Tag Archives: Department of Public Works

Unsung Hero #430

Alert — and civic-minded — “06880” reader Bob Weingarten writes:

Early yesterday morning, I saw that a stop sign at Hillandale Road and Morningside Drive South was on the ground. It must have been knacked down during the night.

Rather then wait until it was repaired, I followed the adage, “If you see something, say something.”

Down — but not for long. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)

I called Joe Izzo of the Public Works Department at about 8:30, and left a message.

By early afternoon, the sign was back up.

I want to compliment the town for their rapid service, in this potential hazard situation.

PS “If you see something, say something” is something every Westporter should follow. 

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Unsung Heroes #423

Two days after the Blizzard of 2026, this one’s a no-brainer.

Our Department of Public Works was all over that snow.

Manning 17 trucks — each filled with 8 tons of sand and salt — they cleared over 120 miles of town streets, making multiple trips over 48 hours.

They’re also responsible for clearing 24 miles of sidewalks, though that will take longer.

Before the first flakes fell, they even took time to record this video, explaining what they do, and how they do it.

First responders were on high alert too. They were ready for anything, and everything.

As soon as the snow stopped falling, firefighters fanned out. They began shoveling around hydrants. It’s a job residents should do — but our Fire Department makes certain it gets done.

Here’s a typical scene, from Center Street:

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

Bottom line: We knew there would be a blizzard.

It came.

But thanks to our amazing Highway Department, DPW and Fire Department, we’re already back close to normal.

Our entire town’s hats are off to you, for your amazing work.

Now get some rest!

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PS: This just in from Kevin Desjardins, moments before we posted the story above:

“I’d like to nominate all the people who have taken time to plow a path (no matter how small) along the sidewalks in front of their houses.

“While residents are not obligated to do so, this act of kindness for the community is greatly appreciated, and provides temporary safe walking conditions until the DPW crews can finish clearing the sidewalks.

“It’s acts like these that make me feel like  🎶 We’re all in this together 🎶…. even if it is just my morning commute to work!”

Myrtle Avenue sidewalk. (Photo/Kevin Desjardins)

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Roundup: Downtown Cleanup, CT Business, VersoFest Heartbreaker …

It takes a village — to clean a village.

With an enormous amount of snow, and temperatures remaining well below freezing, cleaning up from the January 25 storm was difficult.

Plowed, congealed piles made walking and parking difficult downtown.

So on Tuesday night, SCA Crowley — led by vice president Maxx Crowley, president of the Westport Downtown Association — joined forces with Westport’s Department of Public Works team.

SCA spent 3 hours on Main Street removing snow.

It was then hauled away by DPW director Peter Ratkiewich’s crew, led by superintendent Joe Izzo and crew captain Dave Smith. Public Works followed up by salting roads and sidewalks.

It’s much easier to park now — which means it’s far easier to drive and walk, too. Thanks to all who helped!

One view of the Main Street cleanup …

… and another. (Hat tip and photos/Andrew Colabella)

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“Your State, Your Business” — a 3-part event bringing 3 of Connecticut’s constitutional officers to Westport to discuss issues regarding the state and how they relate to business (and residents) is coming to town.

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and Westport Library are collaborating on the series.

It kicks off on March 5 with Comptroller Sean Scanlon. Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas follows on March 19. Attorney General William Tong is the final speaker, April 2. All sessions begin at 11 a.m.

Each event includes a presentation by the officer, a moderated discussion, and questions from the audience. It’s free, but registration is required.

For more information, including registration, click here.  

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Heartbreaker!

Tom Petty won’t be at this year’s VersoFest.

But his daughter will be.

Adria Petty — a noted producer and music video director — will be at the Westport Library on March 28 (3 p.m.). She’ll discuss her father’s legacy, with music and technology pioneer Sam Hendel.

Petty works as a managing partner at the Tom Petty estate with her family and the remaining members of Tom Petty’s band and operations team, preserving their archive of 40 years of American music.

