New Sidewalks For Savin Rock Conference Center In West Haven

WEST HAVEN, CT — (From City Hall): Pictured from left, Mayor Nancy R. Rossi, Public Works Commissioner Tom McCarthy and Rossi’s executive assistant, Lou Esposito, look on as a crew from the city’s sidewalk contractor, Elm City Materials Inc. of Spring Street, finishes the first pour of concrete for replacing a stretch of sidewalk in front of the Savin Rock Conference Center at 6 Rock St. on Friday.

The work, which will include a new crosswalk of stamped concrete that resembles red brick pavers, is being financed with a state Local Capital Improvement Program grant and supervised by city sidewalk inspector Ernie Chiarelli.

McCarthy said the high-traffic area had been in disrepair and was a public safety liability, requiring the new sidewalks. The area is a major gateway to the beach and walkway for pedestrians, he said.

Rossi said she is committed to renovating the Savin Rock Conference Center, saying that due to years of deferred maintenance, the building needs a new roof and other upgrades. She is working with the city’s General Assembly delegation to secure a $2.1 million state grant for the improvements.

The mayor’s vision for the waterfront center includes removing the interior walls to make one large banquet facility and adding a kitchen to make the facility more marketable.

“The Savin Rock Conference Center can bring people and business to West Haven if it is renovated and managed properly,” Rossi said. “It will also bring a reliable, long-term revenue stream to the city, which given our financial condition is an important part of necessary structural change.”