Downtown New Canaan is much brighter, even at night, resident Keith Simpson says. Several new lampposts, with a small-town design, have accomplished that. The installation of the new lampposts continues, thanks to a joint effort of the town and the New Canaan Chamber of Commerce. The project is part of a plan to make the heart of the town more appealing and welcoming.
Simpson, a town resident of more than 30 years and a landscape architect, recommended the installation of more-appealing lamps in 1992. Previously, large overhead lights like those used on highways were responsible for visibility. "They've change the character of downtown," Simpson said. "At night, it makes downtown more attractive. It adds a lot of charm to downtown."
Fifteen new lamps will be placed on Main Street this year after the Board of Selectmen voted last week to approve the third phase of the lamppost plan. The chamber of commerce collected donations for the posts, which will be installed by public works crews. Similar posts are already in place on Elm and Fourth streets.
"Yes, we have seen more traffic. Many more restaurants have opened. That brings in a significant increase in evening traffic," Simpson said. "People feel safe and welcome to visit town in the evening."
Chamber Director Tucker Murphy said the new lights include outlets that allow merchants to plug in holiday lights that will be strung on trees in December. Murphy hopes the latest set of lights will be installed by December.
"It has been a challenge to raise the money we need to raise, but it has happened and that is thanks to the people who cherish the village feel we have," Murphy said.
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