Tag Archives: Spinnaker

Roundup: Christopher Lloyd, Cribari Bridge, Debbie Allen …

Posted on October 29, 2026 | 10 comments

CHRISTOPHER LLOYD, STAPLES & THE WALL STREET JOURNAL

Nearly a dozen readers alerted me this week to a Wall Street Journal interview with Christopher Lloyd.

After describing his upbringing on the 400-acre Waveny estate in New Canaan — now a beautiful park and recreation area for the town — the Emmy-winning actor (“Back to the Future,” “Taxi,” “Nobody”) mentioned briefly what happened after he transferred to Staples High midway through his junior year. (He’d been bullied at his boarding school.)

“The drama teacher cast me in ‘Charley’s Aunt,'” he said. “I soon got a feel for acting.”

Either the 88-year-old star is downplaying what happened, he misremembered it, or the editors cut out the rest.

Christopher Lloyd was not simply “cast” in the show.

He helped create Staples Players.

As I wrote in “120 Years of A+ Education” — my history of Staples High School — Craig Matheson was an English (not drama) teacher, in the last year at the Riverside Avenue building (now Saugatuck Elementary School).

Principal Stan Lorenzen and some students wanted something more than the “senior class plays” that had been staged for years.

“I found Christopher Lloyd,” Matheson told me when I interviewed him in 2004.

“He was a marginal student, but he was interested in theater. He came to my small apartment on Turkey Hill Road, and we had a long conversation about theater.

“He helped me get started with our first production later that year. It was at Long Lots, on the stage in the gym. (The old Staples did not have a stage.)

The next year, the school moved to North Avenue. There was a real auditorium (though built primarily for music, not theater).

Matheson became Staples Players’ first director. The rest is history.

Though it would not be the same without him.

Or Christopher Lloyd.

(Click here for the full Wall Street Journal story.)

Christopher Lloyd’s write-up, in the Staples yearbook.

CHRISTIE ANSWERS CRIBARI BRIDGE OWNERSHIP QUESTION

An interesting twist in the long-running debate over the fate of the Cribari Bridge has been: Who actually owns it?

It’s on a state road (Route 136), and the Connecticut Department of Transportation has led maintenance and rehabilitation efforts for decades.

But questions have arisen as to whether the town ever gave, sold, or otherwise conveyed it to the state.

In answer to an email from Bridge Street resident and longtime Cribari Bridge observer/activist Werner Liepolt, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie responded last night:

We have looked into the ownership question and, based on what we have reviewed to date, have not found documentation establishing that the Town owns the Cribari Bridge.

I also asked Town Attorney Ira Bloom and his staff to review the available information and applicable statutes. Ira’s initial assessment is that the statutory framework governing state highways and bridges, together with the actions of the Town and State over at least the past sixty years, strongly indicate State ownership.

Cribari Bridge. State workers open it to allow maritime traffic to pass underneath. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

DEBBIE ALLEN: BOOKED FOR A GREAT EVENING

Emmy Award-winning director, choreographer, producer, actress, educator and United States Cultural Ambassador of Dance Debbie Allen has earned 3 Emmys, a Golden Globe, 5 NAACP Image Awards, a Drama Desk honor, the first-ever Astaire Award for Best Dancer, 4 honorary doctorates, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

She has choreographed the Academy Awards 10 times, directed and produced episodes of “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal” and “A Different World,” and was the creative force behind Steven Spielberg’s “Amistad.”

Last night she added another honor. She headlined the Westport Library’s annual “Booked for the Evening” gala.

Allen captivated the large crowd, in a conversation with another powerful, talented and creative woman: Shonda Rhimes.

Debbie Allen, at the Westport Library. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

SPINNAKER OFFERS SAUGATUCK UPDATE

Spinnaker Real Estate Partners — developers of the Saugatuck property bordered by Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place and Charles Street — say:

“We are pleased to have formally submitted our zoning applications for the redevelopment of 606 Riverside. The applications and the plans within them reflect the generous feedback we’ve received from stakeholders, the Architectural Review Board, and the Planning & Zoning Commission through several pre-application meetings, as well as our ongoing dialogue with the community over the past several months.

“We believe the vision for this important property has evolved favorably as a result of that input. The plans are now presented in a more complete and detailed form, which allows the Planning & Zoning Commission and the subject-matter experts across the town’s commissions and departments to fully analyze the technical aspects of the proposal.

“We look forward to continuing the conversation with the Commission and the community throughout the land-use process and beyond. Our goal remains to integrate this significantly underutilized property into the neighborhood in a way that respects its context and reflects Westport’s high standards.”

Spinnaker’s plan — the view from Franklin Street.

senior center invites VETS TO NOVEMBER 11 LUNCH

Plenty of veterans are regulars at the Westport Center for Senior Activities.

Many others have never been. All veterans — of all ages and all branches — are invited to a Veterans Day lunch there.

It’s Tuesday, November 10 (12 noon) menu includes vegetable bisque, beef stew, roasted potatoes, roasted asparagus and (of course) apple pie.

Speaker Jay Dirnberger is a decorated Vietnam War vet. He participated in the Tet offensive, the siege of Khe Sanh and the invasion of the A Shau Valley. He was awarded the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Air Medal with 22 Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star.

For non-military guests, there is a suggested donation of $6 to $8. All attendees should call 203-341-5097 to register.

Jay Dirnberger

TEDX COMING TO TOWN

Eight speakers take the Town Hall auditorium stage on November 8 (3 p.m.), for a special Westport TEDx event.

