Waveny Park Committee explores parking upgrades and river enhancements

The Parks and Recreation Committee of New Canaan, Connecticut, convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss the Kiwanis Master Plan, focusing on various enhancements to local parks and recreational facilities. The meeting addressed several key agenda items, emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure and community engagement.

The first topic of discussion centered on the potential installation of seasonal vending machines at local pools. Committee members expressed the importance of ensuring that the vending machine company would be amenable to the seasonal nature of the service, indicating a willingness to explore this option further.

Next, the committee turned its attention to parking concerns at Waveny Park. Members highlighted the necessity for a well-considered parking schema, particularly regarding pickup and drop-off areas. Previous meetings had indicated that parking issues were a recurring concern, especially during busy events. The committee agreed that a deeper analysis with relevant stakeholders would be beneficial to address these challenges effectively.

The discussion then shifted to enhancing the river area within the park. Several members proposed adding benches and picnic tables to create a more inviting space for visitors. They acknowledged the potential of the river as a recreational feature and suggested collaboration with local beautification groups to improve the natural landscape. However, they also recognized the need for careful planning due to environmental considerations, including potential permit requirements for any modifications.

The committee also discussed enhancing the entrance to Kiwanis Park to create a more welcoming atmosphere. Suggestions included simple yet effective improvements that could make the entrance feel grander, similar to enhancements seen in other local parks.

Additionally, the committee addressed the community garden's future, confirming the need to reserve space for its development. There were also calls for improvements to the existing trail system, with suggestions to make certain areas more accessible and to consider extending the trails to incorporate the river area.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to enhancing local parks and recreational facilities through thoughtful planning and community involvement. The next steps will involve further discussions with stakeholders to explore the feasibility of the proposed enhancements and to ensure that the master plan aligns with community needs and environmental considerations.