She has directed videos for recording artists like Beyonce, Coldplay and Rihanna. She has also done commercial spots for brands such as Lancôme, Target, Converse, Hershey’s, McDonald’s and more. 

Her appearance is one of many free events, at the 5th annual VersoFest. Click here for the full lineup.

Adria Petty

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A reminder: Friends of the Senior Center are sponsoring their 25th annual Super Bowl tailgate party this Sunday (February 8, 1 p.m.).

All ages are welcome to enjoy hot dogs, chips and dessert, plus a chance to meet Staples High School’s championship boys soccer and rugby teams.

PAL and Staples cheerleaders will perform.

And there’s a “guess the final score” contest, with prizes.

All ages are invited. Registration required by noon Sunday: 203-341-5098.

The state champion “futbol” team will be at the Senior Center football Super Bowl party on February 8. (Photo/John Walker)

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Shoot for the stars!

The Westport Astronomical Society is introducing a new STEM opportunity for students in grades 9-12. It’s run through the Northeast Occultation Network (NEON).

Participants will learn to operate telescopes, observe and capture astronomical data from asteroid occultations, and contribute to professional astronomy research under the training of astrophysicist Dr. Kevin Green of the University of New Haven.

Students will work with the WAS team to collect, analyze and submit research-grade data to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

There are 3 options, based on course length and cost. Click here for more information.

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I know less than nothing about dog shows.

So when alert “06880” reader Chris Grimm sent me a video clip about Gryphon (click here), I had to ask for details.

Turns out that’s his dog. He competes in agility.

His partner — Chris’, not Gryphon’s — handles the dog during runs. The Westminster Kennel Club hosts a big agility trial — the Westminster Masters Agility Championship — which ended Tuesday night.

Gryphon’s Standard run begins at the 12:00 mark in the video below.

Chris reports: “He froze a bit at the weave polls and Leslie took a spill by the tunnel, but Gryphon did a great job of finishing.”

In the video below, Gryphon’s jumpers run starts after 12:30. “Except for wandering off to say hello, it was a good run,” Chris says. “I can’t believe he got his Q for that.

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Congratulations to Jessica Bram!

The founder of Westport Writers’ Workshop, and noted memoir and creative nonfiction workshop instructor, has just practiced what she preaches.

Her new memoir, “West End Avenue,” has just been published.

Amazon describes it:

A young girl’s world is upended when her divorced mother of 3 marries a widowed father of 4.

Set against the backdrop of Manhattan’s Upper West Side, this evocative memoir traces the uneasy transformation of a blended household – where strangers become siblings bound by shared trauma, quiet acts of loyalty, and the unspoken bonds forged in childhood.

Click here for more information, and to order.

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Orthopedic surgeon Dr. William Conaway was this week’s Westport Rotary Club guest speaker. Among his topics: the growing role of robotics in his specialty.

Dr. William Conaway (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between January 28 and February 3.

A 28-year-old Westport man was charged with interfering with an officer, following a complaint that he verbally threated an employee at Whole Foods. He fled, but was located nearby, and taken into custody based on repeated resistance to requests to stay away from the store.

A 64-year-old Hamden man was charged with larceny and criminal trespass, following an investigation into the theft of $110.31 of energy drinks from Stop & Shop. He had been formally warned earlier not to return to the store. He was held on a $25,000 bond.

A 53-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with failure to appear, after panhandling on the I-95 northbound ramp. He was held on a $25,000 bond.

A 28-year-old Westport man was charged with failure to appear, after being held in Pennsylvania on an unrelated matter. He was held on a $15,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Texting while driving: 14 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 11
  • Failure to renew registration: 11
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 7
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 7
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Speeding in a school zone, 2nd offense: 1
  • Speeding in a school zone: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Improper turn: 1
  • Unsafe backing: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Violation of readable license plates: 1
  • Failure to return license plates: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to reinstate license within 60 days: 1
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1

Lots of license plate citations recently. That’s no laughing matter.

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Because the heaviest snow usually falls during in February, Indigenous tribes of the North and East called this month’s full moon the “snow moon.”

