[caption id="attachment_2367" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit: Geoffrey Steadman[/caption] Nestled along Norwalk's coastline, Manresa Island stands as a testament to Connecticut's industrial past and a beacon of its sustainable future. This 144-acre property, once home to a power plant, is now poised for an exciting transformation that promises to reshape the landscape and enrich the community. The long-awaited transformation of Manresa Island is finally taking shape. This ambitious project promises to turn a former industrial site into a stunning public park and community hub that will redefine our city's waterfront. Local philanthropists Austin and Allison McChord have purchased the 125-acre brownfield site for $40 million, with plans to develop it as a gift to their hometown. This generous initiative ensures that Manresa Island will become a cherished public space for generations to come.

Historical Context

For over half a century, Manresa Island played a crucial role in powering the region. The site's journey began in 1960 with a coal-fired plant, later transitioning to oil in 1972. However, Hurricane Sandy's storm surge inundated the site in 2012, leading to the plant's closure in 2013. This event marked the beginning of a new era for Manresa Island. The Manresa Association, formed in 2013, has been at the forefront of advocacy for the island's future. With over 900 households and several local organizations as members, the association has been instrumental in shaping the vision for Manresa. Find more information on our Manresa Island Plan. [caption id="attachment_2368" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit: Geoffrey Steadman[/caption]

Collaborative Study

In 2017, a groundbreaking partnership between the Manresa Association and the City of Norwalk initiated a comprehensive study. This collaborative effort aimed to:

• Identify potential future uses for the property
• Assess the economic impact of various development scenarios
• Engage key stakeholders, including city departments and NRG Energy (the plant's owner)

Environmental Considerations

The study provided crucial insights into:

• Current environmental and ecological conditions
• Ongoing and planned remediation efforts
• Potential approaches for further environmental restoration

Looking Ahead

As Norwalk envisions the future of Manresa Island, the focus remains on:

• Ensuring environmental safety
• Preserving open spaces and conservation habitats
• Enhancing the physical beauty of Norwalk and the Long Island Sound coastline

[caption id="attachment_2369" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit: Geoffrey Steadman[/caption]

Get Involved

The transformation of Manresa Island is an ongoing process that will shape Norwalk's future. Stay informed and contribute to this exciting project by:

• Attending a free tour of the island and building in 2025
• Joining the Manresa Association
• Participating in community discussions

Read on for more about the park design, and visit the park’s website for more information: Manresaislandpark.org

Tuesday, August 13, 2024 6 – 7:30 pm In-person & online South Norwalk Library, 10 Washington St

  Please join us for an interactive workshop to help the City of Norwalk and the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency determine which technology investments can improve economic opportunities, safety, and quality of life in South Norwalk. The event will include a presentation and an interactive session where attendees can share their thoughts and opinions. Light refreshments will be served. If you would like to attend, please register, and we will send you additional information before the meeting.

Register Here

 

The City of Norwalk is continuously growing and developing. While the city government can form commissions and committees of experienced professionals to lend their guidance and expertise to our improvement projects, what’s really needed to make it work is you. Only civic participation in the planning process by residents and stakeholders like you can ensure that the recommendations and decisions that are made will truly benefit all the citizens of Norwalk, CT. No matter your age, ability, or walk of life, there are many rewarding ways that you can get involved in building a better City of Norwalk now and tomorrow. In this article, we explore the impact your engagement has on our city and ways that you can get involved!

Why Is Civic Engagement Important?

Civic participation is vital for ensuring that the changes made in our community are positive and beneficial for the greatest number of people. It’s an opportunity for residents to work together to identify community needs and issues and help to find appropriate and effective solutions. By collaborating closely with their local government, citizens can hold city officials accountable and influence the decisions that will affect their lives. Adding your thoughts and ideas to the conversation isn’t the only way you can get involved in making Norwalk, CT, a better place. Volunteers are always needed to help get the word out about public meetings and open houses, conduct surveys, organize neighborhood initiatives, help transport elderly and disabled residents to events, and much more. There are many ways Norwalk residents can participate in planning the future of our wonderful city. Check out some of these popular volunteer opportunities around our community:

• Volunteer Opportunities with the Norwalk Public Library
• Get Involved with Norwalk Tomorrow

