Page 22 - Wallingford Magazine Issue 54 Late Spring 2025

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Investing In Downtown Wallingford
esting In
Downtown is such a big part of what makes Wallingford should always feel safe when
shine among its peers. From its classic New England they exit their vehicle. Better
atmosphere and architecture, to the diverse array of lighting will help make that
shops, eateries and organizations, and the amazing possible throughout all of Wall-
community events that take place here, Wallingford ingford center. In that effort to
Town Center is the heartbeat of our community. make everyone feel secure and
welcome, we are also looking
That’s why it is so important that we maintain and in- into adding bike racks and oth-
vest in this local asset. Several ongoing programs in er ways to make the experience
Wallingford aim to accomplish just that. I would like better for all.
to highlight two: our façade program, and ongoing im-
provement of parking lots and their lighting. The facade program and parking
and lighting improvements are
For years, the town along with Wallingford Center Inc. two parts of the broader goal of Mayor Vincent Cervoni
has funded a façade program. This has largely focused town center staying safe, beau-
on the fronts of downtown buildings. Last summer, we tiful, and economically thriving.
began looking into opportunities to enhance the park- Accomplishing these objectives is critical. Downtown
ing lots in the lower Town Center area, along with ways is where much of our local culture comes together.
to partner with the property owners to make improve- It’s a major business district and community center,
ments to the rear of the buildings facing the public a point of pride for everyone who lives and works in
parking lots. We want downtown to look as beautiful Wallingford.
and inviting as possible, from all 360 degrees.
This is why improving public parking lots, fencing, and
their lighting is also important. Visitors to town center

22 WALLINGFORD MAGAZINE - LATE SPRING 2025