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First Selectman Jeb Walker on Wednesday announced that the time was right for the town to remake and upgrade downtown buildings. The catalyst for the idea was the librarys need to replace its building.
Walker described the plan as a once in a lifetime opportunity and said the town would work with the library, which has been looking to replace its aging facility, which was built in 1913 and expanded in 1979.
Walker said the town would cooperate with the library and that he would appoint a committee to develop a plan. Under consideration would be addressing building problems at Town Hall and the fire station. The committee will also look into constructing a new home for the Board of Educations central offices and adding parking to downtown.
The problems at Town Hall include meeting OSHA requirements, as well as improving accessibility. The fire station faces problems including operational and structural deficiencies and deferred maintenance
Walker announced the plan at Town Hall. Joining him were members of the Board of Selectman, Town Council, Board of Finance and library board. "The decision by the library board to build a new library presents a unique opportunity for the town to plan for and implement some necessary civic improvements, Walker said in a prepared statement. While in the past we have looked at various projects individually such as the Town Hall renovation, expanding parking, and upgrading downtown the need for a new library is a catalyst for action."
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