Civic Engagement Builds Strong Communities

Cities and towns with higher levels of citizen participation in the processes of local government also gain a greater sense of community as neighbors and public servants work together to accomplish their goals. Barriers are overcome and common ground is discovered through dialogue and conversation and a shared sense of purpose. Civic engagement helps to improve city leadership as public servants gain a better understanding of their constituents, their daily lives, problems, needs, and the issues that most concern them. Active involvement by citizens in participatory planning raises the levels of trust between residents and public institutions, leading to more efficient and responsive governance. Public services are improved, city initiatives are implemented and completed in a timely fashion, and crime rates are lowered. Your active participation in city planning initiatives is one of the best ways you can help build a stronger Norwalk community. Click here to see upcoming meetings for Norwalk, CT

How You Can Get Involved

We encourage all Norwalk residents to get involved in city planning initiatives in partnership with Norwalk Tomorrow. It’s a great way to share your thoughts and ideas and play an important role in shaping the future of your city. Here are some ways you can participate:

1. Participate in public meetings and open houses: These events provide an opportunity to make your comments in person directly to city planners and administrators. Find more information here.
2. Share your opinions in surveys: Norwalk Tomorrow, the City and Norwalk Redevelopment Agency, conduct regular surveys of residents both online and through the mail.
3. Join local boards and committees: All residents are welcome to apply to become a member of various planning bodies and take part in the decision-making process. Learn more about joining here.
4. Contact your local representatives: Norwalk residents can easily connect with city leaders through email, social media, by phone, or in-person to share their thoughts and concerns.
5. Volunteer for community service: There are always opportunities available for citizens to help out at a grassroots level, including working at the polls and organizing neighborhood outreach programs.
6. Stay informed: Keep up to date on the progress of Norwalk Tomorrow's planning initiatives through our regularly updated website. In addition, other City initiatives of interest can be found here. 
7. Support local businesses and organizations: Our local business community and commercial partnerships are vital to keeping Norwalk, CT, economically strong. Support local businesses here.

Civic engagement through participating in the development and implementation of city planning initiatives is vital to creating a community that best serves the needs of all residents of Norwalk, CT, and you can help. Stay tuned to our website for news, updates, and opportunities for you to get involved, and feel free to contact Norwalk Tomorrow through our online portal if you have any questions.

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New Strategic Harbor Plan for Norwalk, CT

The City of Norwalk is embarking on a visionary journey to revitalize its waterfront through the development of a new Strategic Harbor Plan. This ambitious initiative aims to harness the full potential of Norwalk Harbor, making it more accessible and beneficial for both residents and local businesses.

About the Strategic Harbor Plan

Norwalk is seeking expertise from qualified firms to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the Harbor's current uses. The goal is to craft a series of actionable recommendations that will enhance the Harbor's recreational and commercial appeal. This initiative seeks to open new avenues for public access to the Harbor and the city’s waterways, enriching the community's connection with its maritime heritage. The project is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds, emphasizing the importance of an active registration with the System for Award Management (SAM). Norwalk’s maritime history and its strategic location along the Long Island Sound have long been central to its identity and economy. With over 37% of its area covered by water, the city's unique geography offers numerous opportunities for development and engagement with the water. The Strategic Harbor Plan encompasses the analysis of current recreational and commercial uses, identification of opportunities for increased Harbor use, and recommendations for the management and enhancement of public access and facilities. The plan will also address water quality, sustainability, resilience, and opportunities to expose the community, especially the youth, to maritime activities and careers.

Key Focus Areas

• Management and Implementation: The plan will explore innovative strategies for the management of moorings, collection of fees, and the integration of technology in Harbor management.
• Making Norwalk Harbor a Destination: Enhancements aim to attract regional boaters with improved facilities and services, making the Harbor a gateway to Norwalk’s vibrant entertainment and dining venues.
• Public Access and Environmental Sustainability: Proposals will focus on expanding public access points, addressing water quality and climate change impacts, and promoting sustainable use of the Harbor.
• Community Involvement: The strategy underscores the importance of community participation, from the plan’s inception to its adoption, to ensure it reflects the desires and needs of Norwalk’s residents.

