West Haven shoreline reopening with restrictions May 22

West Haven shoreline reopening with restrictions Friday

WEST HAVEN, May 21, 2020 — In accordance with federal, state and local guidelines, the city will reopen beaches, the shoreline boardwalk and beach parking lots Friday, but with restrictions, Mayor Nancy R. Rossi and city Health Director Maureen B. Lillis announced.

“The good news is that our efforts, including “Stay Safe, Stay Home” and social distancing, are working to a point where we can begin carefully opening the city, effective May 22,” Rossi said. “West Haven residents have really excelled with following the various federal, state and local directives. I sincerely thank you for your cooperation!”

For now, the restrictions will cover May and June, Rossi said.

During those months, parking at all beach lots is for West Haven residents only and is “limited to capacity levels that maintain a safe, reduced volume of visitors to the beaches and allows for the practicing of any applicable social distancing directives,” Rossi said.

A West Haven resident beach sticker, with the vehicle’s license plate number printed on it, is required to park in each lot and is only valid if affixed to the inside lower left corner of the vehicle’s windshield. If no sticker is present, the resident driver must show a valid driver’s license and registration, both of which must have the same city address.

Rossi said the city plans to mail the new resident beach stickers with the July tax bills.

For the boardwalk, people must maintain social distancing and wear face masks at all times, Lillis said. Social distancing includes staying at least 6 feet away from others.

“The boardwalk is not wide enough to ensure safe distancing, so face coverings will be required,” Rossi said. “This is to protect the health and safety of all individuals who use our beautiful resources.”

Also, no bikes are allowed on the boardwalk until further notice.

According to Rossi, Police Chief Joseph S. Perno has the authority to remove and ban from the city’s beaches, boardwalk and parks anyone failing to comply with measures restricting gatherings to no more than five people or maintaining social distancing. To report a social distancing complaint, call the Police Department’s nonemergency line at 203-937-3900.

Rossi added that in the coming months, residents can do their part by helping to keep West Haven’s 3 miles of public beaches clean and litter-free, saying, “Whatever you carry in, carry out.”

For the boat launch on April Street, authorities will monitor the area daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Use of the launch is for West Haven residents only. Residents must comply with COVID-19 boating guidelines from the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Lillis said.

Rossi said that other restrictions implemented amid the coronavirus pandemic will remain in effect until further notice, including the cancellation of sports and the closure of playgrounds and piers.

Although piers are closed, fishing is allowed, provided that anglers maintain social distancing and comply with COVID-19 fishing guidelines from DEEP, Lillis said.

The municipal compost site at 1 Kimberly Ave. reopened today.

Rossi said the city plans to update new guidelines for July and beyond.

“As Governor Lamont issues additional guidance, the city will continue to make the necessary changes to our directives,” Rossi said. “Please stay safe and continue looking out for each other.”

Watch the mayor’s video message on West Haven’s official YouTube Channel.

The brick Veterans Walk of Honor in Bradley Point Park. (City Photo/Michael P. Walsh, File)

Application deadline for Brick Campaign extended to July 17

WEST HAVEN, May 21, 2020 — The West Haven Veterans Council has extended the application deadline to July 17 for the 13th phase of its popular Brick Campaign.

Download a Brick Application.

Veterans Council members and city officials will dedicate the 13th phase of the brick Veterans Walk of Walk of Honor at 10:45 a.m. Nov. 11 in Bradley Point Park.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic and social distancing restrictions, the event, originally slated for May 23, has been rescheduled to coincide with the annual Veterans Day tribute.

In November 2006, the council began the first of 13 campaigns selling bricks to memorialize veterans on the 100-yard Walk of Honor between the William A. Soderman and Vietnam Veterans memorials.

The bricks, which cost $75, have charcoal lettering for personalized messages.

More than 2,700 bricks have been installed so far, including 51 for the 12th phase, which was dedicated May 25, 2019.

Park-Rec holds photo challenge

WEST HAVEN, May 21, 2020 — Are you running out of ideas and looking for something to do during this unprecedented time of social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic?

Why not test your knowledge and awareness of things and locations found right here in West Haven!

The Department of Parks and Recreation will post a photo weekly at https://www.whparkrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29656 for you and your family to figure out “what or where is it?” Then all you have to do is respond by registering* and give your answer.

The names of individuals with the correct answer for each week’s photo challenge will be placed in a random weekly drawing* for a $50 Park-Rec gift certificate/household account credit.