Speakers include:

● Kyle Martino: “The Youth Sports Monster: The Alarming Trend of the Commercialization of Youth Sports.”
● Dr. Mahsa Khodabakhsh: “The Biology of Compassion: The Missing Variable in Modern Medicine.”
● Gilda Bonanno: “The First 30 Seconds: Creating Connection with Someone New.”
● Dr. Amy Arnsten: “How Stress Shuts Down the Rational Brain.”
● Nisheeth Vishnoi: “What Happens to Us When We Let AI Do the Thinking?”
● Adam Moore: “Why We Do What We Do (And How to Stop Doing It)”
● Mark M. Melendez: “Beyond the Mirror: The Rejuvenation Paradox”

Tickets are $95, and include a post-event reception. Click here to purchase.

SAUGATUCK CHURCH INSTALLS DR. SAVIDES

Last Sunday was special at Saugatuck Congregational Church.

The 194-year-old congregation installed Rev. Dr. Steven Savides as its 23rd senior minister.

Though he served as pastor for the past year, the United Church of Christ installation tradition is a sacred and joyful occasion. He and the congregation promised mutual support, shared ministry, and commitment to the future of the
church.

Words of welcome were given by 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, and Rev. Dr. Pete
Powell on behalf of the Westport/Weston Clergy Association.

Rev. Dr. Steven Savides

RAVEIS OFFERS GOLD 

William Raveis’  “Gold for Good” Event offers attendees to turn unwanted gold and silver jewelry, coins and collectables into cash.

And, at the same time, help fund cancer research.

Attendees can sell their items — from broken chains and earrings to vintage pieces gathering dust. Monetary donations are welcome too. All proceeds benefit the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

It’s November 20 and 21 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m., William Raveis, 47 Riverside Avenue).

SHAKE SHACK AND SAUGATUCK EL

Shake Shack is clear across town from Saugatuck Elementary School.

But on Tuesday, they’re partnering on a fundraiser.

All day — from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. — they’ll donate 25% of your total meal to the SES PTA.

Just mention “Donation Day” at checkout, or type “Donate” on the ShackApp or kiosk.

The PTA urges all Westport families to help. They suggest: “If you’re out of ideas how to occupy the kids on a no-school day, or while running from one sports clinic to another, or heading home after voting, stop in at Shake Shack!”

today’s halloween house

We’re getting near the end of these holiday photos.

This one is not spooky, though. There are no ghosts or goblins, 30-foot skeletons, webs or witches.

Just a nice, handsome home on Hillspoint Road, with a few scarecrows and pumpkins in front.

The family that lives here is probably just as friendly too as the folks in front.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

LANDMARK PRESCHOOL CELEBRATES 30 YEARS

Congratulations to Landmark Preschool!

The early childhood education center is celebrating 30 years in Westport.

For reflections on those 3 decades from director Siobhan Powers, click here.

CLUB 203: MARITIME BOUND

CLUB203 is heading to the Maritime Aquarium.

Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities will enjoy 2 hours of friendship, exploration and Thanksgiving cheer on November 17 (6 to 8 p.m.).

Aquarium staff will lead interactive experiences, including access to exhibits and touch tanks

CLUB203’s creative partner, MoCA\CT, will offer a special Thanksgiving-themed art project. The evening is funded by the Westport Woman’s Club and Westport Rotary Club. For more information, click here. 

POLICE REPORTS

Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between October 21 and 27.

An 81-year-old Westport woman was charge with failure to appear. She was released on a $1,000 bond.

A 30-year-old Queens man was charged with failure to appear. He was released on a promise to appear.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • School zone violation: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle using handheld electronic device: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Cruelty to animals: 1
  • Possession of a vicious/barking dog: 1
  • Permitting a dog to roam: 1

This is presumably not the vicious dog whose owner was cited.

“westport … naturally” & song of the day

Fall foliage gets plenty of press — deservedly so.

But there’s more to autumn than meets the (leafy) eyes.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo offers this view of Rayfield Road, from Jerry Kuyper’s deck.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … this date in 1929 became known as “Black Tuesday.” The New York Stock Exchange crashed, ending the Great Bull Market of the 1920s. The Great Depression soon followed.

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Posted in Arts, Police, religion, Saugatuck, Staples HS

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Spinnaker’s Saugatuck: More Renderings

Posted on October 25, 2026 | 3 comments

Spinnaker is still relatively early in the planning process for its Saugatuck project.

As noted in its filing with the Planning & Zoning Commission earlier this month, the Norwalk developer hopes to build 142 rental apartments, and 3,838 square feet of retail and restaurant space.

Ten percent of the units would be deed-restricted as affordable to families making up to 80% of the statewide median income.

Another 10% would be deed-restricted as “workforce housing.” The affordable units are integrated throughout the building.

Local media have shown artist renderings of the plan, on land bordered by Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place, Franklin Street and Charles Street. It would replace Minute Men Cleaners, and nearby businesses.

The drawings highlight the view directly in front of the new construction. Buildings fronting streets will be lower than behind, to minimize impact.

View from Riverside Avenue.

View from Franklin Street.

View from Charles Street.

The application materials include other plans too. They show more of how the façades will look, relative to the new buildings behind them. They also include samples of building materials.

The first illustration (below), from Riverside Avenue, does not include the buildings behind — only their height.

View from Riverside Avenue, with building materials. Numbers in the drawing correspond with the samples below.

The others do show those buildings behind, set back from the street.

View from Railroad Place. The white section (bottom), outlined with dotted lines, shows the profile of the existing buildings. 

View from Franklin Street (continuing past Railroad Place, with Luciano Park on the left). The white section (bottom), outlined with dotted lines, shows the profile of the existing buildings.

View from Charles Street. 

Application materials also include 4 close-up views — one in each direction — of the backs of the buildings from inside the courtyard.

