State Removes Whimsical 'Wish Booth' From Downtown Chester

CHESTER, CT — A charming feature of small-town life may be no more. The state has removed a whishing booth that once stood on Main Street in downtown Chester, according to WTNH News-8.

Residents described it as part of a "magical" scene and said the booth was filled with good memories. The installation resembled a phone booth where visitors were invited to come inside and make a wish.

The state owns the bridge where the wish booth stood, and the artists who erected the booth didn't pull a permit. However, the booth's creators said they are determined to bring it back, according to WTNH News-8.

The Town of Chester released a statement on the wish booth controversy.

"Currently, a new location is being scouted by Chris Owen and Caryn Paradis," the town wrote. Once the state discovered the location of the wish booth, the town was directed to "immediately remove all banners, stars and personal items from state property. It is unfortunate that this has happened, but there are rules in place that need to be followed. In the future, for everyone's safety, well being and compliance, please contact Jenny to ensure that you have the proper authorizations and approvals as part of any creative planning process."

Paradis told FOX 61 that they didn't know they needed a permit to put up the booth. She said that the "the coolest thing" has been the response from the people in town and that "there's been this outpouring of support saying we want this to be a permanent installation."

Paradis said they intend to keep the booth somewhere in Chester.