So, are you up for the challenge? Good luck!

* Please, only one registration/entry per family per week.

City promotes outdoor dining as Lamont lifts restrictions

WEST HAVEN, May 13, 2020 — As Gov. Ned Lamont loosens restrictions on restaurants to allow outdoor dining, the city is encouraging West Haven restaurant owners to immediately start using outdoor dining to support their businesses amid the coronavirus pandemic, Mayor Nancy R. Rossi and Planning and Development Commissioner Fred A. Messore announced.

Rossi said the city is also making it easier for restaurateurs to gain approval of their proposed outdoor dining plans, for up to four tables and 16 seats, by simplifying the application process and waiving the permit fees until Sept. 1.

On May 11, the City Council approved a communication by Rossi to suspend the outdoor dining permit fees in accordance with COVID-19 restrictions. The mayor worked on the proposal with council Finance Committee Chairwoman Bridgette J. Hoskie, D-1.

“I want to do everything I can to help our restaurants and all of our businesses in these challenging times,” said Rossi, who thanked council members for supporting the initiative.

The city has been at the forefront of promoting outdoor dining since August 2019, when the Planning and Zoning Commission adopted a regulation to guide “Outdoor Dining” at West Haven restaurants.

To apply for an outdoor dining permit, restaurant owners can call the Department of Planning and Development at 203-937-3580 or contact Zoning Enforcement Officer Cathy Conniff at conniff@westhaven-ct.gov. Instructions for completing an application are available at http://cityofwesthaven.com/DocumentCenter/View/2423/Temporary-Outdoor-Dining-or-Retail-Display-Permit-Application-PDF.

According to Assistant City Planner David W. Killeen, the application process requires restaurant owners to submit an application form with a simple drawing of the outdoor dining layout drawn to scale. The layout must show the outdoor dining location and the number of movable chairs and tables planned for use. It also must show at least 5 feet of unobstructed and continuous sidewalk for pedestrians to walk around the area and the tables set up at least 6 feet apart for social distancing.

Killeen said that if a restaurant needs to use a public sidewalk, the owner must provide the city with a certificate of insurance for general liability in the amount not less than $2 million to comply with Section 139-12 of the West Haven Code. In addition, restaurants must comply with Section 20.10 of the West Haven Zoning Regulations, he said.

Bathhouse gets summer face-lift

WEST HAVEN, May 13, 2020 — (Pictured, from right): City sidewalk inspector Ernie Chiarelli, mayoral Executive Assistant Lou Esposito, Mayor Nancy R. Rossi and Wizard Painting Co. owner Todd Tompkins look on as a crew from Tompkins’ Savin Avenue company repairs the facade of the bathhouse on the shoreline boardwalk May 13.

The Parcel I building, which borders Old Grove Park and houses two bathrooms, an equipment garage and three offices, is receiving a thorough cleaning and overhaul, including a fresh coat of paint, before the summer season officially begins Memorial Day weekend.

(City Photo/Michael P. Walsh)

Paving the way

WEST HAVEN, May 13, 2020 — (Pictured, from right): Mayor Nancy R. Rossi, city sidewalk inspector Ernie Chiarelli and Rossi’s executive assistant, Lou Esposito, look on as a steamroller from West Haven’s sidewalk contractor, Elm City Materials Inc. of Spring Street, puts the finishing touches on the boardwalk replacement behind Savin Rock on May 13 by leveling a fresh surface of asphalt on the 250-foot section of the shoreline walkway.

The project, financed with a state Local Capital Improvement Program grant, also includes repairing and replacing other parts of the 1 ½-mile boardwalk and removing trip hazards by a shaving process to meet guidelines under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

(City Photo/Michael P. Walsh)

New sidewalks on boardwalk

WEST HAVEN, May 13, 2020 — (Pictured): An excavation crew from the city’s sidewalk contractor, Elm City Materials Inc. of Spring Street, replaces a 250-foot section of the shoreline boardwalk behind Savin Rock on May 11.

The work, financed with a state Local Capital Improvement Program grant, paved the way for a new surface of asphalt for the bustling stretch of walkway, which had been a trip hazard.

The contractor also repaired 4-by-4-foot sections of the concrete boardwalk near The John Barone Bocce Court and the Savin Rock Conference Center on May 7.

Public Works Commissioner Tom J. McCarthy said the city is taking advantage of the shuttered walkway to do the work. The popular walking trail has been closed until further notice due to the coronavirus pandemic and social distancing restrictions.