Town bodies — including the Planning & Zoning Commission and Architectural Review Board — will be involved as the application moves forward.

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Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck

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Roundup: $$$: “Workforce Housing,” Board Of Finance, Rowing Club Fundraiser …

Posted on October 23, 2026 | 3 comments

SPINNAKER’S WORKFORCE HOUSING: WHO QUALIFIES?

This week, Spinnaker announced plans to build 142 apartments in Saugatuck, on property bordered by Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place and Charles Street.

Ten percent of the units would be deed-restricted as affordable to families making up to 80% of the statewide median income.

Another 10% would be deed-restricted as “workforce housing.”

So what exactly is “workforce housing”? Who qualifies.

Michelle Perillie — director of the Westport Planning & Zoning Department — explains: “Section 5 of the Westport Zoning Regulations define Workforce Housing. The area median income this year is $156,800, so the maximum income for a family of 4 is $172,480 per year.”

How does one apply?

“The application process will be the same as for an affordable unit. (It) includes an income certification form…. There is also an applicant interview where income compliance is verified.”

Spinnaker’s plan has a long way to go before it is approved. Then, of course, comes construction.

It will be a while before anyone moves in, to either the affordable or market rate units.

Questions? Email mperillie@westportct.gov.

One view of the proposed Saugatuck apartments.

 

BOARD OF FINANCE MULLS POLICE, LONGSHORE, SCHOOL REQUESTS

Speaking of $$$: The Board of Finance meets November 4 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; click here for the livestream). Among the agenda items up for approval:

  • 5-year renewal of police body dash equipment: $404,852.36
  • Replacement of water services lines at Longshore: $3,560,000
  • Board of Education building projects: $17,569,712.

Specifically:

BMS-008 Install Air Vapor Barrier Metal Panel Facades $40,000
DW-012 Installation of Ductless Split Systems $507,635
GFS-002 & 004 Evaluation of Building HVAC System & Indoor AHU $100,000
GFS-003 Assessment of Water Side Balancing & DPS Replacement $50,000
KHS-006 Evaluation of Building HVAC System $50,000
SES-003 Replace Cooling Towers $1,038,982
SHS-005 & 007 Replacement of Air Handling Units for Pool & Supporting Areas $1,523,082
SHS-008 Replacement of Hot Water Pumps, Rebalancing, Control Valves $1,103,973
SHS-009 Replacement of Cooling Towers & Structural Evaluation $1,451,934
SHS-010 & 011 Replacement of AHU for Field House, Gym, Locker Rooms & Fitness Center $6,499,810
SHS-015 Replacement of Gas Fired Roof Top Units $1,322,330
GFS-008 Roof Replacement & Repair, and Replace Exhaust Fans $2,235,137
SHS-035 Exterior Doors Monitoring $50,000
BMS-011 Upgrade Science Labs $1,036,921
SHS-031 Renovate Girls Locker Room to Create New Team Room(s) $509,908
SHS-032 Renovate Girls Locker Room $50,000

There is this additional Board of Ed request, for $138,942:

DW-013 Installation of Room Numbers at Exterior Windows $93,942
SHS-033 Auditorium – Acoustical Study $20,000
SHS-034 Auditorium – Interior Renovations $25,000

 

Scheduled for renovation: the Staples girls locker room.

CYBERSECURITY & EDUCATION COURSES PROPOSED AT STAPLES

Speaking of the Board of Education: Its Teaching & Learning Committee meets Tuesday (October 27, 1:30 p.m., Town Hall Rooms 201/201A).

The agenda includes 2 new courses proposed for Staples High School.

The Science Department hopes to introduce “AP Cybersecurity,” for students in grades 10-12.

The course would cover core security principles, risk assessment and ethical responsibilities; physical security and social engineering; network and device protection; and application and data security, including encryption, cloud security, and web vulnerabilities.

Students would apply these concepts to realistic workplace scenarios, analyzing vulnerabilities and developing security recommendations. The course would also address defensive uses of AI, emerging security risks, and data privacy standards.

The prerequisite would be AP Computer Science Principles or Intro to Programming.

The Social Studies Department proposes a new 1/2-credit Early College Experience course, “If You Love It, Teach It,” for students in grades 11-12 interested in exploring careers in K-12 education. The course would examine the historical and social foundations of education, and provide hands-on field observation opportunities in local elementary and middle schools.

“RIVER OF ROSES” TURNS SAUGATUCK PINK

Right on the heels of a 4th place finish at the Head of the Charles race last weekend, the Saugatuck Rowing Club is getting ready for tomorrow’s River of Roses.

The event (Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), includes live music, great food, and — of course — the ceremonial scattering of 50,000 pink rose petals on the Saugatuck River.

The 9th annual event commemorates loved ones lost to breast cancer — and raises funds for survivors. After names are read aloud, the petals are swept out to sea.

Proceeds support SurviveOAR, the empowering, supportive community that provides mental, physical and emotional healing to women with breast cancer after traditional treatment ends.

This year’s River of Roses includes a naming ceremony of the Club’s beautiful pink rowing shell, in memory of beloved member Sarah Bianchi, who passed away last year.

Tickets are $75; rose petals are $25. Click here to purchase, and/or donate. Brunch includes a full raw bar, clam chowder, pumpkin bisque, charcuterie, egg frittata, apple crisp, and complimentary “Sarah Bianchi” Sauvignon Blanc.

Scattering petals, remembering friends.

WORLD PREMIERE AT WESTPORT COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE

As it’s done for 95 years, the Westport Country Playhouse continues to set the bar high.

And surpass it.

