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Police, Real estate, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Despite National Volatility, Westport Real Estate Market Still Strong

Posted on May 11, 2025 | 11 comments

Single family home sales in Westport continue to decline.

The good news — for sellers and our tax revenue, if not for buyers — is that prices continue to rise.

Homes are also spending fewer days on market than in prior years. That’s due to stronger buyer demand, and a shift in marketing strategy.

There were 69 sales of single-family homes between January 1 and May 5. The average price was $2.576 million.

Another 19 condos and townhouses were sold, at an average price of $1.364 million.

This 6- bedroom, 8 1/2-bathroom, 8,639-square foot home on 2 acres at Fraser Lane is on the market for $10.95 million.

Those are some analyses by our friends at KMS Team at Compass.

But — as is often the case with real estate — there’s more there than meets the eye.

“There have always been “off-market sales,” they say. Those are properties that change hands privately.

Off-market sales have existed for quite a while. Any homeowner can choose how to sell their home: a full MLS listing, to a family member, to a buyer directly, to a buyer represented by a buyer agent, to a builder, etc.

Sellers have various reasons for choosing to sell off-market, including privacy, discretion, ease of transaction, convenience, etc.

Not every homeowner is interested in attracting the most money for their property, and multiple bid situations. Many actors impact the decision on how to sell such a large investment.

Today, KMS says, the trend is to start offering a home for sale privately, to test the market and price.

That gives sellers time to properly prepare their home — and themselves — for the sale.

Beyond maintaining privacy, sellers believe this strategy helps drive serious, qualified buyers to their home. That makes the process easier, and less invasive.

Meanwhile — despite volatility in many areas of the American economy — Westport’s real estate market seems largely unaffected.

All markets are hyper-local, KMS emphasizes. In years past, when sales were sizzling nationally, Westport was less active.

Countrywide trends are not indicative of what’s happening in our town.

That’s why — in addition to pricing, preparing and selling a home, and handling all the associated paperwork — realtors also serve as trusted confidantes.

“We all have to be calm” in turbulent times, counsels KMS’ Karen Scott.

“Right now, the world is emotional. We try to help people think logically, and focus on the buying and selling task at hand.”

Clients (and realtors) “should not get caught up in national headlines.We have to focus on what’s happening here.

“People are more cautious, but they’re still buying and selling. Interest rates are higher, but it’s not complete doom and gloom. In Westport, there are still a lot of buyers, and a lack of inventory.”

(“06880” covers the Westport real estate market — and everything else that happens here with homeowners, renters, former residents and visitors. Please click here to support it all. Thank you!)

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Posted in Economy, Real estate

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Roundup: Hunt Club, E-Bike Safety, Sailboat Racing …

Posted on May 7, 2025 | 5 comments

After several years and 2 attempts, the Fairfield County Hunt Club will build a new racquets facility.

On Monday, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted to approve the 22,000-square foot indoor tennis and squash court building.

The original plan — for outdoor paddleball courts — met strong opposition from neighbors.

This time, residents on nearby Hunt Club Lane opposed the size of the structure, and possible noise from HVAC machinery.

The P&Z vote was 6-1. John Bolton opposed.

Also on Monday, the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) unanimously approved the Board of Education’s $150.4 million operating budget.

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Last night, in what has become an annual ritual, the RTM voted 28-2 to restore Wheels2U’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

Westport Transit District directors Peter Gold and Karina Betfarhad thanked the 400 residents who wrote letters in support of the service, which links riders with the 2 train stations, and their homes, jobs and other spots in town.

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E-bikes are e-verywhere.

To raise awareness about safety, the Westport Police Department is sponsoring a community forum.

The May 13 event (6:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) will cover rules and regulations (for riders and motorists), street awareness, and tips and resources for all ages. A Q-and-A session will follow.

The evening will feature law enforcement officials and safety director Charles Foster of SCBC Safe Rides.

Class 3 e-bike.

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Speaking of safety: a car fire broke out during the Westport Rotary Club’s meeting yesterday, at Green’s Farms Church.

While the service organization was handing out $285,000 in grants at its annual awards luncheon, to 46 Fairfield County non-profits, Westport firefighters doused the blaze. There were no injuries, and no damage to the building.

Meanwhile, all the funds were handed out successfully, and received gratefully. The recipients provide services for victims of homelessness, food insecurity, substance abuse, domestic violence, mental health and other challenges.  Of the nearly 4 dozen awardees, 1/3 ar based in Westport. 

The grants come from the Rotary Club’s annaul LobsterFest. Mark your calendar: This year’s is September 20.

A small part of the large Rotary Club crowd. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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If you’ve ever sat on the beach, watched sailboat races and wondered what it’s like to be on the water: This could be your summer.

You can join a boat — for free.

  • Cedar Point Yacht Club is looking for crews, for various fleets:
  • Atlantic (Saturdays, Sundays)
  • Flying Scot, Lightning, Thistle (Saturdays)
  • Vanguard 15 (Thursday, Fridays [women], Sundays

Cruising Class (Wednesdays, Saturdays). Click here for opportunities. Captains will welcome you aboard.

Cedar Point racing. (Photo/Richard Gordon)

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Wakeman Town Farm thinks of everything.