When it rose the other day, there was indeed snow on the ground — from January.

Candice Cardenas snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” image above Old Road.

(Photo/Candice Cardenas)

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And finally … in honor of Tom Petty’s daughter’s appearance at VersoFest (story above):

(From dog shows to outer space, “06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” If you’re a part of our online community — and you’re reading this, so you are — please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Caroling Crawl, Christmas Tree Pick-up, Basso Art …

If you dine in Saugatuck this Saturday, don’t be surprised if carolers come to your table.

You can even book a reservation, to make sure your evening is merry and bright.

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Saugatuck Caroling Crawl is set for December 20 (6 to 8 p.m.).

Staples High School’s elite Orphenians will sing a medley of songs, at 14 venues.

They begin at the Boathouse (Saugatuck Rowing Club), before heading to The Bridge, Kawa Ni, The Whelk, Tutti’s and the Black Duck.

Then it’s off to the train station, and Tarantino, Blu Olive and Romanacci. The final destinations are Riko’s Pizza, Zucca Gastrobar, Rizzuto’s, Viva Zapata and Little Pub @Dunville’s. 

Joyeux Noël. And bon appétit!

Staples Orphenians: stars of the Saugatuck Caroling Crawl.

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Meanwhile, what will you do after Christmas?

Specifically, how will you get rid of that beautiful (but dried-out) tree — in an environmentally responsible way?

Scout Troops 39 and 139 will do it for you. It’s a win-win-win: convenient and affordable pick-up for residents; free mulch and conservation material for the town — and the only fundraiser of the year for the Scouts.

The event is all day, on January 10. Troops will pick up over 800 trees, in every neighborhood.

The suggested donation of $25 per tree — less than most services — helps fund a full year of Scout meetings, experiences and gear.

Click here for details, and to sign up. 

Who you gonna call? Scout Troops 39 and 139!

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As Basso prepares to close its doors — its last day is Thursday — they invite residents to “bring our spirit into your home.”

The striking art that has hung on the walls of the Jesup Road restaurant is for sale (see below).

Pieces will go to the highest offer, All works must be picked up by 10 a.m. Friday. Email contactbassocafe@gmail.com.

“Sofia Mediterráneo,” 9×7′, canvas; starting offer, $2000

“Barcelona,” 6×3.5″, canvas; starting offer, $1000

“La Corrida,” 7×3.5′, canvas; starting offer, $600

“Still Life Multicolor,” 10×6′, canvas; starting offer, $1900

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Michael Kopko’s theater story comes full circle.

At Staples High School, the 1976 graduate was very involved with Players. He then co-founded a theater company in Massachusetts, and produced, directed and acted in an Equity troupe before retiring a year ago.

Mark Shanahan — now the Westport Country Playhouse artistic director — was a good friend of Kopko’s company; he directed, wrote and acted in many productions.

Kopko worked at the Playhouse while growing up. He always dreamed of performing on the legendary stage, but never got the chance.

His daughter is now an actor. She lives in Los Angeles, and over the years has worked with Shanahan.

Kopko was in the audience Sunday — proud of his daughter Alexandra, his friend Mark Shanahan, and the Playhouse where it all began.

Michael and Alexandra Kopko, at her Playhouse dressing room.

But that’s not all.

Kopko’s nostalgic weekend began the night before. He attended a caroling party — an annual tradition for over 40 years — hosted by Staples grads and musicians Brad Peterson (SHS ’75) and his wife Abby Anderson Peterson (’76).

A number of former Players and Orphenians were there — including the Petersons’ children Katie, Sarah and Scott. All are Staples grads too (2000, ’04 and ’12, respectively).

“Old” Orphenians. Brad Peterson is front right; Abby Peterson holds the candle.

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Also this past weekend: the first snowfall of the season.

Did you notice how quickly and well the streets were plowed?

Maybe not. But Wendy Kleros and Claudia Coplen — co-chairs of the Westport Commission for Senior Services — did. They write:

“We extend our gratitude and appreciation to the entire Department of Public Works eam for their outstanding work clearing the roads and public parking lots.