The Strategic Harbor Plan will deliver a comprehensive audit of current Harbor uses, provide recommendations for development, and identify potential projects and funding opportunities. It will also emphasize public outreach, ensuring the community's voice is integral to the planning process. Ideally, this strategic plan should be completed within 12 to 18 months after execution of contract. The Strategic Harbor Plan is a visionary step forward for Norwalk, promising to transform the Harbor into a more vibrant, accessible, and sustainable asset for the city. With the support of the community and the guidance of expert consultants, Norwalk is set to embark on a transformative journey that will benefit residents and businesses alike for generations to come. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged with the planning process through the Norwalk Tomorrow platform and the City of Norwalk website, where updates and opportunities for participation will be shared. Together, we can shape a waterfront that reflects our community’s aspirations and respects our rich maritime heritage.

Norwalk is on the brink of a transformative project that will reimagine Veteran's Memorial Park (Vet’s Park) into a beacon of resilience, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. The City of Norwalk with the help of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, are commencing a redesign project for Vet’s Park. This ambitious project aims to harness the power of green infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and living shorelines to not only combat climate change impacts but also to elevate the quality of life for its residents.

Project Vision

At the heart of this redesign is the commitment to prepare Vet’s Park for the challenges of stormwater management, flooding, and erosion while enhancing its 36-acre waterfront expanse. By integrating flood-adaptive public spaces, the initiative seeks to guide future implementation plans that will bolster coastal habitat, improve public shoreline access, and increase the park's resilience to environmental adversities.

The Challenge & Solution

Once a thriving tidal wetland, Vet's Park has faced decades of ecological neglect, manifested in erosion, flooding, and diminished habitat value. Today, the park is plagued with:

• Chronic erosion
• Lack of stormwater management
• Recurring coastal flooding
• Saltwater inundation

The City’s solution revolves around a comprehensive site assessment and the creation of conceptual design plans. These plans envision a park that is not only a recreational haven but also a front-line defender against sea level rise, offering a restored coastal marsh, native plant habitats, and innovative stormwater management techniques. The conceptual plans include the installation of green infrastructure around the northern portions of the park to protect it from flooding impacts, reduce the volume of stormwater runoff, and improve the quality of the runoff water through capture and filtration systems. The southern portions of the park would be reverted back into a protective native plant habitat. A “buffer” design would provide room for sea level rise migration of the coastal marsh, give rise to migratory and native bird habitats, and be partially accessible with a boardwalk.

Community & Ecological Impact

The redesign of Vet's Park is poised to redefine its role within the community and the broader ecosystem of Norwalk Harbor. By transitioning areas of the park into native plant-dominated habitats and installing living shorelines, the project will enhance: 

• Biodiversity
• Improve water quality
• Provide essential habitats for local wildlife

Furthermore, the initiative will reintroduce the park as a vibrant community asset, where recreation, accessibility, and ecological responsibility intersect.

Engagement & Education

In partnership with The Maritime Aquarium and the City’s Recreation & Parks Department, the redesigned park will serve as an educational platform, connecting urban residents with the natural splendors of Long Island Sound. Through hands-on programming and stewardship opportunities, the project aims to foster a sense of community ownership and environmental awareness among Norwalk's residents.

Looking Forward

As we embark on this journey to revitalize Veteran's Memorial Park, we are guided by a vision of sustainability, resilience, and community enrichment. The project not only aims to restore the park's ecological integrity but also to create a space where nature and community thrive in harmony. We invite the residents of Norwalk to join us in shaping the future of Veteran's Park, a future where the legacy of our veterans is honored through our commitment to preserving and enhancing our natural heritage for generations to come. Stay tuned to Norwalk Tomorrow for updates on this exciting project, as we work together to make Veteran's Park a model of urban resilience and environmental stewardship. Click here to subscribe to our email list and receive the latest news and announcements.

As cities continue to grow and evolve, the role of art in public places becomes increasingly important. Not only does it add beauty and character to urban spaces, but it also has a significant impact on economic development. Here in Norwalk, CT, we have seen firsthand how commissioning public art can benefit our city and its residents. Our community's identity has been strengthened by groups like the Norwalk Arts and Cultural Commission and the Norwalk Historical Society that support the city in creating colorful murals, traffic graphics, and interactive sculptures in Norwalk, CT.

