Developers answer questions about Civic Center redevelopment

Residents dance during a concert on the Norwalk Civic Center lawn on Aug. 4. The city is considering redeveloping the land to include shops, restaurants and homes. (City of Norwalk photo)

NORWALK – Primester representatives answered Norwalk community members’ questions on the possible ways the entertainment district can be enhanced during an Aug. 10 informational meeting.

Director of Community Outreach, Claudia Cardenas, and Development Manager, Ryan Aubry, shared what the construction company would like to add to the entertainment district. Based on previous community outreach they conducted earlier this year, they were able to predict what would help the community.

The representative emphasized that no ideas were final, and they are still taking suggestions from the community.

Aubry suggested that large city events, such as the Fourth of July fireworks show, have outgrown the 4.5 acres of city hall lawn.

“The city is focused on ultimately being able to hold those events at a larger site, like the 15 acres adjacent to Holifield park,” Aubry said. “So that site would exist simultaneously to introduce additional uses at the civic center.”

Holifield Park is next to Dolland Elementary School, and is surrounded by residential housing.

At the city hall lawn, Primester found that there is a need for businesses and restaurants. They are considering the addition of business, office spaces, housing and open areas for mixed use at the city hall lawn.

“The goal is to create a core for the community to come together,” said Aubry.

After presenting their ideas, the representatives answered questions from the virtual audience.

Michael Rosoff asked how Primester will make Norwalk stand-out from cities such as Long Beach and Downey.

“We want to facilitate families,” said Aubry. “That’s something we talked to the city about, facilitating restaurants that open onto open spaces where families are eating and the kids are running around and playing.”

Aubry also addressed the issue of homelessness in the area, and said liaisons would be used to keep families and children safe.

Terri Ledesma expressed that Holifield Park was meant to have sports facilities and a community garden.

“The city wants to make that area as inclusive as possible,” said Aubry. “So there can be space for events and sports. There is no intent to build commercial businesses or housing.”

The Norwalk Brew House expressed interest in renting a space in the enhanced entertainment district.

Cardenas said Primester is looking for small and local business to include in the project.

Ken White asked why the company was not looking toward empty spaces such as the empty Walmart or former swap meet to develop businesses.

“This is the opportunity to activate the open space,” said the development manager. “There is the idea that you are building out this larger district that is facilitating more business on a regular basis.”

While the representatives said they reached out to the community for ideas on the project, some audience members said they were not contacted by Primester.

Cardenas emphasized that community outreach is ongoing, and Primester is still asking for community input for the entertainment district enhancement.