“Their diligence and responsiveness make a meaningful difference for our community each and every day, particularly at the Senior Center, where safe and timely access is essential.

“Because of their efforts, older adults, staff, and visitors arrived safely and continued their daily routines without disruption. That kind of reliability brings real peace of mind, and reflects a deep commitment to public service.

“Their behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed. But its impact is felt by everyone, especially our senior residents who depend on clear, accessible pathways.

“We thank them for their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to keeping Westport safe and moving forward, no matter the conditions.”

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Looking to buy a holiday gift at the AT&T Store?

You’ll have to go somewhere other than Westport.

Sal Liccione reports that the store at 180 Post Road East — opposite Finalmente and Jeera Thai — has closed.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

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The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is Thursday (December 18, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).

It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.

Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.

RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.

PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!

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Also at the VFW (as it is every Thursday): Jazz at the Post.

This week, guitarist Kenny Wessel — for years a key member of Ornette Coleman’s band, and now a Westport favorite and frequent collaborator with saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — headlines the 2 shows (7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information).

Also sitting in: bassist Boots Maleson and drummer Mike Campenni.

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Longtime Westport resident Margery Silk died peacefully on Friday, at home. She turned 101 just 3 days earlier.

A third generation Californian — her great-grandparents founded the railroad and lumber town of Truckee in 1863 — she was valedictorian of her 1941 class at South Pasadena/San Marino High School.

Margery began her studies at Stanford University, then earned an undergraduate degree from UCLA and a master’s in art history from NYU.

She met her future husband — New Zealander and Life magazine photographer George Silk — while skiing at Stowe, Vermont.

Margery traveled the world pursuing her interests in art, architecture, birds and other animals, music and culinary pursuits.

Margery was a member of the Westport Garden Club, Bronx Botanical Gardens, the Bronx Zoo, and local tennis and bridge groups. At Cedar Point Yacht Club she crewed for her husband.

She was also active in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Aspetuck Land Trust (founding member), Friends of Sherwood Island, and Connecticut Audubon Society.

Her family calls Margery “that lady in tennis shoes and tennis skirt who came of age in the 1960s and ’70s, and who championed the ‘good fights’ by writing letters in many directions.” She helped lead the charge to defeat a plan to build a nuclear power plant on Cockenoe Island, in the 1960s.

Margery is survived by her children Stuart Silk, Georgiana Silk, and Shelley Silk
Wehrly and their spouses; grandchildren: Michael and Alexis Silk; Bryan, Kate
and Alexander Liggett, and Stuart Wehrly, Liza Wehrly Andrews and Christopher Wehrly and their spouses, and 12 great-grandchildren.

A private celebration of life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Aspetuck Land Trust and Friends of Sherwood Island State Park.

Margery Silk

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Doug Brill. He spotted these beauties just hanging out on Saugatuck Shores, during the weekend snow:

(Photo/Doug Brill)

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And finally … the murders of Rob Reiner and his wife saddened the talented actor and director’s many friends.

He gave us many memorable moments. Two very different films stand out:

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Get Ready For Winter: Snow Plowing 101

But Westport’s Department of Public Works is ready. They say:

Plow routes: There are 124 miles of roads in Westport, and only a small team of drivers to clear them of snow and ice. Main roads are plowed first, with special attention given to steep hills and difficult intersections. Then come side streets, followed by dead-end streets. Plow drivers make a single pass on side streets to keep them open, but their primary focus is to keep the main roads open for emergency vehicles and the safety of all Westport residents.

Do not pass snow plows: Never pass or follow a plow too closely. Snow plows are massive vehicles, with wide blind spots that cannot maneuver easily or stop quickly. Plowing can create a cloud of snow around the truck, limiting visibility and creating whiteout conditions for passing motorists. It can also create a ridge of snow between lanes that makes passing inadvisable. Reducing speeds when clearing and treating roads allows plow drivers to better control road salt treatments, saving taxpayer money and minimizing environmental impact.

