Long Wharf Waterfront Redevelopment Includes Beach, Redesigned Food Truck Paradise, Playground: Mayor

NEW HAVEN, CT — The Long Wharf Waterfront will be redeveloped, "completely transformed," Mayor Justin Elicker said, "Thanks to a $12.1 million state grant."

New and improved features will include a redesigned Food Truck Paradise, including a picnic area and a "huge" tent-like pavilion to sit and eat. A new urban beach, what Elicker said would be "Connecticut’s best playground with environmental play area for running and climbing animal-themed obstacles, and a splashpad. There will be basketball and pickleball courts, a promenade for walking, running and biking, described as a "wide, mixed use path flanked by benches and lighting along the entire waterfront."

"Part of the Shoreline Greenway Trail, the promenade will connect all of the amenities while providing ample space for an energetic run or a relaxing stroll," Elicker said.

The redone area will also include space for a restaurant and snack shack, "and so much more," the mayor said.

Construction is set to begin in 2026 and continue through 2027.

A little Long Wharf history, as described in the City's plan:

"Initially, Long Wharf was the center of New Haven's maritime economy. Built by William Lanson in the early 1800s, Long Wharf Pier stretched almost a mile into Downtown. With the reclamation of land in the 1950s to build I-95, Long Wharf became the City's doorstep onto its natural harbor.

Now in the 2020s, it is time to reclaim our connection with the water and create a truly exciting space at the edge of our harbor. Long Wharf Waterfront will create spaces for residents and their families to enjoy great food, get exercise, learn to sail, connect with our history, and play in the sun."

Learn all about the Long Wharf Waterfront redevelopment project here.