Urban agriculture is experiencing steady growth in Norwalk, CT. It offers residents fresh food, fosters community connections, and promotes environmental sustainability. From vibrant farmers markets to community gardens, these initiatives are transforming our city into a greener, healthier place to live.

Embracing Urban Farming in Norwalk

Across the United States, urban agriculture is gaining momentum, and Norwalk is no exception. As awareness of environmental issues and the benefits of locally sourced food grows, urban agriculture has become a cornerstone of our community. Residents are turning rooftops, backyards, and community spaces into productive gardens, creating a more sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyle. Urban farming in Norwalk extends beyond growing plants. It's about nurturing a healthier, more connected community, too. By engaging in local food production, our residents are strengthening community ties and contributing to environmental stewardship.

Norwalk's Farmers Markets: Fresh Produce and Community Spirit

• SoNo Saturday Market
  • When: The last Saturday of every month from June to October, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Where:  50 Washington Street, Norwalk, CT
  • Details: Brought to you by Visit Norwalk, this new market features local farmers and artisans, offering a vibrant space for small businesses to sell their products in the heart of the city during the busy season.

• Norwalk Community Health Center Farmers Market
  • When: Wednesdays, June 4 – November 12, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Where: 120 Connecticut Avenue, Norwalk, CT
  • Details: Offers fresh produce and accepts SNAP/EBT benefits.
• Rowayton Farmers Market at Pinkney Park
  • When: Fridays, May – November, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  • Where: 177 Rowayton Avenue, Norwalk, CT
  • Details: Features local vendors and a scenic setting. 
  • Visit their Instagram
• First Congregational Church Farmers Market
  • When: Saturdays, June – October, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Where: 3 Lewis Street, Norwalk, CT
  • Details: Offers a variety of local produce and goods.
  • Visit their Instagram

Experience Norwalk’s Most Vibrant Outdoor Market — Every Last Saturday!

Join us for the SoNo Saturday Market, a monthly outdoor celebration of community, creativity, and commerce in the heart of South Norwalk (SoNo). Taking place every second Saturday from May through October, this local event brings together the best of Norwalk’s small businesses, artisans, musicians, and food vendors—all in one family-friendly destination.

What to Expect

Whether you're a longtime resident or visiting Norwalk for the day, the SoNo Saturday Market offers something for everyone:

• Handmade crafts, art, jewelry, and home goods from local makers
• Fresh produce and delicious bites from Norwalk’s favorite food trucks and pop-up eateries
• Live music and street performances showcasing Norwalk’s local talent
• Fun activities and surprises for all ages—perfect for families and friends
• A lively, walkable environment that encourages shopping small and supporting local

Location & Parking

Where: 50 Washington Street in the historic SoNo district of Norwalk, CT When: Second Saturday of each month (June to September) 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Nearby Parking: Convenient parking is available at the Haviland Street Garage, North Water Lot, Maritime Garage, and Webster Lot—all just steps from the event. Visit ParkNorwalk.org for real-time parking updates.

Why You Should Visit

The SoNo Saturday Market is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Norwalk’s vibrant culture, local economy, and artistic spirit. By attending, you’re directly supporting Connecticut entrepreneurs, encouraging sustainable shopping, and enjoying one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Fairfield County.

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[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

The City of Norwalk, in partnership with The Norwalk Land Trust, is developing preliminary designs aimed at revitalizing the South Norwalk salt marsh and implementing innovative green infrastructure to enhance flood resilience. This ambitious project, situated within the urban core of South Norwalk and encompassing five acres in and adjacent to the Village Creek Estuary, is designed to not only rehabilitate a degraded salt marsh but also to significantly improve stormwater management, thereby reducing the risk of flood damage to the surrounding neighborhoods.

Revitalizing the Salt Marsh for Future Generations

Historically, the Village Creek estuary has suffered from extensive development and neglect, resulting in the loss of two-thirds of its original salt marsh area. A key focus of the rehabilitation effort will be on a three-acre section in the northwesternmost portion of the estuary, which has been isolated and degraded due to an old bermed roadway. This area has seen a significant loss of native high marsh plant species and an invasion of Phragmites australis, a common reed that undermines the ecological integrity of salt marshes. The project aims to remove the historic fill and reintroduce native vegetation, thereby restoring the natural tidal flush and enhancing the marsh's resilience to flooding.