Plow drivers: Driving a plow is challenging. It requires hours of intense concentration to navigate massive vehicles in dark, cold and difficult weather conditions. DPW thanks you for driving with caution.

Blocked driveways: Plows angle plow blades to the driver’s right. This allows drivers to direct snow off the road and onto the shoulder. Plow drivers are not able to prevent snow from accumulating in front of individual driveways while safely and efficiently clearing snow from roads. Snow that accumulates on, or at the base of, private driveways is the responsibility of the homeowner to clear.

Private plowing: The town prohibits snowplow contractors from leaving snow from driveways or parking lots on town streets. If there is no alternative to pushing snow into the street, the private driver must re-plow the street until it is safe for residents to drive. This may not mean bare pavement, but should be no worse than before the snowplow driver began plowing.

Business sidewalks: Per town ordinance, businesses are responsible for keeping all sidewalks along their property clear of snow and ice.

Mailbox damage: The town will only repair or replace mailboxes and posts struck by a plow blade. Mailboxes and posts must be able to withstand the rigors of snow removal, including the force of snow directed from the street onto the roadside. The town will not repair or replace mailboxes and posts damaged by the force of projected snow. Damage from private plowing contractors is not the town’s responsibility.

Questions: Call Public Works: 203-341-1120.

(Photo/Luke Hammerman)

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Unsung Heroes #408

Alert — and grateful — “06880” reader Lis Hisgen writes:

As a volunteer for the Homes for Hope food pantry, the other day I was carrying a heavy box of groceries across a parking lot.

I tripped on torn-up asphalt, and dropped my keys into a grate.

Not knowing what else to do, I called my Public Works colleague. It was after regular hours, but that didn’t stop Eric Lee from driving back to work to get a magnet.

Another guy, Ben Lee — they’re father and son —  also drove back to Westport to help in case they had to remove the grate. Luckily the magnet did the trick, and my keys were rescued!

I’m lucky to have such kind and helpful co-workers.

Eric and Ben Lee: Public Works heroes.

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Roundup: Senator Murphy, Earthplace, CT Challenge …

Senator Chris Murphy was at the Saugatuck Rowing Club yesterday.

He was the keynote speaker at the Center for Children’s Advocacy’s “Giving Children a Voice” event.

The CCA is not well known in Fairfield County. But it’s New England’s largest children’s legal rights organization. As Murphy noted, it does crucial legal work, helping young people and their parents navigate issues in education, healthcare, housing and the courts.

Many politicians could have mailed it in. But Murphy cares passionately about CCA’s work. He noted its increasing importance these days, as both government support systems and funding sources are cut, and under attack.

Murphy and other speakers described the important role Westporters can play with CCA, both financially and by promoting its valuable work. Click here to learn more.

Murphy was introduced by his father, who the senator said instilled in him a concern for people who lack access to resources and power.

The event also included a powerful and personal speech by a Bridgeport mother, whose life has been changed by CCA’s work with herself and her children.

Senator Chris Murphy, at the Saugatuck Rowing Club. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The Startup Westport “Innovation in Sports” panel on Wednesday — with residents Rick Cordella (president of NBC Sports) and Rob Simmelkjaer (New York Road Runners CEO), moderated by Staples High School graduate Andrew Marchand — was fresh, fun, insightful and educational.

All 3 participants were honest and entertaining. They talked about their work, the technology and innovation behind it, the future, and their personal successes and failures.

If you missed it — or want to see it again — you’re in luck. The Westport Library’s Verso Studios crew taped it. Click below to see:

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Earthplace’s calendar is filled with events.

But May may be its busiest month ever. There are several events this weekend, and others in the days ahead. They include:

Birding Walk (Saturday, May 3, 8 to 9 a.m.; suggested donation $10): Follow an ecologist along the trails.

Forage the Wild (Saturday, May 3, 12 to 1:30 p.m.; free): Plant-based chef Chrissy Tracey and “Yard To Table” podcasters Trevor Crafts and Ellen Scherer Crafts lead a fun walk.