The project, supervised by city sidewalk inspector Ernie Chiarelli, also includes repairing and replacing other parts of the 1 ½-mile boardwalk, which goes from Bradley Point to Sandy Point, and removing trip hazards by a shaving process to meet guidelines under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

(City Photo/Michael P. Walsh)

An Elm City Materials crew repairs 4-by-4-foot sections of the concrete boardwalk near The John Barone Bocce Court on May 7. (City Photo/Michael P. Walsh)

Sections of the concrete boardwalk near the Savin Rock Conference Center are excavated on May 7. (City Photo/Michael P. Walsh)

Applications available for Summer Youth Employment Program

WEST HAVEN, May 13, 2020 — Applications for the Summer Youth Employment Program are available.

Download an Application.

The four-week summer program, which is awaiting federal funding, is aimed at funding positions for low-income residents ages 14-21.

Applications with all required documents are due by 5 p.m. June 5 to coordinator Jim Eagan, Summer Youth Employment Program, Department of Human Resources, 355 Main St., West Haven, CT 06516. Applications can also be inserted into the drop box at the Main Street entrance of City Hall.

Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Students must also include copies of information, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card, as well as documentation of household income. Students who receive free lunch must provide proof as well.

Family income is based on the number of people per household and is required to be within 185 percent of state poverty income levels.

CDA gets $442K grant to aid coronavirus response

WEST HAVEN, April 30, 2020 — The West Haven Community Development Administration has received $442,726 in Community Development Block Grant funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for preventing, preparing for or responding to COVID-19, CDA Manager Mark J. Bisaccia announced.

Using the federal money, CDA will prioritize the needs of low-to-moderate-income residents and the development of partnerships between all levels of government and the private for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Bisaccia said.

Those who qualify for CDBG-CV grants must coordinate with state and local health authorities before undertaking activities to support local response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The emergency grants are subject to oversight, reporting and requirements, for which each grantee must prevent the duplication of benefits, Bisaccia said.

CDA is in the process of sending out grant applications to its social services and governmental agencies. For an application, contact Bisaccia at markb@westhaven-ct.gov or 203-937-3550.

Applications will be reviewed by the West Haven CDBG Citizen Participation Committee for funding recommendations.

Applications are due May 22 to the City of West Haven, Community Development Administration, 355 Main St., West Haven, CT 06516. Applications can also be inserted into the drop box at the Main Street entrance of City Hall.

West Haven participates in Low Interest Rate Program

WEST HAVEN, April 30, 2020 — The City Council on April 22 approved a motion allowing the city to participate in the Low Interest Rate Program authorized by Gov. Ned Lamont’s executive order in response to the coronavirus pandemic, Mayor Nancy R. Rossi announced.

The council’s endorsement of the proposal amid a special meeting paved the way for the low-interest program to aid city taxpayers affected by COVID-19.

According to Section 6 of Executive Order 7S, the program mandates that delinquent taxes remaining due and payable from April 1 are subject to a reduced interest rate of 3% per year for 90 days from April 1.

New taxes due July 1 will have a 30-day grace period and in the event they are paid late will also qualify for a reduced interest rate for 90 days.

Memorial Day parade canceled, Vets Walk of Honor dedication postponed

WEST HAVEN, April 29, 2020 — Due to the coronavirus pandemic and social distancing restrictions, the city and the West Haven Veterans Council have canceled the Memorial Day parade and postponed the Veterans Walk of Honor dedication, Mayor Nancy R. Rossi and council President Dave Ricci announced.

Despite the parade’s cancellation, Ricci said this year’s grand marshals, World War II veteran Frank Corso and Korean War vet Salvatore Gullo, will lead next year’s procession of veterans, dignitaries and bands along Campbell Avenue.

Corso served in the Army Air Forces in 1942-45, and Gullo served in the Navy in 1948-52.

The dedication, which memorializes veterans on the brick Walk of Honor in Bradley Point Park, has been rescheduled for Nov. 11 to coincide with the annual Veterans Day ceremony, Rossi said.

In November 2006, the Veterans Council began the first of 13 campaigns selling bricks to commemorate vets on the 100-yard Walk of Honor between the William A. Soderman and Vietnam Veterans memorials.

The bricks, which cost $75, have charcoal lettering for personalized messages.

More than 2,700 bricks have been installed so far, including 51 for the 12th phase, which was dedicated May 25, 2019.