Including “Sensory Safari: Farm Fun for Neurodiverse Kids.”

The gentle, sensory-friendly animal adventure is designed for children ages 3-8.

The 45-minute session includes the chance to interact with  goats, alpacas, sheep, rabbits and chickens.

The relaxed pace includes plenty of time to observe, touch (as comfortable), and engage with the animals in a calm, supportive environment.

The class is run by Jewell Ailes, an educator who works in an intensive resource room one-on-one with students with ASD and other special needs.

Wednesday classes are May 21 and 28, and June 4 and 11 (4:15 to 5 p.m.). For more information and to register, click here.

Fun at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Last month, Cory Booker delivered the longest recorded speech in US Senate history. For 25 hours and 5 minutes, he protested President Trump, and his administration.

He’ll speak for considerably less time next month, in Westport.

But the New Jersey Democrat will be here, raising funds for his re-election campaign. The event is June 6, 5:30 to 7 p.m. For details, email lizmilwe@gmail.com.

Senator Cory Booker

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Henry Patrick Raleigh was a noted Westport illustrator. He drew for magazines like the Saturday Evening Post and Colliers.

The Society of Illustrators calls him a “’star’ during the Golden Age of American Illustration (1900–1930). His graceful, fluid drawings, usually of crowded social scenes, were done in line, wash or colored inks and seemed to flow from his fingertips….

“Home to Raleigh was what is now the famous artist’s colony of Westport, Connectict. He, George Wright, Frederick Dorr Steele and Rose O’Neill helped pioneer that area’s popularity.”

F. Scott Fitzgerald — another noted Westporter — called his work “the best illustrations I’ve ever seen.” Decades later, in 1991, art historian Benjamin Eisenstat said, “Raleigh was the highest paid illustrator in America, and perhaps the world.”

The home he once lived in — 167A Compo Road South — is now on the market.

Built in 1913, the 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 2,103-square foot house on 2 acres is listed for $1.895 million.

Let’s hope it appeals to someone who appreciates the history behind it.

And wants to keep it.

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Plenty of Westporters celebrated Cinco de Mayo on Monday, at several of our town’s Mexican restaurants.

But no one had a better time than Andrew Colabella. The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member, and man about town, celebrated in style at Viva Zapata.

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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From the Revolutionary Era to today, artists have explored our nation’s evolving understanding of itself through depictions of Old Glory.

On May 29 (6 p.m., MoCA CT), Dr. Robin Jaffee Frank’s “O Say Can You See: Artists Reimagine the Flag” gallery talk will describe how artists incorporate the stars and stripes into their work, to “achieve aesthetic ends, critique social and political inequities, celebrate freedom and democracy, support and mourn our troops, and express despair and hope.”

For tickets and more information, click here.

The American flag, in a variety of artworks.

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The “06880” panel on youth sports is 1 week from today.

We’ve partnered with Tommy Greenwald — the famed youth adult sports fiction writer, former Staples athlete (and father of 3 athletes) — to present “Fair Play and Foul Behavior: Issues Facing Youth Sports in Today’s World.”

It’s May 14 (7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria).

Topics include the achievement/pressure balance, referee abuse, sport specialization, cost, the “academy” syndrome, myths and realities of college recruiting, and more.

I’ll moderate the event, and include time for audience questions. Panelists are:

  • VJ Sarullo, Staples athletic director
  • Dave Smith, father of 4 athletes who writes frequently on youth sports topics
  • Caleb Smith, former Staples quarterback and lacrosse star, now playing football at the University of Connecticut
  • Heather Talbott, PAL girls lacrosse co-president and basketball organizer; former lacrosse player at Lehigh University
  • Mark Pressman, longtime football and softball official
  • And of course Tommy Greenwald himself.

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At first glance, today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo looks sooooo cute.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

But then you remember that the 5 cute little babies will grow up to be 5 honking, grass-eating, pooping adults, and, well …

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And finally … on this date in 1824, Beehoven’s Ninth Symphony — perhaps his most famous — had its world premiere in Vienna.

(Beethoven had patrons. “06880” is not a musical genius — just a hyper-local blog. But we depend on donors too. Please click here to support our work. Meanwhile, enjoy the music!)

 

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Posted in Education, Environment, Local politics, Police, Real estate, Restaurants, Sports

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The Hamlet: P&Z Slides

Posted on May 3, 2025 | 40 comments

A full house at Town Hall watched Monday, as ROAN Ventures — the developer of the Hamlet at Saugatuck retail/residential/hotel/marina/and more project — showed their latest architectural renderings and traffic studies to the Planning & Zoning Commission.

The 90-minute presentation included a number of PowerPoint slides.

The audience — in person, and watching at home — got plenty of information. Much of it went by fairly quickly.

ROAN has shared their deck with “06880.” If you missed a few of the details — or missed the meeting entirely — here some highights.

Parking garage.

Valet parking slide.

Surface parking count.

Parking garage (top) and assorted signage.

Building height (waterfront view), compared to National Hall.

Another slide depicting building heights.

The former Pine Knoll Inn (at the site of today’s Playhouse Square) inspired the design of this building.

Earlier drawing (left) and revised (right) show simplified, more connected buildings, and the addition of a waterfront plaza.