The Benefits of Public Art

Commissioning public art can bring numerous benefits to a city, including:

• Attracting tourists and visitors: Public art has the power to draw people in and make them want to explore a city. This can result in increased tourism and economic growth.
• Enhancing public spaces: By adding art to public spaces, we can make them more engaging and enjoyable for residents and visitors. This can also lead to a sense of pride and ownership among the community.
• Encouraging dialogue and interaction: Public art often sparks conversations and allows people to connect in unique ways. It can serve as a catalyst for meaningful discussions about relevant social issues.
• Supporting local artists: Commissioning public art provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talents and contribute to the community's cultural landscape.

Norwalk's Art Commission

The Norwalk Arts and Cultural Commission is an essential part of our city's public art initiatives. They understand the significant impact of art on economic growth and play a crucial role in enhancing Norwalk's cultural scene. The commission is at the forefront of our public art efforts and is instrumental in enriching Norwalk's cultural landscape. Composed of 11 Norwalk residents appointed by the Mayor and Common Council, the commission brings together artists, architects, educators, and passionate community members. This rich tapestry of perspectives helps to ensure that each piece of art commissioned embodies our community's shared values and aspirations. The core function of the commission is not just to select and oversee the installation of artwork, but also to ensure that each commissioned piece speaks to the heart of Norwalk. Through their work, the commission aims to inspire creativity, foster community dialogue, and enhance the visual appeal of our city. Monthly commission meetings are held on the 1st Tuesday of every month at 6:00 PM and are open to everyone.  Their efforts have contributed to the vibrant public art scene in Norwalk, transforming our city into an open-air gallery that beckons visitors and instills pride in residents. This is a testament to the power of art in driving economic development and enhancing the quality of life in our city.

Norwalk, CT Public Art

One of the remarkable aspects of Norwalk's public art initiative is the diverse backgrounds of the artists it features. Our city's public art scene is a canvas where the local and international confluence happens, resulting in a vibrant cultural mosaic. Many local talents like Duvian Montoya, David Boyajian, and Raf Santaella (aka @5ivefingaz) have contributed immensely to the city's public art landscape. Montoya's mural, "Circus Coming to Town," humorously and nostalgically captures the city's historic link to the Ringling Brothers’ circus, while Boyajian's "Pinwheel," an elegant, twisting metal sculpture, adds a touch of abstract beauty to Mathews Park. Norwalk's art scene has also been enriched by artists with distinct voices. One such example is "The Promised Land,” painted by Lauren Clayton, a Stamford-based artist with Norwalk roots.. Her murals, located in two locations - the pump station at the intersection of Wilson and MLK Avenues, and the renovated staircase leading down from the South Norwalk train station - were created to honor MLK’s legacy and build a sense of community.  This mixture of diverse artistic expressions from local and international artists strengthens Norwalk's cultural scene while contributing to its economic growth. Public spaces for art make our city more engaging and enjoyable for residents and visitors, leading to a sense of pride and ownership in the community. 

Join Us in Shaping Norwalk's Future

Public art has the power to captivate people and make them want to explore the city. Art enhances public spaces by making them more engaging and creating a sense of pride and ownership in the community. Commissioning public art provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talents and contribute to the cultural landscape of the community. We invite you to join Norwalk, Connecticut public art initiatives. There are so many ways you can get involved - attend meetings and events, share your thoughts on social media, or even submit your ideas for future projects. Let's work together to make Norwalk an even more welcoming and vibrant place! #SupportNorwalkArts  You may follow Norwalk arts initiatives on on Facebook and Instagram for more updates, or email sgodeski@norwalkct.gov with any questions you may have. 

City Planning Efforts

Norwalk is working on an Affordable Housing Action Plan to assess the City’s affordable housing needs and address their potential economic, environmental, and social equity impacts. The State of Connecticut defines "affordable rental and homeownership units” as housing that costs no more than 30% of a household’s income. The Affordable Housing Action Plan will help the City to identify the different levels and types of affordable housing needed while providing guidance and direction on how to achieve that. The intent of the Plan is also to meet the State mandated 8-30j regulation and any updates to the regulation that are made during the planning process. There is currently a State Commission reviewing the requirements of the state-mandated affordable housing plan, so we expect there will be changes to this RFP.