The historic theater kicks off the 2026-27 season with a world premiere. “Ken Ludwig’s Pride and Prejudice, Part 2:  Napoleon at Pemberley” — a stage sequel Jane Austen’s novel “Pride and Prejudice” runs from now through November 7.

The play picks up with Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy happily married at Pemberley. Then their world is upended by an unexpected house guest: Napoleon Bonaparte.

As the fallen emperor awaits exile, his presence ignites a revolution among the Darcys, and their colorful circle of friends and relations.

For more information, including tickets, click here. 

Napoleon in action, at the Westport Playhouse. (Photo/Carol Rosegg)

St. Luke fall festival ALL WEEKEND LONG

Fall into fun this weekend, at St. Luke Church’s Fall Festival.

The event (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) includes kids’ activities, a “shabby chic boutique,” craft and outdoor vendors, kids’ closet, raffles.

 

 

HALLOWEEN ON SOUNDVIEW and Long lots

The Compo Beach neighborhood is one of Westport’s most popular, for densely packed trick or treating. (Sorry, residents — I don’t think any readers didn’t know.)

Most residents get in the spirit — handing out hundreds of dollars worth of candy (and a few drinks for the parents), and decorating their homes appropriately.

This is one particularly spooky scene, on Soundview Drive:

(Photo/Susan Garment)

In a related vein, some of the organizations and businesses that “adopt” traffic islands take care of them well. Others, well …

The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston not only take their commitment seriously — they go the extra mile.

This is the scene now, on Long Lots Road at Maple Avenue North:

(Photo/Paul Liistro)

 

“Westport … naturally” & song of the day

If there’s a traffic jam in front of Saugatuck Congregational Church these days, perhaps drivers are slowing down to look at the fantastic fall foliage, framing the iconic building.

Molly Alger was walking — not driving — by, and snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … to honor Saugatuck Rowing Club’s River of Roses, raising money for the SurviveOAR program (item above), a song by Survivor:

(How does “06880” survive? By the generosity of readers like you! If you enjoy these Roundups — or anything else on this hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Spinnaker Files Saugatuck Site Plan: 142 Apartments, Retail And Restaurants

Posted on October 20, 2026 | 10 comments

It’s official.

Spinnaker has filed a site plan and special permit application for 606 Riverside Avenue.

That’s the Saugatuck property — currently the site of Minute Men Cleaners, and nearby businesses — that was the site of the failed Hamlet proposal.

Spinnaker’s affiliate, Saugatuck TOD 606 LLC, hopes to build 142 rental apartments, and 3,838 square feet of retail and restaurant space.

Ten percent of the units would be deed-restricted as affordable to families making up to 80% of the statewide median income.

Another 10% would be deed-restricted as “workforce housing.” The affordable units are integrated throughout the building.

The façade along Riverside Avenue would be 3 1/2 stories tall. Higher buildings would be “stepped back into the site so that it is substantially less visible from the street.”

All parking — 241 spaces, 20 of which are tandem for a total of 261 cars — will be screened from view, on 2 separately accessed levels.

Spinnaker also proposes adding 10 new on-street public parking spots.

View from Riverside Avenue.

The plan follows several rounds of pre-application reviews by the Planning & Zoning Commission and Architectural Review Board.

Spinnaker says it has “also engaged in significant neighbor outreach, including written notices to nearly 90 neighbors, meetings with neighbors, the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck, local and State community leaders, neighborhood business owners, Town staff, Connecticut Department of Transportation staff and other interested parties.”

The application — received yesterday by the Planning & Zoning Department — is an important step on the journey to approval. Bodies like the P&Z, ARB and Conservation Commission have not yet scheduled hearings.

View from Franklin Street. The existing 21 Charles Street office building (left) is not part of the Spinnaker project, nor are the 2-story buildings currently on Franklin Street.

Spinnaker — a developer “focusing on transit-oriented developments” — is collaborating with Beinfield Architecture. Both firms are based in Norwalk.

Spinnaker calls its plan “contextually appropriate for Saugatuck, and grounded in a traditional and contextual vernacular.”

The developer adds that it:

  • Concentrates development near transportation nodes
  • Strengthens the character and economy of Saugatuck Center
  • Maintains appropriate building scale and character
  • Adds housing to support an active mixed-used area
  • Serves empty nesters, retirees, and children of Westport residents
  • Improves runoff to the Saugatuck River
  • Improves pedestrian friendliness in Saugatuck Center.

View from Charles Street. 

An earlier “Hamlet at Saugatuck” development was first proposed in June 2022, when ROAN Ventures submitted an application to create a new zoning district for the project.

The plan — including retail, residences, a hotel, marina and public spaces — was rejected by the Planning & Zoning Commission 3 years later. ROAN then said it was considering a residential-focused project, perhaps including 500 units of 8-30g affordable housing.

Spinnaker’s first proposal was for 175 apartments, including 18 affordable units priced for households at 80% of state median income.

(“06880” has followed Saugatuck redevelopment plans closely. We’ll continue to do so. Your donation helps support our work. Please click here to help — and thank you!)

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P&Z: Spinnaker’s Saugatuck Project Heading In Right Direction

Posted on August 18, 2026 | 3 comments

“06880” political correspondent John H. Palmer reports:

Representatives of Norwalk’s Spinnaker — looking to build a new development in the heart of Saugatuck — convinced members of the Planning & Zoning Commission Monday last night that the project is heading in the right direction.

At least, aesthetically.

But as has been the case all along, affordable housing continues to be a major sticking point, as the development gets debated.

The latest iteration of the proposed Saugatuck development is still in the “pre-application” phase. A project in progress is presented to the planning board, with the intent of gathering information and advice from town officials — as well as public sentiment — before the official application is filed with the town.