Earlier rendering (left) and revised (right) show broader access to the Saugatuck River.

Before (left) and revised (right) renderings show height changes.

Aerial renderings. Railroad Place is at bottom; Riverside Avenue and Saugatuck River are at right. 

Proposed traffic improvements.

Proposed traffic signal upgrades.

(“06880” was the first media outlet to report on The Hamlet project. We’ve followed the story every since. Please click here, to support our ongoing coverage — and everything else we do. Thank you!)

40 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck

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Affordable Apartment Plan Dropped; Moratorium Points Lost

Posted on May 2, 2025 | 17 comments

In recent days, Westport camethisclose to moving forward on a new affordable housing project.

Just a few yards from the Post Road, its 32 units would have provided apartments for teachers, police officers, firefighters and other town employees.

Estimates are that 242 town employees could qualify, at less than 60% of the area media income (about $82,000, for a family of 2).

Of those, 144 are teachers. The high cost of housing — and long commutes from communities where homes are less expensive — is one reason educators leave the Westport district.

And — because every one of those units would be considered affordable under state guidelines — it would have marked an enormous step forward in Westport’s efforts toward a moratorium from Connecticut’s onerous 8-30g mandate.

But the plan to convert the current hair salon and adjacent multifamily home at 6 Maple Avenue South — just behind the Exxon station — was scuttled right near the end of real estate negotiations. Owner Ken Kronberg (who also owns the gas station) decided not to sell.

6 Maple Avenue South. The Exxon gas station (not shown) is on the right.

Architect Joseph Vallone and Rick Redniss of the civil engineering and land use firm Redniss & Mead had worked on the plan since last fall.

Redniss tells “06880” that, with 4% low-income housing tax credit financing, the 32 units might have yielded 40.5 points — almost 20% of those needed for Westport’s next 8-30g moratorium.

A traditional 8-30g development, with only 10 affordable units, would yield only 23 points.

Vallone and Redniss were all set to move forward with a text amendment, called “Deed Restricted Housing Development.”

But after speaking with several neighbors, Kronberg declined to sell. Those plans are now off the table.

Joe Vallone’s sketch of the proposed 32-unit affordable housing apartment building at 6 Maple Avenue South.

Kronberg — who has owned the property for 36  owned the gas station for 36 years, and 6 Maple Avenue South since May 1 last yea r— tells “06880” tha after hearing from several neighbors, and seeing a sketch of the proposed apartments, “I didn’t want to be the bad guy that created a large commercial look at the top of Maple South.”

He is unsure what comes next for the property. The 3 bedrooms and studio apartment are rented, but the salon has been empty since Juljen moved to Southport.

“In a perfect world, I’d like to fix it up,” he says. “Make it super-nice, maybe like an old-fashioned barber shop, maybe with apartments or a quaint house.”

Redness rues the lost opportunity.”Westport has missed an opportunity to meet the needs and goals outlined in the Plan of Conservation and Development and Affordable Housing Plan,” he wrote on Tuesday to Planning & Zoning director Michelle Perillie.

“A well-known, long-term, local Westport resident with a proven track record in town was preparing to leverage his expertise to help provide true workforce housing. Joe Vallone was days away from our pre-app meeting with the Planning & Zoning Commission when the property owner reneged on selling the property.”

(“06880” is your hyper-local source for real estate, political and business news — and much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

The Exxon station, Post Road East at the Maple Avenue South corner.

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Posted in Local business, Local politics, Real estate

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Roundup: Carvel, Donut Crazy, Tulips …

Posted on April 30, 2025 | 19 comments

In what may be the most significant change to the Westport Carvel since a giant ice cream cone was removed from the roof 50 years ago, the iconic sign facing Post Road East has been covered up.

The new sign says, generically, “Soft Serve Ice Cream.”

The owner says the cost of renovating the seems-it’s-been-there-forever building, as requested by Carvel, is too high.

The good news: His supplier remains the same.

Oh no! (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of food: The train has left the Donut Crazy station.

The shop at the eastbound side of the Westport station was served with an eviction notice in January, CT Insider reports. The owner has allegedly not paid rent since last summer. Click here for the full story.

A few of Donut Crazy’s donuts.

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Last night’s Pics of the Day featured 3 gorgeous tulip photos.

Two are the work of Andrew Colabella.

The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member and several colleagues spent 2 years planting bulbs at the Minute Man monument. Westport will enjoy their work for years to come.

Last year, Andrew planted some the 1,500 bulbs donated by the Parks & Recreation Department in the Compo Beach entrance island.

Now he wants to do the entire entrance strip.

Interested in helping? Email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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The “06880” panel on youth sports is 2 weeks from today.

We’ve partnered with Tommy Greenwald — the famed youth adult sports fiction writer, former Staples athlete (and father of 3 athletes) — to present “Fair Play and Foul Behavior: Issues Facing Youth Sports in Today’s World.”

It’s May 14 (7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria).

Topics include the achievement/pressure balance, referee abuse, sport specialization, cost, the “academy” syndrome, myths and realities of college recruiting, and more.

