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Spring has finally arrived, and we been evaluating our master project list to assess status and priorities. We started last year with 31 short, medium and long-term projects to enhance the economic vitality of Wilton, and are pleased to report that we have completed six of these projects – three marketing projects (Wilton Branding, new Wilton Website and Social Media), two Regulatory (Downtown Commercial District Ordinance Amendments and Demolition Review) and one business development (Revenue Viability Study with NRPC). Substantial work has already begun on many others. After combining several projects and adding a few new ones, we now have 24 active projects. For details, see the Eco-Dev Prioritized Projects List.
We have further rated each of these projects as High, Medium and Low priority, and have developed one-page project plans for all the High priority projects. These plans outline the key objectives, dependencies and milestones. For details, please see the Eco-Dev High Priority Project Plans. The High priority projects include the following:
- Brew Pub and/or Restaurant
- Business Development Package
- Community Engagement and Education
- Memorial Park Access
- Phase 2 Riverwalk
- Property Match-Making
- Residents’ Wants and Needs
- Signage Strategy
- Tourist Train
River Walk Phase II Update
On March 26, Bob White from GPI presented their preliminary plans for the Phase II River Walk. The plans include three sections of the River Walk:
- The West End would include a pedestrian bridge from the WHOP, tie in the current Phase I Riverwalk, include new lookouts onto the river and steps down to the river itself, and improved access to Memorial Park.
- The Main Street section includes parking adjustments and additions to the Main St Park, and would continue from the rear of the park to connect with the East End of the River Walk.
- The East End is centered on the River View Mills area, with re-configured parking, views to the river, and tie-in with the work needed for MS4 storm water treatment.
We're always looking for motivated volunteers to help with our 24 projects. If you are interested, please send an email to [email protected] with your interest.
Charter
Wilton's Economic Development Leadership Team serves the citizens and business owners of Wilton and reports to the Select Board and the Town Administrator. This team's responsibilities are to set priorities, make recommendations, and guide the execution of programs and projects that help achieve the vision of Wilton residents to remain a vibrant and thriving small town. Our goals are to protect its rural environment, historic charm, and natural resources while promoting opportunities for residential and business growth that are compatible with, responsive to and supportive of the needs of the community and local economy.
Team
| Name |
Title |
| Jennifer S. Beck |
Chair |
| Jackie Kahle |
Marketing and Communications |
| Gail Hoar |
Art and Culture |
| Mike McGonegal |
Resident Geek and Bridges |
| Dick Putnam |
Business and Train Liaison
|
| Nancy Clark |
Historical Director |
| Kat Tighe |
Branding and Design |
| Open |
NRPC and Research: Strong Towns |
| Karon Walker |
Entrepreneurship |