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Traffic authority approves full Park Street closure for April Earth Day festival
Summary
The Norwalk Traffic Authority unanimously approved a full closure of Park Street between Lewis Street and East Wall Street for an Earth Day festival planned for April 26, with organizers and city staff describing traffic, parking and public-safety plans.
The Norwalk Traffic Authority on March 17 approved a full closure of Park Street between Lewis Street and East Wall Street to allow the Earth Day Festival (rebranded as a festival) on the Norwalk Green to proceed on Saturday, April 26.
Organizers said they expect 1,500 to 2,000 attendees and described a traffic-control plan that includes three police officers for road-closure points, multiple detour signs, designated exhibitor drop-off and several municipal and private parking options. “We are proposing to put in detour signs, in 3 locations or 4 locations,” said Brad Craighead, representing the Norwalk Green Association. “2 hours before the event starts…a police officer will be posted there to close traffic.”
The organizers said vendors and exhibitors will use two staging lots (behind First Congregational Church on Lewis Street and St. Paul’s parking) and that event participants can park on several nearby residential streets, Yankee Doodle municipal lot, and private lots at the Human Services Council and two funeral homes if those facilities are available. “We have a pretty comprehensive parking plan…which we will be putting on our website,” Craighead said.
Johan Lopez, a member of the organizing committee, said the festival team submitted a traffic and detour plan to the police chief and Transportation, Mobility and Parking (TMP) staff and has followed TMP guidance. He said Chief Walsh recommended three officers “for full coverage to to mitigate any traffic incidents.” Craighead said organizers are prepared to add an additional officer for crowd control at the chief’s suggestion.
Organizers and commissioners discussed alcohol service. Chief Walsh said vendors must comply with “the state of Connecticut catering liquor laws.” Craighead said the beer vendor last year used a state catering license and that organizers will work with the vendor (Blind Rhino) and city staff to concentrate any alcohol consumption into a limited area. “If we wanna limit the area where beer can be consumed or limit the hours…that’s fine with me. I’ll take your lead on that,” Craighead said. Commissioners suggested a fenced or barriered area if the Liquor Control Commission requires one.
Commissioners also asked about handicap access; Craighead said the recommended drop-off and exhibitor area in front of the gazebo (which has an ADA ramp and a nearby crosswalk) would be the best location for accessible parking and that signs will be posted. Tracy Craighead, who is assisting with vendor selection, said organizers still seek one or two additional food vendors and would follow up on suggested vendors.
The traffic authority called the vote. “All in favor? Aye. Aye. Motion carries,” Mayor Rilling said, approving the closure.
Organizers said they will finalize a detailed site plan and return follow-up materials to staff showing the exact location of the picnic/beer area, exhibitor drop-off, and accessible parking. The event permit and any required special-event or liquor permits remain subject to normal city review and any Liquor Control Commission requirements.