Dan Woog — hey, that’s me! — will moderate the event, which includes time for audience questions. Panelists are:

  • VJ Sarullo, Staples athletic director
  • Dave Smith, father of 4 athletes who writes frequently on youth sports topics
  • Caleb Smith, former Staples quarterback and lacrosse star, now playing football at the University of Connecticut
  • Heather Talbott, PAL girls lacrosse co-president and basketball organizer; former lacrosse player at Lehigh University
  • Mark Pressman, longtime football and softball official
  • And of course Tommy Greenwald himself.

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Congratulations to 3 environmental winners.

Last week, town officials and Sustainable Westport gave Westport Green Building Awards to these owners, for exemplifying sustainable design and construcction:

17 Maple Grove Avenue (owner Scott Harrington). New construction designed and built as net zero energy. All appliances, heating and cooling systems are electric, and use the photovoltaic roof for power. The insulation exceeds codes. A smart home scheduler minimizes HVAC use by scheduling window shades to follow the path of the sun, and limit heavy electronics usage to only off-peak hours.

1 Hockanum Road (owner Thomas Hensel). Home renovation that integrates a PV system that offsets the residence’s power consumption. After an energy audit audit, the owner added attic insulation, weatherstripping, and mechanical and lighting upgrades. The HVAC system was upgraded to include smart thermostats and duct sealing. Insulation was installed on the hot water piping. Retrofit LED lighting fixtures reduce power consumption while providing the same light levels.

142-150 Main Street, Nômade Restaurant (owners Ciara Webster, Patrick Jean). Renovation and reuse of an existing historic structure; uses renewable energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. The roof over the dining terrace features a semi-transparent roof-integrated photovoltaic system. The visibility of the solar panels stimulates the interest of other local business owners and patrons to go solar.

For more information, click here.

Sustainable Westport and 2025 Green Building Award winners.

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The Planning & Zoning Commission continues its discussion of The Hamlet at its next meeting (May 5, 6 p.m., Zoom).

It’s just one agenda item. Members will also discuss the plan by Fairfield County Hunt Club to construct an indoor racquets facility, and a request to convert the former Bank of America building at 980 Post Road East into a Montessori School, among other things.

Meanwhile, the Flood & Erosion Control Board will examine the Hamlet at its next meeting.

The last agenda item for their May 7 meeting (7:30 p.m.; Zoom; meeting ID 823 4909 8338; passcode 954845), is a continuation of the discussion that began April 2.

Part of the proposed Hamlet project, leading to the Saugatuck River.

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How hard is it to make paella?

Basso makes it easy.

The Jesup Road restaurant offers regular classes about the classic dish. With wine and tapas thrown in, what’s not to like?

Sal Liccione took part on Monday, and sent this tasty photo:

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

Next at Basso: a pizza-making class, this Sunday (May 4, 12:30 p.m.). Click here for details.

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Club203’s magical monthly parties continue.

Up next for Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities: Dancing with DJ Joe, (and s’mores, a campfire and pizza), under the stars at Earthplace. Click here for more information.

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Westport has long been a soccer town for kids.

And adults.

There’s even a 50-and-over men’s team here.

They’re as good as their younger counterparts. In fact, a 5-0 state tournament semifinal win on Sunday vaulted them into the Connecticut State Soccer Championship. It’s set for June 8 (4 p.m., Dillon Stadium, Hartford), vs. Greenwich Pumas.

That was quite a semi. Rangers had been undefeated — and unscored upon — in league play.

The 50-and-over final is the second big soccer event that weekend. The day before (June 7), the US men’s national team meets Turkey in a friendly, at Rentschler Field in East Hartford.

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For some reason, wrong-way drivers on Soundview Drive have become an epidemic.

Residents report alarmingly frequent encounters.

The latest was yesterday:

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

Be careful out there!

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Senator Chris Murphy is the keynote speaker at the Center for Children’s Advocacy, at New England’s largest youth legal rights organization’s second annual event.

It’s set for Friday (5:30 p.m.), in Westport. Sponsors include Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder. For more information and to RSVP, email mason.miller@berlinrosen.com.

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Carol Anne Ances shares today’s glorious spring scene, with our many “Westport … Naturally” fans:

(Photo/Carol Anne Ances)

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And finally … today is Walpurgis. In German folklore, tonight (Walpurgisnacht) — May Day eve — is when witches meet on the Brocken mountain, and revel with the Devil.

(There is no need to repent — at least, not if you click here to help support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Danke schön!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Real estate, Sports

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P&Z Hears Hamlet Revisions; Public Reacts

Posted on April 29, 2025 | 23 comments

For all the passions the Hamlet at Saugatuck project inspires, last night’s Planning & Zoning Commission hearing was remarkably civil.

No voices were raised, in the packed Town Hall auditorium.

But objections were.

The session was the P&Z’s first in-person event since COVID. It followed a recent virtual meeting that ended after a Zoom-bomb attack.

Part of the large Town Hall crowd. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

More than 2 hours of comment followed a 90-minute presentation by ROAN Ventures, the developer.

Many speakers — including those representing an opposition group, the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck — raised questions about the size of the proposal, along with parking, traffic and related concerns.

Others — including a Stony Point neighbor who lives directly behind the red brick wall at the eastbound railroad station parking lot — urged approval.

