Scalettar Visits Hardware Store After Major Expansion

First Selectman Ellen Scalettar recently visited the Woodbridge True Value hardware store to learn about its major renovation and expansion.

Store manager Jeff Krasnow, who’s been at the hardware store for 17 years, gave Scalettar a tour and explained that the renovation and 1,200 foot expansion allowed the store to bring in over $100,000 worth of new merchandise.

This visit by the First Selectman was one of many designed to create a stronger bond between Town Hall and the Town’s business community and to strengthen economic development in Woodbridge. Additionally, the Town’s Economic Development Commission has been inviting new and expanding businesses to its monthly meetings in order to learn about those businesses and why they chose Woodbridge.

Scalettar noted the increase in light bulb selection to reflect the CFL and LED technology. Krasnow told her that the extra space means a larger inventory.

Owner Pat Funaro explained that the added space also allowed the store to redesign the aisles. “It used to be you’d walk in and the aisles were right in your face and it felt like a maze,” he said. Now the store’s entryway is more open and will hold seasonal merchandise. Right now that means vegetable seeds, bird feeders and grilling equipment.

Funaro’s family bought the business in 1995, and after several years of selling both auto parts and hardware at this location, the store was converted back to selling hardware exclusively, which it continues to do today.

Renovations are still underway and the store’s exterior will also get an update, including new signage. The interior will eventually also host a mural of historic Woodbridge photos and old photos of the store.

“This is a small-town store and we really want to encourage that community feel,” said Krasnow. “We have a lot of regulars and it’s kind of like walking into Cheers, where everybody knows your name.”

Woodbridge residents are encouraged to visit the store for the grand re-opening scheduled for the weekend of June 5. There will be give-aways, free hot dogs and fun, Krasnow promises.