Plan Goals

• An inventory of the City’s existing housing and its current conditions
• An analysis of housing needs, cost, and affordability
• Trends in housing costs and housing development
• A projection of housing needs for the medium - (next 5 years) and long-term (10 years).
• A comparison between housing trends and housing needs
• An analysis of the City’s housing programs and tools, including a gap analysis, their effectiveness in meeting goals, how well they are targeted towards housing needs, and how they can be improved
• A desirable development scenario with input from the city, the public, and other stakeholders
• Strategies to safeguard housing affordability and increase economic opportunity for current and future residents
• Comprehensive implementation strategy and timeline, based on the affordable housing scenarios
• Guidebook to affordable housing in Norwalk for residents and government officials

Other Resources

• Report of the Affordable Housing Plans Working Group 
• Revised Scope for Norwalk Affordable Housing Plan (02/16/2023) 
• Affordable Housing Plan Consultant Services 
• PA 21 - 29 OLR Summary 
• 8 - 30j Affordable Housing Plan

Plan Materials

• Norwalk Talks Housing Public Engagement Summary (Word Doc)
• Norwalk Talks Housing Public Engagement Summary (PDF)
• Norwalk Housing Needs Assessment (PDF)

Norwalk is recognized by families and businesses as one of the best places to live. Its population now exceeds 92,000 residents and it is the 6th largest city in Connecticut. It comes as no surprise that there is a lot of economic opportunity in Norwalk, and new businesses are starting up on a very regular basis. To aid Norwalk-based entrepreneurs and new business owners, the city has created a new Business Development Center. Read on to learn about this brand new facility and the services provided.

What is the Business Development Center?

[caption id="attachment_2140" align="alignleft" width="1024"] Photo courtesy of Nancy Chapman[/caption] The new business center, located at 3 Belden Avenue, was opened on November 3, 2022. It’s designed to be an all-inclusive resource that entrepreneurs and business owners can utilize throughout the life cycle of their businesses. This center was constructed using various sources of federal, state, and local funding. The American Rescue Plan Act gave the development center a vital infusion of funding to help complete it. "We have the opportunity to have staff onsite to be able to assist with local and state grants, be able to build business plans, business models, offer professional development training, and be able to offer residents…and people in the region, as a whole, an opportunity to be able to take a dream that they may have stored for a very long time and actually make it a reality,” says Jessica Vonashek, Chief of Economic and Community Development for the City of Norwalk.

What Services does the Business Development Center Provide?

Whether you are looking at starting a business or expanding one, the development center can help you. Services are extensive and cover a variety of topics:

• Financial Education
• Loan or Grant Application Assistance
• Technical Support for Local, State, or Federal Permitting
• Business Plan Development and Implementation
• Local and State Licensing Requirements
• Insurance for Your Business
• Market Research

Financing is another popular topic among entrepreneurs. Prospective business owners want to know how to infuse capital into their companies. The Business Development Center resources can walk you through traditional lending options, local programs, and Small Business Administration (SBA) programs. All of these resources are available free of charge to ensure these resources are accessible to everyone. The Business Development Center is a partnership with the City of Norwalk, the Greater Norwalk Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, The Greater Norwalk Chamber of Commerce, SCORE, the Small Business Development Council, the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency, the Women’s Business Development Council, and the NAACP. This partnership ensures that there is support for your business that is diverse and equitable.

Have More Questions?

With the help of private sector experts and higher-education resources, you can make your dream of starting your new business in Norwalk, CT a reality. If you want to learn more about Norwalk’s Business Development Center, contact us today or come visit us at the Norwalk Business Development Center Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm.

A significant portion of the waterfront in Norwalk, CT has been zoned and used for industrial use. The city undertook a planning exercise to determine the appropriate land uses for these historically industrial waterfronts. The draft plan, Industrial Waterfront Land Use Plan, has been developed for the city to use as a policy roadmap, allowing these areas to grow and change in a way that balances and aligns with both public and private needs.  

Changes to the zoning laws around the Norwalk waterfront will be aimed at promoting economic development and preserving the water dependent uses in the area, while also increasing public access, improving water quality through improved drainage techniques and providing native vegetative buffers, while also improving the built environment. Read more to find out some of these suggestions for how to revise this waterfront. 

Why the Norwalk, CT Waterfront Rezoning Matters

Before we begin, let’s take a quick look at why the Norwalk waterfront needed to be reevaluated.