Nearly every speaker acknowledged the need for some kind of redevelopment in the “eyesore” that the Hamlet encompasses: the area surrounding Riverside Avenue at Charles Street, circling around Railroad Place. Many also praised the potential for remediating the contaminants on site, which now includes a dry cleaner. A car dealer previously occupied the spot.

ROAN’s opening presentation including modifications to its previous proposal, after feedback from town regulatory boards.

The new proposal includes 2 “stack” parking garages, with valets. Fees would be $2.50 for the first 2 hours, with annual “unlimited 2-hour parking” on sale to Westporters.

The parking garage would include 277 spaces, 15 more than town regulations require.

ROAN withdrew its previous request to use railroad parking lots. Critics had noted that they are owned by the state, which could change parking rules at any time.

The developers also promised off-site parking for employees, at a location to be determined.

They noted too that they will not reduce the width of Riverside Avenue, as originally planned. They will add seating around the waterfront; combine 2 buldings into 1, and reduce the height.

ROAN would be the town’s highest taxpayer, they said. Meanwhile, their permitting fees would contribute the most money yet to Westport’s affordable housing fund.

The developers raised the specter of an 8-30g project, if this is not approved. That could be denser and larger, with more units, than the Hamlet, they warned. Because of the way that state affordable housing regulation is written, town officials would have no recourse to prevent it.

ROAN also promised to re-examine the results after 6 months of operation, and fix any issues that arise.

Then the audience — which one observer said was the largest since the P&Z debated a medical marijuana facility — had their chance to speak. Some were Representative Town Meeting (RTM) members; others were residents, spread across town from Saugatuck Shores to Greens Farms.

Many thanked the commissioners for the volunteer service. A number of opponents noted that they wanted redevelopment to succeed, and for ROAN’s investors to make money.

Part of the area for the proposed Hamlet development. Riverside Avenue is at the bottom; Charles Street is on the right.

But, opponents said, many issues warrant further discussion, and additional redesigns.

Traffic was a chief concern. Some speakers scoffed at traffic studies, and refigured lights that showed faster times driving through the area.

Others wondered whether those studies had been done during the pandemic, when traffic and railroad parking was lighter than today.

Speakers raised many topics, including police, fire and EMT response times in the area, and out to Saugatuck Shores; open space and river access that could be blocked by nearby buildings; protections during the abatement of contaminated soil; the safety of rowers on the river, due to increased water traffic; the impact on Saugatuck residents and businesses during construction; parking for delivery trucks; potential flooding; sewer capacity, and light and noise pollution.

Countering those speakers, others called the Hamlet a “win” for Saugatuck, and the entire town.

RTM member Jimmy Izzo noted that although the town “won” by preventing 40 units of 8-30g housing on Hiawatha Lane, it lost when lawsuits led to construction of a 157-unit project, currently underway.

Stony Point neighbor Roger Schwanhausser is strongly in favor of the Hamlet. He called it a “gem,” and urged quick passage of the proposal.

“We have one chance to get this right,” one speaker said. “We want this to succeed. Just in a better way than we’ve seen so far.”

The P&Z will continue its discussion on May 5 and 19. Another public hearing may be scheduled, before the commission votes.

(Additional reporting: Catie Campagnino)

(“06880″‘s local reporting is funded by readers like you. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

23 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck

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Roundup: Summer Stroll, SLOBs, STG …

Posted on April 28, 2025 | 18 comments

Last year’s Soundview Summer Stroll was a smash.

All day Sunday, the Compo Beach exit road was closed to traffic. Kids enjoyed games, face painting, a balloon artist and more. Adults ambled, greeting old friends and making new ones.

Bands played. Old Mill Deli provided pizza and gelato. The vibe was Venice (California).

It’s back! This year’s 2nd annual Soundview Summer Stroll is July 27. There’s an extra hour: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Like last year, it’s a gift to the town from “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association.

Mark your calendar. See you there!

Fun for all ages. (Photo/Benji Porosoff)

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If you saw a bunch of teenage boys picking up trash, weeding or doing other work this weekend, they were SLOBs.

As in: Staples Service League of Boys.

Every April, the high schoolers fan out around town, for their Earth Day Service Weekend.

That’s in addition to all the other work they do, all year long, for non-profits and other organizations.

The group below worked with the Westport Downtown Association, to help clean up Parker Harding Plaza.

(Photo/Lee Shufro)

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Also yesterday: VFW Post 399 commemorated its 105th anniversary, celebrating over a century of support to veterans and community.

Established on April 27, 1920, by 11 World War I veterans, the Joseph J. Clinton Veterans of Foreign War post has served Westport’s veteran community ever since.

Private Clinton was a Westporter who gave his life in France on November 7, 1918, just 4 days before the armistice.

“For 105 years, our Post has been more than a gathering place — it’s been a family,” says quartermaster, Phil Delgado.

“We honor Private Clinton’s sacrifice by serving today’s veterans, strengthening community ties, and preserving the memory of those who paved the way for our freedoms.”

VFW Post 399 hosts many events, from Memorial Day ceremonies to monthly community blood drives, plus Jazz at the Post every Thursday. It also partners with nonprofits to advance veterans’ causes.

