Ridgefield Economic Development Commission Reviews Historic District Proposal

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Ridgefield Economic Development Commission on Aug. 4 reviewed a proposal from the town’s Historic District Commission to create an East Ridge Historic District and advanced planning for several upcoming business events.

Historic District Commission member Dan O’Brien presented a Local Historic District Study Report for East Ridge Avenue. If adopted, it would become Ridgefield’s third historic district, requiring architectural styles and materials to match the neighborhood’s character while still allowing development. Two-thirds of the 19 property owners would need to approve the measure before it could go to a town meeting for a vote. O’Brien said historic district status typically helps preserve property values.

The ECDC will review the report and expects to vote on it at its next regular meeting.

In other business, commissioners discussed preparations for Ridgefield Connect, a networking event to be held in partnership with the Golf Performance Center, and Tiger Shark Tank 4, which has drawn multiple prospective presenters. Sponsorships for the pitch competition are being sought.

The commission also reported website updates, including a downtown parking map and event details, and discussed expanding outreach through social media. Consideration of tax incentives, grants and the annual report was postponed to a later meeting.