The Spinnaker proposal is the latest development bid since ROAN Ventures gave up their attempt last year to build the “Hamlet” in Saugatuck.

Unlike Hamlet — which involved a complicated mix of several properties — Spinnaker’s proposal had until Monday evening called for 175 mixed units within 1 block of property, as well as 1 retail space at sidewalk level.

Eighteen of the apartments — about 10 percent — would be considered affordable. That’s less than the 20% town regulations require for similar developments.

Street-facing apartments would be less high than ones behind them.

Last night’s meeting — held via Zoom — was the latest look at the proposal since the developers went before the Architectural Review Board on July 28.

At that meeting, representatives for both Spinnaker and Beinfield Architects discussed changes to the design, including 6th-floor lofts for apartments on the floor beneath it, rather than more residences.

The building’s 2 garage levels have been lowered by 2 feet each, and sidewalk setbacks have been deepened. Also, the Riverside Avenue façade will receive a “factory-style” look, with brickwork to blend in with neighboring buildings and pay homage to Saugatuck’s heritage.

As it stands, the proposed development provides for 10% of the planned units to be considered affordable. Spinnaker has been working to meet Westport’s requirement of 20%, one of the region’s most stringent.

To meet this requirement, Spinnaker came back to the table with 2 potential scenarios. According to Adam Blank, land use attorney for Spinnaker, the 20% requirement could be met by reducing the number of total units in the development to 158, limiting 26 units to 80% of the state median income (SMI), while 132 would be market price.

Another scenario would involve providing 140 total units. 10% of the units would rent at 80% SMI, and another 10% at a “workforce income” (110% of area median income, or AMI).

This would mean that 117 units would be at market price and 23 considered affordable.

The potential drawback: Instead of a mixed development of smaller and larger units, there would be likely be a higher density of smaller studios and 1-bedroom apartments.

“This is a way for us to make it work at 20%,” Blank said.

 

The property Spinnaker hopes to develop is outlined in yellow. Riverside Avenue is at right; Railroad Place and the train tracks at bottom; Charles Street at top.

One sticking point around how many units would be built, Blank said, is the outcome of a state brownfield grant the developer will seek to mitigate contamination on the site. Part of the site sits within a flood zone. Blank was hopeful that the state might make an exemption, and provide funding for the mitigation.

“Millions of dollars on remediation can make a project not viable,” he said. “If we have to pay the remediation, smaller units let us do that.”

Commissioner Bre Injeski made it clear she wasn’t interested in a development that would amount to a bunch of studio apartments, to make it affordable to the developer.

“For me, it’s not a concrete plan,” she said. “In the end, we could end up with almost 100% residential, and it will only be smaller units. For me, it doesn’t add up. The 20% could be discouraging, but that’s where we are.”

Commissioner Craig Schiavone agreed, though she said she was happy with the design.

“We really don’t know what this project will look like until we know about brownfield,” she said. “For me, it’s difficult to reach a comfort level until those numbers are all in. I like the reduction of until count, but you’re not reducing the size of the building. The economics do change, but we don’t know what we as a town are getting.”

Spinnaker, which has developed properties in Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Fairfield and New Haven, bought 606 Riverside Avenue for $12.795 million, and 96 Franklin Street for $3.25 million. The rectangle parcel is anchored by Minute Man Cleaners, and contains a parking lot, locksmith and a white residential building.

The parcel to be developed would be bordered by Charles and Franklin Streets, Riverside Avenue and Railroad Place. Designers plan to preserve the historical feel of Saugatuck through brick architecture.

Brick “industrial”-style facade (right) along Charles Street. The existing 21 Charles Street office building is at far right. Buildings facing Riverside Avenue are on the left.

The pre-app also includes a plan to create a new zone of development — a Transit-Oriented Development sub-area, or TOD — to allow residential development on lots near the Saugatuck train station.

Spinnaker representatives intend to create a “New England Village,” providing a walkable environment and a “symbiotic relationship” with downtown Westport, to help draw visitors to the area.

By comparison, Hamlet proposed 2 underground parking garages that would feature “stackers” employed to accommodate more vehicles. It would have also eliminated most on-street parking. Spinnaker’s version will provide 49 off-street parking spaces plus 10 on-street spaces on Charles Street, in addition to the 283 contained garage spaces.

Spinnaker reps on Monday evening presented new details of the project to address concerns from the ARB, including lower roof heights to 30 to 35 feet that allows more natural light to filter through, along with a plan to build 2 outdoor plazas instead of 1. They would utilize space occupied by an existing house at 16 Railroad Place, a property used for storage that Spinnaker now owns.

The new plan would “move it backwards and create a plaza that bookends our façade and creates an extension of the activity on Railroad Place,” said Seelan Pather, managing principal with Beinfield Architecture.

Artist’s rendering of the view from Riverside Avenue, with Railroad Place at left. An existing white house (center) would be moved back from its current location closer to Riverside, creating a plaza.

“I like this plan better than what is already there,” said commissioner Nicole Laskin.

Chairman Paul Lebowitz echoed the sentiment. “Obviously you heard us the last time, and I like the direction that you guys are heading,” he said.

“It looks you’re getting serious about the streetscape, and I want to know more about what it looks like to the people on the ground, how much retail you can put in there and make it a truly viable part of the community.”

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Roundup: P&Z, Primary, Police …

Posted on August 12, 2026 | Leave a comment

It’s mid-August. With many Westporters away, and others’ attention directed more to the beach and barbecue grill than politics, nearly every town board has canceled this month’s meetings.

But not the Planning & Zoning Commission. They’ve got too much on their plate.