Celebrating 105 years (from left): Al Strazza, Frank Veno, Phil Delgado, Dennis Rohrmoser.

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Jonathan Grayer has spent his career in education.

As CEO of Kaplan, the 1982 Staples High School and ’86 Harvard University graduate turned the test prep company into the 2nd largest online education provider in the world.

He retired in 2008, then started Imagine Learning. He now serves as CEO. Its digital curriculums make enormous differences in some of the largest and neediest public school districts in America.

Grayer is a philanthropist too. His main passions are cancer research and post-secondary schooling. His Kaplan Educational Foundation — “Rhodes Scholars for Community Colleges” — sends students from 2-year schools to Ivy League and other top universities.

But Grayer has not forgotten his Westport roots. And he knows that in this affluent community, plenty of families cannot afford the enormous (and skyrocketing) cost of college.

In 2022 he jump-started a Staples Tuition Grants award, from the Class of 1982. It’s become a shining example of how SHS alums can give back to their school and community, long after they graduated.

To learn more about Staples Tuition Grants — and/or contribute — click here.

To watch an interview of Grayer, at the ASU+GSV summit — where over 10,000 educators, workforce leaders and innovators discussed the future education (and how to ensure access to it) — click below.

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Tickets are selling fast for a variety of upcoming Westport Country Playhouse events. They include:

“The Wizard of Oz” (June 21, 1 and 4 p.m.; all tickets $30). From the same company that brought “Pinkalicious The Musical” to the WCP stage.

“Karma Kabaret” (June 21, 8 p.m.; all tickets $20): A creative celebration of life — described as “Robin Williams meets Streisand meets TED Talks meets Einstein meets Buddha meets Broadway meets creator M. Zavidow.

Rosanne Cash with John Leventhal (July 16, 8 p.m.; tickets $125, $115, $98).

Click here for more information, tickets, and details of many other upcoming events.

Rosanne Cash and her husband John Leventhal.

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1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and ROAN Ventures’ Rodrigo Real are part of the annual “Real Estate Outlook” panel. The event is May 20 (8:30 a.m., SoNo Collection M&T Bank, Norwalk).

The theme is “Breaking New Ground: The Projects That Will Impact Fairfield County.” The moderator is Eric Bernheim. He heads up the real estate and land use practice at Westport’s FLB Law, which co-sponsors the event. Click here to register, and for more information.

The real estate outlook for Fairfield County includes The Hamlet at Saugatuck project. 

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Westport author Meg Serino’s debut novel “Annapurna” will be published May 6.

In it, a woman returns to the base camp of the famous Nepalese mountain to confront events leading to her best friend’s tragic death there 20 years earlier. She explores the nature of their friendship, the meaning of love, and the unexpected consequences of what is spoken — and what is not. Click here for more information.

Meg Serino

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“Cheese Fries & Chili Dips” — Weston native Chris Fuller’s one-man “hilarious and heartfelt story of a pro golfer’s bipolar journey to wellness” — is set for 2 performances at Greenfield Hill Congregational Church (May 16 and 17).

A 6:30 party precedes the 7:30 p.m. show.

Tickets are $10. Call 203-259-5596 to purchase.

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Spring foliage continues to fill us with joy and wonder.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image comes from the ever-changing Riverwalk, outside the Library.

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … in honor of an upcoming show at the Westport Country Playhouse (story above):

(It doesn’t take courage, or a brain or heart, to support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. All you have to do is click here. Like Dorothy, you know how important home is.)

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Real estate, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Hamlet Meeting, Budget Votes, Selectwomen Bucket Challenge,

Posted on April 26, 2025 | 2 comments

Yesterday’s Roundup item on upcoming town meetings about the Hamlet at Saugatuck project confused some readers. Here’s some clarity:

This Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (April 28, 6 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) begins with a discussion on developer ROAN Ventures’ amended presentation. Public comment will follow.

Also ahead: the Conservation Commission on Wednesday (April 30, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) and Flood & Erosion Control Board (May 6, 7 p.m., Zoom).

To view documents, drawings and other material related to The Hamlet,
click here, then scroll down.

Artist’s rendering of the Hamlet project, looking toward the Saugatuck River.

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Speaking of town meetings: There’s been very little debate over the budgets this year.

On May 5, the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) is expected to give final approval to the 2025-26 Board of Education budget.

The next night (May 6), they’ll do the same for the town budget.

Both meetings ae set for 7:30 p.m., in the Town Hall auditorium.

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The #SpeakYourMind ice bucket challenge reached new heights on Thursday.

After I got soaked — thanks, Dave Briggs, for nominating me to help raise funds and awareness for youth mental health issues! — I dared Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore to do the same.

The 1st and 2nd Selectwomen quickly responded. Like me, they had a blast getting wet — and passing along the challenge.

They named the staff at Positive Directions. It’s an inspired choice. The Westport organization provides counseling and support to people and families struggling with mental health and substance abuse disorders.

So how did our town leaders do? Click here, or click on the link below.

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Today — despite the weather — is the final day for the Compo Beach playground rebuild.

Volunteers — skilled and unskilled — are welcome. Everyone will be put to work.

