New License Renewal Center To Open In West Haven

WEST HAVEN, CT — There is hope on the way for New Haven County residents who were dreading a trip to the DMV to get their licenses and ID card renewals. The Department of Motor Vehicles, along with State Rep. Dorinda Borer and officials from the City of West Haven and its Chamber of Commerce, announced Tuesday that the DMV and the city will open a Customer Service Center for license and ID card renewals next year. The effort is part of the DMV’s plan to replace the now-closed eight AAA offices in New Haven and Fairfield counties.

This will also be the DMV’s first office fully managed under municipal direction, according to a press release. In the past, offices were housed in municipal buildings, but were staffed by DMV. Under this model, the staffing will be independent of the DMV as done now at AAA Club Alliance offices in Hartford, Middlesex and New London counties. This new service center will be located in West Haven City Hall and will be run by the Chamber of Commerce.

An exact date for opening will be decided shortly, according to officials. The center, available to all customers in Connecticut, will provide services two days a week, with additional days possibly added later next year.

Borer, who represents West Haven, contacted the DMV early in August to explore a new municipal model for an office to serve West Haven and surrounding towns.

"Given West Haven's population, we are a perfect hub for state services," Borer said in a press release. "This is a terrific opportunity for not only our city, but the entire region as this program will alleviate congestion in the regional offices. The icing on the cake, however, is that the significant foot traffic to our downtown area will be a boost to local businesses and potentially new ones.

“Government agencies should always work together to achieve cost effective user friendly models that bring economic benefits to our cities and towns. I am encouraged by how well this is coming together to achieve those goals.”

DMV Commissioner Michael Bzdyra said, “We are excited about the start of bringing additional service centers for our customers. This is important to them, it’s important to the state, the city and the chamber. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

“This is a great opportunity for West Haven," Mayor Edward M. O'Brien said. "Not only will our residents have a more convenient option for DMV services, but this new facility will attract thousands of new visitors from around the state to the center of West Haven every year. Increasing the number of visitors to our center is a key aspect of attracting new development and will play a large role in revitalizing our downtown."

"The West Haven Chamber of Commerce looks forward to being part of this exciting venture," said Alan Olenick, the chamber’s executive director. "We look forward to providing a necessary service to West Haven and its surrounding towns. Attracting thousands of people to our city and its downtown area is part of our mission to help support West Haven business."

The DMV will also continue to pursue partnerships with additional municipalities and private companies with the aim to increase and improve customer service across the state.

Pictured: State Rep. Dorinda Borer, D-West Haven, speaks to reporters during a news conference Tuesday at City Hall announcing that the state Department of Motor Vehicles, the city and its Chamber of Commerce will open a customer service center for driver’s license and ID card renewals early next year in the lower level of City Hall. Joining Borer are, from left, Mayor-elect Nancy R. Rossi, state Reps. Charles J. Ferraro, R-West Haven, and Michael A. DiMassa, D-West Haven, Mayor Edward M. O’Brien, chamber Executive Director Alan R. Olenick and DMV Commissioner Michael Bzdyra. (City Photo/Michael P. Walsh)