Bees and Blooms: Spring Wildflower ID Walk (Saturday, May 3, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; members $8, non-members $10): Enjoy the native plant courtyard and woods; learn about spring ephemerals and other early blooming flowers.

Bird Habitat Restoration (Sunday, May 4, 11 a.m.): Help remove invasive plants.

Winged Wonders (Sunday, May 4, 1 p.m.; free with admission): Experience birds of prey outside their enclosures.

Canoe Paddle (May 17, 1 to 3 p.m.: members $50 per canoe, non-members $60 per canoe): Head down the Saugatuck River in search of osprey, egrets, turtles and more.

Plein Air Painting Workshop (May 24, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.; members $15, non-members $20): Learn the basics of landscape painting, along Earthplace’s meadows and trails.

Fresh Bounty: Spring Foraging (May 25, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; members $8, non-members $10): Walk through the sanctuary.

Kids Night Out: Pollinator Party (May 30, 6 to 9 p.m.; members $50 per child, non-members $60 per child): An evening of fun and learning; ages 5-12.

Click here for more details, and to register.

Bees and blooms at Earthplace

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Sheri Gordon writes: “I’m so happy to see Westport taking proactive measures to protect runners, bikers, walkers and even drivers from accidents due to bushes growing in the town’s right of way, blocking sight lines.”

She sent the photo below. Sheri also asks “06880” readers who live in areas with lots of foot traffic to coordinate with the Department of Public Works to ensure the safety of all.

Public Works crew cleans up sightlines at the end of Soundview Drive. (Photo/Sheri Gordon)

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Meanwhile, around the corner, a new sidewalk is being built on Hillspoint Road.

As with all construction, there are rules.

Westporters are asked not to step on or over the curb. Don’t touch it.

And definitely — definitely — no licking the curb.

(Photo/Matt Murray; hat tip: John McGrath)

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Whether you got a chance to help build the new Compo Beach playground or not, there’s one last volunteer opportunity left.

Both skilled and unskilled workers are needed today (Saturday, May 3), from now through 4 p.m. Hands are needed to put benches in place.

“Bring your gloves, your enthusiasm and your community pride,” organizers say.

One more day needed!

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For years, the CT Challenge bike ride has been one of summer’s biggest events.

Funds raised from the 25-, 50- and 100-mile jaunts through the Connecticut countryside raised tens of millions of dollars to help cancer survivors rebuild, improve and prolong their lives through exercise, nutrition, mind-body health and support programs.

This year’s event will be very different. It’s moving from a physical ride to a virtual one.

And instead of one day, bikers will have the entire month of July to ride and raise money.

Riders can go solo, or as part of a team. They pick their dates, routes and paces — any time during July. Click here for details.

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MyTeam Triumph — the non-profit that pairs volunteers with people with disabilities, so all can enjoy road races and swimming events — has 2 upcoming events.

One is new; the other is a favorite standby.

For the first time ever, myTeam Triumph participates in the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford 5K. It’s Thursday evening, May 15 at Mill River Park.

Three days later, it’s the always popular Bloomin’ Metric cylcing tour (not a race!). It’s set for Sunday, May 18 at Sherwood Island State Park.

To volunteer — or race — or learn more about these and other events, click here. Questions? Email KZiebell@myteamtriumph-ct.org, or call (203) 216-1146.

It takes a team — in this case, myTeam Triumph.

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Sorelle Gallery’s next show features landscapes by Karin Olah.

Inspired by the colors and light of coastal landscapes, the South Carolina artist creates multi-layered paintings with acrylic paint, hand-dyed fabric, and vintage textiles.

A reception is set for May 10.

Karin Olah

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No matter what else is happening in the world, we’ve still got spring here.

Today’s stunning “Westport … Naturally” nighttime photo comes from Anne Bernier’s back yard. It proves that the season’s beauty is not limited to daylight hours.  What a sight!