It’s quite an understatement to say that industrial waterfront land has vastly changed in the last century.  In Norwalk, the use of industrial waterfront has been transitioning from strictly industrial uses to less intense uses, such as marinas and small boat facilities, while legacy uses such as oyster harvesting and bulkhead repairs continue to be integral parts of the community.  In addition, modern innovations, like the innovative boat building and storage or marine highway programs like harbor harvest hold promise for future economic success for our harbor.

However, updating industrial waterfronts comes with its challenges. The historical use of Norwalk's urban waterfront plays such an enormous part in the city's identity. It's also an essential piece of the local economy.  The Norwalk waterfront has an array of uses.Some areas are zoned exclusively for heavy industrial uses, while others are reserved for commercial or public use and some have a mix of uses which can include residential This is why the Norwalk Industrial Waterfront Land Use planning process looked at ways to benefit both public and private institutions alike, including the input of many stakeholders to thoughtfully address these uses. Read further to learn about the major themes that occurred throughout the planning process.

1. Increased Public Access

One common desire mentioned in the numerous meetings with the public is for Norwalk residents and tourists to have more access to the waterfront. An asphalt factory near the head of the Norwalk river is a good example. Not only is The facility under-utilized, but locating an asphalt plant in proximity to your downtown is not a desired land-use scenario.  In addition, the public feels the land could better serve the community by broadening its usage. This automatically indicates the need for changing the zoning laws, which is already underway. This site would need to be rezoned from its current industrial status. It's just one example of how shifting the zoning laws may impact the broader waterfront ecology.

2. Reduced Heavy Industry

Rezoning to determine the appropriate types of heavy industrial usage and where they should be located have been common themes across every public meeting. The current zoning laws prioritize heavy industry. The updated zoning regulations would increase light industrial and artisanal industries. These would be able to exist alongside residential zones to buffer more heavy industrial uses. This would allow for more mixed-use areas near the waterfront.

3. Mixed Use

Whatever form the final rezoning takes, mixed-use could play an important part. We see this in the proposal of placing light industry next to residential, for instance.  This would open the way for mixed-use marine commercial zoning, allowing more marine commercial businesses to remain on the waterfront while opening up the area around them for mixed uses. Examples of marine commercial businesses could include yacht clubs or marinas while mixed uses could be a marine retail store with residential above.

4. Reimagining Water Street  

How Water Street looks, feels and functions has been debated many times over the years.  The Plan’s vision for the area strives to strike a balance between the desire for public access and views of the water, with the need to support Norwalk’s thriving marine industries, while also improving the built environment of the street to compliment the desired development occurring elsewhere in the neighborhood.   Increasing the amount of greenery, particularly waterfront buffers, is another common concern, which would also help to address environmental issues. This is another major goal for many of the proposed changes to the industrial waterfront.  These suggestions will all help to keep the area vital, making it more appealing to residents and visitors.

5.  Retain Protect, and Reinvest in Water-Dependent Businesses 

There was consensus among stakeholders of the need to support and maybe even expand businesses that are water dependent in Norwalk, especially in the Water Street Marina area in South Norwalk. The concern is that they continue to contribute to Norwalk and the regional economy.   Ways to do this include: increasing the protected marine commercial zone and investing in infrastructure for these industries– such as bulkheads, dock repairs, and dredging of the Norwalk River.   While this is an acknowledged goal of the plan, it must be done in a way that considers the other identified needs and goals of the study, so the waterfront is resilient, active and accessible to all.  

6. Preserve the Environment and Prepare for Resiliency  

For waterfront areas, consideration of environmental factors is especially important. Recommendations for all the waterfront parcels is to increase flood resilience, improve water quality, and promote ecological restoration.  Investing in things like impermeable to permeable pavement or vegetation/soft shoreline would help reduce flooding in the more urban areas of the waterfront. These would limit property damage and ensure businesses are able to resume operations soon after a major storm. Expansion of tidal marshes, living shoreline, vegetative buffers, or other passive flood protection would help to mitigate flooding, improve water quality, and restore habitat in less inhabited areas.  The final recommendations in the plan, like those above, will inform the city as they work to update policy and develop the waterfront along Norwalk Harbor and the Norwalk River, including the Harbor Management Plan as well as land use regulations. Stay up-to-date on the Norwalk, CT waterfront and other planning efforts of the City and give us your input.  

Read the Full Plan For Recommendations for Different Areas