Ms. Klein recapped the history of recent revitalization efforts from contacting CT Main Streets to formation of the Darien Downtown Committee, culminating in Darien’s acceptance into the Main Streets program and formation of Darien Revitalization, Inc.

Jeremy Ginsberg described the timeline of downtown development, P&Z’s development policies, and the 2006 Town Plan. He described the beginnings of the model blocks program and the development of condos and Clock Hill Homes in the mid-1980’s. He explained that Dunkin Donuts’ arrival in the mid-1990’s encouraged other national retailers to consider Darien. These developments “put feet on the street”. From 1997 to 2004, P&Z worked to make downtown less linear, the train station was renovated, and the Farmers’ Market began. He explained that development is spurring development, we have seen “ingenuity from business owners”, and stores are more willing to move to Darien.

Chief Lovello discussed the impact of downtown development on traffic and safety. He indicated that Post Road’s proximity to I-95 is responsible for the Post Road’s heavy traffic. His presentation included a staggering statistic: 150,000 cars drive I-95 through Darien each day. He also discussed how the Police Commission handles traffic and pedestrian safety downtown.

Debbie Parnon described DRI’s role. DRI is working with property owners to ensure variety in retail and dining options by suggesting possible tenants for vacant spaces. At the same time, DRI wants to improve streetscapes by creating a uniform look, including more trees and plantings, and changing residents’ “attitudes, habits, and perceptions”. DRI is now working with the CT Main Streets Resource Team recommendations which you may read by clicking the link.

Sen. Bob Duff and Rep. John Ryan address the audience

After the panel discussion, Sen. Bob Duff and Rep. John Ryan spoke briefly about the state’s role in downtown development. Sen. Duff stated that the state supports everything that’s happening and encouraged Darien to have a philosophy guiding development, as Norwalk did when planning SoNo and Wall St. Rep. Ryan encouraged residents to look at the DRI plan as a menu of options, figure out what to do, then figure out who to contact at the state level to make the plan a reality. He explained that it’s his and Sen. Duff’s job to facilitate what the town wants to do.

The question and answer session gave audience members time to ask the panel about all aspects of downtown development from affordable housing to sidewalk maintenance and traffic. Enid Oresman from the LWV asked how the town’s changing demographics are impacting downtown revitalization. Ms. Parnon cited the surprising statistic that 20% of Darien residents are 9 years old or younger. Mr. Ginsberg explained that younger people moving in to town have changing expectations. Ms. Klein cited new residents’ creative ideas and desire for community spaces.

The question of affordable housing downtown came up early in the discussion. The panelists explained that housing plans depend on developers’ proposals, housing is a very important part of revitalization, zoning regulations allow 3rd floor apartments in downtown buildings, and the Board of Selectmen is putting together an Affordable Housing Advisory Commission and is considering purchasing the current Library site and using that land for housing.

Several attendees asked about sidewalk conditions. Currently the Model Blocks partnership between business owners and the town is responsible for some sidewalk maintenance, and other sidewalks are maintained as part of DPW’s street and sidewalk maintenance cycle. Most maintenance is reliant on town funding. Ms. Parnon explained that she is considering beginning a Clean Sweep program in which volunteers would gather once a week to clean up downtown and sidewalks.

I know I haven't included everything that was discussed. If you attended the forum, please add your comments about the discussion. If you weren’t able to attend, what’s your question or comment? Click the comment link to let us know.

Conversation continued after the program.