How’s it coming? Check out these screenshots, from Cindy Blount’s video:

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Speaking of the weather: It postponed today’s scheduled Westport Clean-up Day until next Saturday (May 3).

Sustainable Westport is one group taking part. They’ll meet at the Longshore pavilion, and clean up the waterfront from 2 to 4 p.m. Trash bags will be provided. Click here to sign up.

Of course, residents are free to pick up trash and other debris today, too.

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For nearly 120 years, the Westport Woman’s Club has served our town.

Their first projects were cleaning horse manure-filled town streets, planting trees and laying sidewalks.

Their most recent was awarding $50,000 in grants to 19 Fairfield County non-profits. They include:

  • The Workplace
  • Malta House
  • St. Catherine Center for Special Needs
  • Caroline House
  • The Child & Family Guidance Center
  • Clothes to Kids of Fairfield County
  • Horizon at Connecticut State Norwalk
  • The Exchange Club Center
  • Bridgeport Rescue Mission
  • Greens Farms Garden Club
  • Human Service Council
  • VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399
  • Food Rescue US
  • Nourish Bridgeport
  • Applied Behavioral Rehab Institute
  • Homes with Hope
  • Team Woofgang
  • Westport Public Art Collections
  • Star Lighting the Way.

Congratulations to all the recipients. And thank you, Westport Woman’s Club!

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Jazz — America’s unique musical genre — is well over a century old.

JazzFC — the Jazz Society of Fairfield County — is only 3. But the non-profit celebrated in style Thursday night, at VFW Post 399.

Their weekly session turned into a “Birthday Blowout Bash,” with over 25 musicians and a New Orleans-style dinner.

Even better: the night raised money for JazzFC’s youth clinics, college scholarships and senior outreach programs, through Fairfield County.

We’re honored to pass the news along, because they don’t often toot their own horn.

Saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall (far left) has led the “Jazz at the Post” series since its inception. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotographix)

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The school year just got shorter.

On Thursday, the Board of Education voted to change the last day for students from June 16 to June 13.

That will be the best Friday the 13th ever, for Westport boys and girls.

Staples High School graduate Ari Lehman, as Jason Voorhees.

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Church Lane will not be closed to traffic until May 15.

But these artists got a jump on outdoor fun Thursday night.

The man used charcoal; the woman used watercolors.

And check out the rig on his car, to hold the easel!

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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It’s time for another “Westport … Naturally” tulip shot.

Sure, we’ve shown them before. But they don’t last forever. And a photo like Mark Yurkiw’s — showing his Cross Highway bounty — is too good to pass up.

(Photo/Mark Yurkiw)

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And finally … yeah, you knew this was coming too:

(It’s another busy weekend in Westport. If you’ve got a free minute — and that’s all it takes — please click here to support the hyper-local blog that helps make this, and every other weekend, great. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Parks & Rec, Hamlet, VFW …

Posted on April 25, 2025 | 5 comments

The Parks & Recreation Department oversees 4 beaches*, 21 parks, and 14 athletic fields.

Each one — from the big boys like Winslow and Baron’s South, to teeny Machamux Park and the often-forgotten Burr Farms fields — has its passionate admirers.

And each one could use a bit (or a lot) of improvement.

Westport’s beaches, parks and athletic fields, displayed on an easel at Town Hall.

Parks & Rec director Erik Barbieri took a first step toward understanding what Westporters want last night. He hosted the first Westport Parks Master Plan Community Workshop, at Town Hall.

Fifty residents heard two 2 consultants — BL Companies and Sports Facilities Advisors — discuss their work. They divided attendees into 2 groups, to provide initial input on what works well, what doesn’t, and what they’d like to see.

Westporters offered a wide range of comments. The consultants listened, asked questions, and took plenty of notes.

Still ahead: stakeholder interviews, an online survey, and workshops.

Nothing was decided last night. It won’t be, for a while.

But Barbieri wants Westporters to have their say. He wants to listen.

*Canal Beach on Saugatuck Shores is the one you may never have heard of.

Parks & Rec Erik Barbieri introduces last night’s Master Plan Community Workshop. (Photos/Dan Woog)

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The Hamlet at Saugatuck has spawned nearly as many meetings as it has opinions.

Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (April 28, 6 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) will include a discussion on developer ROAN Ventures’ amended presentation. Public comment will follow.

Also ahead: the Conservation Commission on Wednesday (April 30, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) and Flood & Erosion Control Board (May 6, 7 p.m., Zoom).

To view documents, drawings and other material related to The Hamlet,
click here, then scroll down.

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Speaking of Saugatuck: VFW Post 399 — located just up Riverside Avenue from the proposed Hamlet project — dedicates its new marina this Sunday (April 27).

The 1:05 p.m. start is a nod to the Westport VFW’s 105th anniversary.

The public is invited.

Dredging at the VFW has been completed.

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Speaking of which: With dredging of the new dock behind VFW Post 399 completed, those boats have made their last trip on the river.

But a new vessel is on the water. The Army Corps of Engineers has begun gathering data, to help with permits for the upcoming (larger, and government-funded) Saugatuck River dredging project.

So — for a while at least — the temporary Cribari Bridge openings will continue.