Watch the mayor’s video message on West Haven’s official YouTube Channel.

The revitalization of the 7.6-acre Hubbard Nature and Education Center on Hubbard Road in West Shore is underway, thanks to city leaders and corporate sponsors. (City Photo/Barry Lee Cohen)

Hubbard Nature Center revitalization underway

WEST HAVEN, April 29, 2020 — After months of planning and review with city officials, neighbors, corporate sponsors and the Hubbard Family Association leadership, the revitalization of the Hubbard Nature and Education Center is underway, Mayor Nancy R. Rossi announced.

Under the guidance of Councilman Barry Lee Cohen, R-10, the initiative was approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission on March 2 and is being spearheaded by Steven Johnstone, the owner of Hubbard Farm’s Wood and Snow LLC of Hubbard Road, who is also the project’s lead sponsor.

Jose Amaya, the owner of Above the Ground Tree Care LLC of Westfield Street, is the co-sponsor and a licensed arborist. Parks and Recreation Director Mark E. Paine Jr. and City Council Chairman Ronald M. Quagliani, D-at large, were also engaged in moving the project forward.

“I am thrilled this much-needed revitalization is starting,” Rossi said. “The Hubbard Nature Center is such a beautiful area for West Haven residents to use for a short hike, a picnic or to just enjoy being outdoors.

“We are grateful to the Hubbards for their commitment to one of West Haven’s most scenic nature preserves. Thank you also to Barry Cohen for his efforts in moving this wonderful project forward.”

During the major renovation, the West Shore park will remain closed to ensure the safety of residents and workers.

The work is being done under the supervision of Public Works Commissioner Tom J. McCarthy and Tree Warden Leo Kelly.

All labor and materials to reestablish the front trails, clear brush and debris, replace fencing and beautify the main entrance are being provided by the sponsors at no cost to the city. In addition, the Hubbard Family Association is donating a new sign to replace the existing, weathered one.

Cohen, who represents the district that includes the Hubbard Road nature center, said the sponsors are taking special precautions to enforce social distancing and proper hygienic practices as the project progresses.

Johnstone, who is also the vice president of the Hubbard Family Association, said, “I told Mayor Rossi that my grandparents and great-grandparents would be ashamed of me if I didn’t take on this project given that I’ve been fortunate to build up the tools and the resources over the years to reestablish the integrity of the park.”

Cohen added: “When Steve and Allie Johnstone invited me to their house last January to discuss their idea and seek assistance, I was and remain absolutely thrilled to assist as the park has been an ongoing concern of the 10th District for quite some time. The commitment made by the Hubbard Family and the corporate sponsors is a testament to their love for West Haven.

“It’s my hope that this park revitalization might serve as a template to foster future private-public partnerships to maintain other recreational areas throughout our wonderful city.”

About one-third of the 7.6-acre park, nestled between Jones Hill and Benham Hill roads, is being revitalized this year. Pending any potential delays due to the coronavirus pandemic, the park is expected to reopen this fall.

A cleanup is being planned for the following spring, when organizers will determine the next steps in moving forward on the remaining acreage while ensuring the preexisting renovations are strictly maintained, Cohen said.

“The Hubbards have lived in West Haven for 200 years,” Johnstone said. “There is still a lot of pride left in the tank. I know it’s not the skating pond like many fellow Westies remember, but I think a lot of people are going to be quite surprised and impressed when the park reopens later this year.”

For more information, contact Cohen at bcohen@westhaven-ct.gov or 203-645-2913.

Scholarship offered in memory of third grade teacher at Savin Rock

WEST HAVEN, April 29, 2020 — The West Haven Breast Cancer Awareness Committee is accepting applications for a scholarship fund it founded in memory of a third grade Savin Rock Community School teacher who died of breast cancer.

The 18th annual Susan A. Ruickoldt Scholarship Fund will award $2,000 to a female high school senior from West Haven who plans to continue her education.

Candidates must submit an application form, a 250-word essay on achievements and goals, and a 250-word essay on the importance of breast cancer screening and education.

Applicants must also submit a letter of acceptance from a postsecondary school and a letter of intent to attend the school.

Download an Application.

Applications are also available by calling the personnel office at 203-937-3558.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. May 27 to the City of West Haven, Department of Personnel, 355 Main St., West Haven, CT 06516. Applications can also be inserted into the drop box at the Main Street entrance of City Hall.