This Monday (6 p.m., Zoom), they’ll discuss a proposal for lights on the Wakeman turf field next to Bedford Middle School, and PJ Romano Field behind Saugatuck Elementary. The special permit request must be closed by August 21.

Before that item, the P&Z will consider a pre-application for the development of 606 Riverside Avenue — the site bordered by Railroad Place and Charles Street, where Spinnaker is proposing 175 apartments (and one retail space), with 283 parking spots. The Architectural Review Board heard a pre-app last month. 

Click here, then scroll down for all meeting materials. For Wakeman Field, search for “70 North Avenue.” For PJ Romano Field, look for “170 Riverside Avenue.” For Spinnaker’s Saugatuck plans, click on “606 Riverside Avenue.”

PJ Romano Field

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Turnout was low for yesterday’s primaries. Just 16.9% of registered Westport voters cast ballots (9.8% in person yesterday, 5.2% early, 1.9% absentee).

Democrats renominated Governor Ned Lamont for a 3rd term. He beat Josh Elliott here, 1,402 to 236 (85.6% to 14.4%). Statewide, his margin was 67.9% to 32.1%.

Republicans chose Michael Goldstein to challenge Congressman Jim Himes for the 4th District seat, in a rematch of 2024. He won Westport over Daniel Miressi, 184 votes (72.4%) to 70 (27.6%). Those totals were very close to the entire district.

It was a quiet election. There was little buzz, few mailers, not even a yard sign.

Quiet scene at Saugatuck Elementary School. (Photo/Samira Dinkin)

A few Westporters who wanted to cast ballots yesterday found it difficult. Dr. Norman Klein writes:

“Those of us who vote at Long Lots School Elementary School had been sent notices to vote at Bedford Middle School, given the enormous construction at Long Lots.

“Upon arrival (in a desolate parking lot), the school was closed. I called the town Registrar of Voters. We had some contretemps. She claimed having sent a postcard (likely looking like so much of our junk mail) changing the venue back to Long Lots.

“I am fastidious about all my USPS mail. I never saw it; neither did multitudes. Bedford’s double doors had only one small sign at the far right, saying “No voting here today.”

“So at Long Lots — I may have actually heard crickets — I voted.

“The polling people and I had some exchanges about my sole presence being ‘the crush of voters’ (10 a.m.). So this anomalous situation resulted in even fewer voters in a mid-summer primary. Happily, I figure my single vote now counts perhaps 20x.

“I hold deep respect and gratitude to these front-line volunteers who stand sentry on the battlements of this fraught time, where our democracy is headed to life support. But I’m just sayin’…”

Voting, in the dog days of summer. (Photo/Jo Shields)

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One of the coolest opportunities anywhere is the Westport Police Department’s 9-week Citizens’ Police Academy.

Through classroom instruction, demonstrations, hands-on activities and direct interaction with department personnel, participants gain a first-hand understanding of what our officers do, how they do it, and how the WPD fits into our community.

At the same time, residents and officers get to know each other much better.

25 community members — of a variety of ages and backgrounds — receive an inside look at the WPD’s divisions and specialized units, including patrol operations, criminal investigations, emergency response, and other law enforcement functions. Participants will do a patrol ride-along, and receive Stop the Bleed training.

Instructors include officers, attorneys from Stamford Superior Court, and members of Westport Emergency Medical Services.

Graduates leave the program with a deeper appreciation for the complexity of police work, and a stronger connection to the WPD. (Click here for one resident’s first hand account of her experience.)

The program runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays from September 8 through November 10.

The academy is open to Westport residents age 21 and older. Applications can be picked up at police headquarters, and are due by August 21. Questions? Email jcabana@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-6026.

Westport’s Citizens Police Academy offers an inside look into every aspect of the department.

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Madison Square Garden is not the Levitt Pavilion.

But 2 days after playing that famed New York venue, the Revivalists took the Westport stage.

And gave the crowd of nearly 2,000 people a high-energy, rockin’ performance just as if they were 20,000 strong.

The Revivalists (Photo/Dave Briggs)

The Levitt’s summer of entertainment continues this week, with 5 free shows. They include:

  • Today (Wednesday), 7 p.m.: Joanie Lewis (Children’s Series)
  • Thursday, 7 p.m.: Improvement Movement with Memo
  • Friday, 7 p.m.: Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez, featuring The Sin Sisters & Guests
  • Saturday, 7:30 p.m.: Logical Pretzel — The Songs of Steely Dan
  • Sunday, 7 p.m.: The String Queens

Click here for more information, and free tickets.

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Every year, the Westport Farmers’ Market offers a new tote bag. Over the years, they’ve become collectors’ items.

This year — their 20th — they offer a bag that is truly memorable.

A limited edition tote is available now. To reserve yours, click here.

20th anniversary tote.

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The “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot a week from tomorrow (Thursday, August 20), for a session covering “Tips for Resumes and Cover Letters.”

It returns September 17, for “Interview Success.”

There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.

The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.

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The Compo Beach parking lot looks a bit fresher today.

Public Works crews were out yesterday, restriping spots, handicap icons and more.

Now there’s no excuse for bad parking! (Except for entitlement …).

(Photo/Karen Como)

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August is prime tomato-harvesting time in Connecticut.

And Tracy Porosoff proves it, with today’s mouth-watering “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … Arlene Smith, the lead singer and songwriter of the Chantels, whose powerful vocal on “Maybe” helped start the “girl group” doo-wop wave in the 1950s, and influenced many others like the Ronettes, Shirelles and Shangri-Las — died last month in the Bronx, of a heart attack. She was 84.

Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: Michael Taylor)

(Maybe you read “06880” every day — or sometimes. Maybe you like nearly everything on this hyper-local blog, or just some of it. But definitely you should click here, to support our work. Thanks!)

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Spinnaker’s Saugatuck: Relatively Smooth Sailing Before Architecture Board

Posted on July 29, 2026 | 6 comments

The Architectural Review Board took another look at Spinnaker’s plan for 175 apartments — and one retail space — last night.

In a low-key, collaborative Town Hall session, members discussed the developer’s pre-application for 606 Riverside Avenue. The property is bordered by Charles Street and Railroad Place. It currently includes Minute Man Cleaners, a parking lot, locksmith and a white residential building.

The ARB is not the Planning & Zoning Commission, chair Ward French noted. His board’s job is to consider aesthetics, not regulations.

Representatives from Spinnaker and Beinfield Architecture explained changes from their previous ARB meeting. The top (6th) floor now consists of lofts for apartments on the floor beneath it, rather than more residences. The building’s 2 garage levels have been lowered by 2 feet each. Setbacks are deeper. And the Riverside Avenue façade has been softened, in response to concerns about its look.

Sketch of the view from Riverside Avenue. Steam Coffee Bar is at left. The existing white residential building (behind Steam) would be retained, Spinnaker says, and possibly moved back from its current site on Riverside Avenue.

Discussion centered on how the buildings would appear from not only street level, but when coming off the train and I-95 exit 17, and driving past on the highway itself.

Questions were raised about its similarity to the Corbin District — 7 acres of  116 apartments, plus retail, restaurants, fitness studios and offices off I-95 Exit 11 in Darien.

Beinfield managing partner Seelan Pather referenced 95, noting that architects cannot design buildings that accommodate every view.

Pre-app discussion also included the Charles Street building, next to the current 4-story office building and across from Zucca Gastrobar. Its “factory aesthetic” design — a nod to Saugatuck’s heritage — would include 3 different brick styles, to break up its bulk.

View from the corner of Riverside Avenue (left) and Charles Street (right). The current 21 Charles Street office building is at far right. The higher new apartments would be set back from the street.

Suggestions were made to change part of the façade to clapboard siding from brick, to fit better with nearby structures.

French said, “I think we’re headed in the right direction, given the alternatives. I’m fearful of what Darien might look like here. This has more resonance.”

Before Saugatuck, the ARB looked at plans for 1460 Post Road East. Sprouts — the Phoenix-based “farmers’ market” chain — will move into the space now occupied by BevMax (and previously, Pier 1, Barnes & Noble, and Westport Lanes bowling alley).

The liquor store will move to the lower level. Julian’s will be relocated to the far eastern end of the shopping plaza.

Board members asked for changes to the side of the building facing the Post Road, citing its length and height.

Proposed entrance to Sprouts, facing the large parking lot to the west of 1460 Post Road East. Concerns were raised about the bulk of the façade to the left of this rendering, fronting Post Road East.

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Spinnaker Prepares Saugatuck Pre-App

Posted on July 22, 2026 | 18 comments

It’s been a quiet few months for the new Saugatuck development.

But next Tuesday (July 28, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Room 309), the Architectural Review Board will hear a pre-application, and discuss plans, for 606 Riverside Avenue.

That’s the Minute Man Cleaners/locksmith/parking lot plot, bordered by Charles Street. Spinnaker plans to build 175 apartments there. Eighteen — about 10 percent — would be considered affordable.

The pre-app — with information from Beinfield Architects — note the intention to create a new Transit Oriented Development sub-area. It would “allow the proposed development to proceed, to encourage primarily residential development on larger lots proximate to the Saugatuck Train Station, to enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal, and to enhance pedestrian access.”

The TOD area would encourage developments “inspired by New England architecture vernacular (and) encourage the preservation of architectural features of historic buildings.” Click here to see all materials in the pre-application.

Spinnaker did not reply to several requests for comment.

606 Riverside Avenue (yellow outline). It is bordered by Railroad Place (left and bottom), Charles Street (top) and Riverside Avenue (right).

Exterior view, in the pre-application. Taller buildings are behind the one facing Riverside Avenue.

Second exterior view, with taller buildings behind. 

One level of apartments.

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P&Z Gets First Look At Spinnaker Pre-App

Posted on June 2, 2026 | 10 comments

What’s next for Saugatuck?

The Planning & Zoning Commission held its first hearing yesterday on the new Spinnaker project. “06880” reporter John Palmer writes:

The Planning & Zoning Commission and members of the public got their first look last night at the latest development proposal for Saugatuck since the Hamlet was rendered dead.

Representatives for Norwalk-based Spinnaker presented a pre-application –a first look at the developer’s plans, and a chance for any last-minute concerns to be discussed before a formal application is submitted.

The Architectural Review Board discusses the pre-application at their meeting tonight (Tuesday, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Room 201; click here for materials).

“We know this property has a long and at times, frustrating history for the neighborhood,” said Matthew Edvardsen, principal at Spinnaker, who added he lives in town with his wife.

“We want this to be a project the neighborhood enjoys and is genuinely happy to be a part of.”

One view of the proposed Spinnaker development. Riverside Avenue is on the left, Charles Street on the right.

Spinnaker, which has developed properties in Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Fairfield and New Haven, bought 606 Riverside Avenue for $12.795 million, and 96 Franklin Street for $3.25 million. The rectangle parcel is anchored by Minute Man Cleaners.

“This is not the Hamlet,” said Adam Blank, an attorney with Wofsey, Rosen, Kweskin & Kuriansky, acting as land use counsel for Spinnaker. “We can assure you the project will comply with all town engineering standards.”