Green Infrastructure: A Sustainable Approach to Stormwater Management

In response to the challenges posed by episodic roadway flooding and the need for improved stormwater quality, Norwalk plans to employ green infrastructure within its road rights-of-way and public parcels. This includes the installation of bioswales, rain gardens, tree boxes, and canopy trees along city streets, as well as the incorporation of pervious pavement and detention basins in new developments like the neighborhood school at 1 Meadow Street Extension. These measures are designed to reduce runoff, filter pollutants, and increase the absorption of stormwater, thereby mitigating flood risks and enhancing the quality of water discharged into the salt marsh.

Community Engagement and Resilience Building

Understanding the vital role of community support and engagement, the city is committed to working closely with local residents, businesses, and stakeholders throughout the project. The Maritime Aquarium will provide support through their strong knowledge of the salt marsh habitat and professional staff of scientists, and local government departments will collaborate.  South Norwalk, with its diverse and vibrant community, stands to benefit significantly from these efforts. By addressing flood vulnerability and enhancing environmental quality, the project aims to create a safer, more resilient, and more livable neighborhood for all.

A Vision for the Future

This initiative is not just about addressing current challenges but is also a forward-looking effort to prepare Norwalk for the impacts of climate change, including sea-level rise and more frequent and intense storm events. By restoring the salt marsh and implementing green infrastructure, Norwalk is taking a significant step towards a sustainable future, ensuring that the city remains a resilient and thriving community for generations to come.

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. 

Urban farming is one solution to the increasing demand for food production in cities. As the world population continues to grow, we face a challenge to create sustainable food systems that can accommodate the demand for healthy food options. In this blog, we explore the benefits of urban farming and share ways Norwalk residents can incorporate gardens in their apartments and neighborhoods.

Sustainable Food Production

One type of urban farming seen in cities is called Vertical Farming, a modern method of growing crops in vertically stacked layers using artificial lighting, controlled temperature, and irrigation systems. This technique can produce up to 90% more food per square foot than traditional farming and requires less water and pesticides. Other types of urban farming can include community gardens, farmers markets, rooftop gardens, or as small as a garden in your own apartment.  By incorporating urban farming in cities, we can improve food access while lowering our carbon footprint. Urban farming allows for a decrease in transportation costs and reduces the need for preservatives and chemicals often used in mass production crops.

Support Your Neighbors through Urban Agriculture

Urban farming has the potential to create a resilient local food economy. By supporting local farms, we're investing in our community's health and vitality. Urban farming provides income opportunities for residents and reduces the reliance on food imports, creating local jobs in the community. As consumers, we can support local farms by shopping at farmers' markets and participating in Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. Through these programs, families can receive a weekly supply of fresh vegetables and fruits straight from their neighborhood.

Urban Garden Hacks: How to Start a Garden in Your Apartment

Apartment living doesn't mean we can't join the urban farming movement. There are plenty of ways to incorporate gardens in our apartments, balconies, and windowsills. Container gardens, indoor vertical gardens, and hydroponic setups can bring a variety of vegetables and herbs to your kitchen table. Starting an apartment garden can seem daunting, but it's easier than you think. With the right tools and some patience, anyone can grow their own food. Local nurseries or hardware stores can provide advice and starter kits to make the journey a little smoother. Check out these apartment garden ideas on Pinterest.

Connecting Communities through Urban Farms

Urban farming can bring people together, creating a sense of community around food. Participating in urban farms and community gardens can connect people from diverse backgrounds around a shared interest in sustainable food production. It can also create opportunities for educational programming and cultural exchange around food traditions. Community gardens are often managed through a partnership between local government, nonprofits, and residents. By participating in the management of these gardens, residents have a voice in the food system and can contribute to a more sustainable future for their community. If you’re interested in getting involved with a local garden community, look no further than Fodor Farm. A historical landmark dating back to 1809, Fodor Farm is now the home of sustainable gardens, food and garden demonstrations, and a newly updated event venue. On the grounds you’ll find 300 working plots and gardens that Norwalk, CT residents can rent for the season. Click here to learn more about Fodor Farm. Urban farming is a vital solution for creating sustainable food systems in cities. Norwalk residents can benefit from the economic and environmental advantages of urban farming by supporting local farmers, starting their own gardens, and participating in community gardening programs. By investing in urban farming, we can reduce our carbon footprint, support our local economy, and foster a sense of community around food.