Army Corps vessel, passing through the Cribari Bridge. (Hat tip and photo/Robbie Guimond)

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As the Compo Beach playground rebuild nears the finish line, organizers want to make sure that everyone who wants to help, can.

Volunteers can now drop in for as much (or as little) time as they can give, today (Friday) or tomorrow. One hour, 2 — or an entire morning or afternoon — if it works for you, it works for them.

And you don’t have to sign up online (though if you want to, click here). You can just stop by the registration desk at the playground. They’ll put you to work.

“Every set of hands makes a huge difference,” they say. “We’re grateful for any time you can give.”

The new Compo Beach playground nears completion. (Drone photo/RB Benson)

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What do high school students think about their unique identity — shaped by race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and more — and how that identity contributes to Westport’s character?

And how well do they express those fraught, yet important, ideas?

On Monday (6 p.m., Westport Library), the public gets a chance to hear from students themselves. The winners of TEAM Westport’s Teen Diversity Essay Contest will be announced.

They’ll accept their prize checks — and read their essays.

For over a dozen years, the ceremony has offered an inspiring window into the way today’s young people think, and view the world.

And how well they express those views.

If Monday is like many previous years, the answer will be: Very, very well.

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It’s not the biggest issue the Planning & Zoning Commission deals with (see Hamlet story above), but at a recent meeting they voted in favor of extending — for 2 more years — a special permit to allow the continued parking of First Student school buses at Coleytown and Bedford schools.

There seem to be no issues with using those spaces — and more, at the Greens Farms train station. And moving the parking away from Post Road East, behind the Mobil gas station opposite Playhouse Square, used by the previous vendor Dattco, has done wonders for afternoon traffic in that area.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Just added to the Levitt Pavilion summer lineup:

Dark Star Orchestra (July 19). For over 20 years and 3,000 shows, they’ve continued the Grateful Dead’s live concert experience. Each set list is different; each reproduced the legendary band’s style and soundm while offering their own interpretations. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Josh Ritter & the Royal City Band, with Bhi Bhiman (August 20). Ritter is one of today’s most thought and prolific voices. The New York Times calls him “a linger of serious ideas and high-flown imagery.” Bhiman is also an acclaimed singer/ songwriter. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Josh Ritter & the Royal City Band.

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Graduation and summer camp are joyful times.

If your family can afford it.

Westport’s Department of Human Services makes sure that all local families can. Each year at this time, they launch season fundraising efforts.

“In today’s economic climate, affordable childcare — especially in summer — is more than a convenience. It’s a necessity,” says director Elaine Daignault.

“Camp programs ensure children have access to safe, enriching experiencesl while allowing parents to maintain employment and financial stability.”

“Camps offer so much more than supervision,” adds youth and family specialist Annette D’Augelli. “It gives kids the chance to form friendships, build confidence, and create cherished memories in a supportive, structured environment. For parents — especially single-parent households — reliable, affordable care during summer break makes it possible to keep their jobs and put food on the table.”

A second program — the Ceremonies & Celebrations Fund — provides gift cards to income-eligible 8th and 12th grade graduates, so that families can mark important achievements with pride. Donations help purchase a graduation outfit, cover the cost of a celebratory meal, or simply allow families to honor their children’s hard work and milestones with dignity.

Click here to donate online, or mail a check to: Department of Human Services, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. Questions? Call 203-341-1050, or email adaugelli@westportct.gov.

Summer camp is important for youngsters — and their working parents. (Photo/Jaime Bairaktaris)

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One of Westport’s most popular traditions, the Minute Man Race  — actually, a 10K run, 5K run, 5K walk and kids’ fun run, plus a Kids’ Zone with games and entertainment — returns this Sunday (April 27, Compo Beach, 8 a.m.).

There are prizes for top finishers in each age category, plus food trucks, beer, a DJ, bounce house and more. Beach stickers are not required.

All net proceeds benefit the Westport Young Woman’s League Grants program. Last year, they awarded $65,000 to 9 non-profits doing vital work across Fairfield County.

Click here for more information, and to register.

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Speaking of outdoor fun: Westport Softball has drafted a big name to throw out the first pitch, at tomorrow’s opening day (Saturday, 9 a.m., Meyer Field, Compo Road North).

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will do the honors, inaugurating the season for more than 130 playrs from pre-K through 8th grade.

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Content Studio has become one of Westport’s premier event spaces.

The Westport Downtown Association gathered there yesterday, for a combination social and informational meeting.

A few dozen businesses heard WDA president Maxx Crowley and his staff describe annual events like the Fine Arts Festival, Westoberfest and Holiday Stroll, and learned how — whatever their products or services — they can be part of the downtown community.

Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley, onstage at Content Studio.

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“Westport … Naturally” doesn’t get more gorgeous than this Old Road scene:

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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And finally … today is ANZAC Day.

The important Australia and New Zealand holiday — honoring military members from those countries who served and died in wars around the world — grew out of the brutal Gallipoli battle, waged in Turkey during World War I.

That campaign is memorialized in one of Australia’s most famous songs. The message is anti-war — but the sacrifice of those soldiers comes through loud and clear.

(From Saugatuck to Australia, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. If you like our hyper-local coverage — and the way we tie it together globally — please click here to supporto us. Thank you!)

 

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