He added that the developers have already met with the Fire department, businesses and other town officials, as well as the state Department of Transportation. Spinnaker has also created a project website.

Unlike Hamlet, which involved a complicated mix of several properties, Spinnaker’s proposal calls for 175 mixed units within 1 block of property. Eighteen — or about 10 percent — would be considered affordable, less than the 20% that town regulations require for similar developments.

Seelan Pather, managing principal for Beinfield Architecture, which will handle design for the proposed development, said the intent is to create a “New England Village” that provides a walkable environment.

A view looking at Railroad Place (left) and Riverside Avenue.

Rather than providing a development with many amenities, he said the idea is to create a “symbiotic relationship” with downtown Westport, which he said would be the draw for people to visit.

“We are familiar with Westport, and we are trying to achieve some of that wonderful Westport energy that exists,” he said. “We will pay attention to detail. Needless to say we’ve done this before, and we know how to get it right.”

The parcel to be developed would be bordered by Charles and Franklin Streets, Riverside Avenue and Railroad Place.

Designers plan to preserve the historical feel of Saugatuck by retaining buildings such as the post office to provide a hint of nostalgia.

Along Charles Street and Riverside Avenue, street level buildings would be limited to 4 stories to avoid an urban “canyon effect,” and would feature townhouse-like apartments with stoops, as well as street-level retail and entertainment space.

A 5-foot setback from 13-foot sidewalks would help shield sightlines of a larger, 6-story structure that would house 2 levels of above-grade parking, and 4 levels of apartments that would surround a common plaza area for residents.

“You’d have to be on I-95 to see most of what’s going on there,” Pather said of the higher building.

A key feature of the new development, which differs from Hamlet, is 283 parking spaces. Most are on 2 levels that would be located at grade or on the second level, with entrances that would be hidden within the façade of the street level façade.

By comparison, Hamlet proposed 2 underground parking garages that would feature “stackers” employed to accommodate more vehicles. It would have also eliminated most on-street parking.

Spinnaker’s street-level parking plan.

Spinnaker’s version will provide 49 off-street parking spaces plus 10 on-street spaces on Charles Street, in addition to the 283 contained garage spaces.

According to Marissa Tarrallo, a traffic expert with AKRF, studies were done at 11 intersections in the area from March through May, collecting 3 days of turning movement counts as well as 9-day traffic recorder counts.

The project as currently planned would generate 57 more weekday morning trips, 88 more in the afternoon, and 129 more on Saturdays.

She said that Spinnaker’s development will generate about 80% fewer vehicle trips than the Hamlet would have generated, and almost no traffic delays more than 10 seconds at all intersections with Saugatuck Avenue.

Planning commissioners largely viewed the proposal positively, but several expressed concerns that the developers provide only 10 percent of affordable housing, when town regulations require 20 percent.

“It would be very difficult to approve something that is substantially lower than what we require of other developers in town,” said Bre Injeski, adding that a text amendment would likely need to be approved to allow a change in regulations.

“That would be a sticking point for me. I like that you have sufficient parking and the traffic numbers are not going to make traffic significantly worse.”

The current site of the Spinnaker property. Riverside Avenue is at the bottom of the photo; Charles Street is on the right. 

“This is a massive development in an area that is already congested,” noted Michael Calise. “We just don’t have the infrastructure.”

Chairman Paul Lebowitz said that he’d like to see more setbacks integrated into the streetscape, to allow for opportunities to enjoy the environment.

“When I go to Saugatuck it’s for the experience of the places there, like eating ice cream and sitting on a nice evening,” he said. “I’d like to see more of that integrated into the sidewalks.

“It’s night and day from what we were presented with previously. I will be drawn to the negative space that will make Charles Street look like something it hasn’t looked like in many years.”

(Since our founding in 2009, “06880” has covered Saugatuck from every angle: real estate, business, transportation, history and more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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First Looks: Saugatuck Spinnaker And Long Lots Plans

Posted on May 30, 2026 | 24 comments

We’ve already seen the first couple of artists’ drawings of Spinnaker’s plan for the Minute Man Cleaners’ parcel in Saugatuck.

The Norwalk-based developer hopes to build 157 market rate units of rental apartments on the 1.5-acre parcel at the corner of Riverside Avenue and Charles Street. Another 18 would be deed-restricted as affordable. There would be 283 underground parking spaces.

The view from the corner of Railroad Place (left) and Riverside Avenue.

The view down Riverside Avenue; train station is far left. Charles Street is on the right.

Now they’ve released architectural plans.

Level 2 (ground level)

Level 3

Level 5 (level 4 was not posted)

Level 6 

Parking garage – level 1A

Parking garage – level 1

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hear a pre-application of the proposal on Monday (June 1, 6 p.m.; Zoom).

The Architectural Review Board discusses the pre-app the next night (Tuesday, June 2, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).

Click here for all pre-application materials.

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Meanwhile, Westporters are getting their first look at the new Long Lots Elementary School.

The initial renderings have been released. Below is a computer-generated aerial view.

The new school (right) is north of the current school, which will be replaced by a parking lot (center). An athletic field (left) replaces the former Community Gardens.

The renderings also show the front entrance (below), as viewed from the parent drop-off lane …

,,, and the “Main Street” corridor. This view is from the Stepping Stones/after hours/weekend entrance, heading to the gymnasium …

… as well as the cafeteria.

They are drafts only. Architects are still working on those, and other renderings. More may be available next week.

The projected opening of the new school has been pushed back to January 2028 — after winter break. The previous plan was the beginning of the 2027-28 school year.

 (“06880” covers education, real estate, local politics — and everything else that happens here. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 work, please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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