(Photo/Anne Bernier)

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And finally … this gorgeous spring keeps giving us joy, with its birds and bees, flowers and trees …

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[OPINION] Sidewalk Shoveling Should Be Residents’ Role

Winter seems to be slowly slipping away. (Though temperatures will struggle to reach freezing today.)

There’s no snow in the forecast.

But even if we don’t see another flake this season, this is New England. In less than a year, we’ll shovel again.

Well, some Westporters won’t.

That’s the topic of Clarence Hayes’ “Opinion” piece today. The Representative Town Meeting member writes:

Westport is an outlier. Out of 169 municipalities in Connecticut, it is one of the very few (if not the only one) whose Public Works Department has the responsibility to clear residential sidewalks after a snowstorm.

In nearly every other community, this responsibility falls to the adjacent property owners. While Westport’s DPW does its best to keep up, it’s time to acknowledge that this system is unsustainable.

Cross Highway, after a snowfall.

Currently, our town has 26 miles of residential sidewalks. That number will grow, as new sidewalks are added.

The highway crew of 16 workers already puts in grueling 12- to 30-hour shifts clearing and salting roads during storms. After tackling streets, parking lots, and even hauling snow out of downtown, they are then expected to begin the long, labor-intensive task of clearing sidewalks.

Depending on the severity of the storm, it can take up to a week before all sidewalks are passable. If storms come back-to-back, sidewalk clearing may not happen at all.

By that time, snow has often hardened into “snowcrete” — a dense, icy layer that is far more difficult to remove than fresh snow, and creates even more hazardous conditions.

“Snowcrete” on Hillspoint Road, between Hillandale and Prospect Roads. (Photo/Clarence Hayes)

This means that even when sidewalks are cleared, they may still be icy, uneven or impassable in spots. And when storms come in quick succession, sidewalk clearing may have to be delayed or skipped altogether as crews focus on keeping roads safe.

Meanwhile, residents understandably want safe walkways immediately after a storm. Pedestrians, including schoolchildren and commuters, rely on these sidewalks to get around safely. But the reality is that the town simply cannot provide immediate service to sidewalks while prioritizing road safety.

The solution is simple and fair: Update our town ordinances to require property owners to clear sidewalks adjacent to their property, as is standard in most Connecticut towns.

Prior to storms, in addition to salting their driveway and front steps, homeowners would take a few more steps out and cover their sidewalk. This would dramatically ease the burden on our public works crews, while ensuring sidewalks are cleared faster for everyone.

 

There will, of course, be pushback from some who do not want to take on this responsibility. But Westport is a community that values walkability and safety. If we want our sidewalks to be clear and accessible after a storm, this ordinance change is a necessary step.

It’s time for Westport to adopt a sidewalk snow removal ordinance that aligns with the rest of the state. Doing so will improve safety, support our public works department, and ensure that our growing sidewalk network remains usable all winter long.

(If you’ve got an opinion, “06880” wants to hear it. And if you like reading these stories — and any others — “06880” wants you to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here. And thank you!)

Unsung Heroes #370

Sunday’s snowstorm is already just a memory.

But these comments were posted on Facebook that day:

“By the time I woke up this morning, my road was 100% cleared of snow. We have the very best Public Works crew around. Thanks to all!”

“The team at the PAL rink had Longshore plowed and the rink shoveled out to host our Girl Scouts by 9 a.m. this morning. It was awesome!”

“Agreed they did really well. Hats and gloves off!”

Our plow guys haven’t had a lot to do the past few winters.

But when they get the call — they come through.

Hats and gloves off indeed, to all the public and private folks who made Sunday a fun snow day, for all the rest of us schmoes who got up late.

An unsung hero, taking a very brief break on Sunday (Photo/Rick Carpenter)

(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

“06880” Podcast: Keith Wilberg

Keith Wilberg is Westport’s town engineer. He’s responsible for planning, directing, supervising and coordinating all the engineering, construction and maintenance of activities across all town departments.

And much more.

It’s a fascinating — yet little-appreciated — job. To know more, I invited Keith to the Westport Library, for our “06880” podcast.

I learned a ton. So will you, when you click below.