New Project Aims To Reimagine Bedford Street In Stamford, Public Workshop Scheduled

STAMFORD, CT — A new project is aiming to reimagine a section of Bedford Street, and residents are invited to a public workshop meeting to learn more on Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. inside the Stamford Government Center.

Attendees will learn about the data the city has collected for the project, and see and comment on three proposed draft concept plans for the redesign of Bedford Street.

"This project reimagines one of our main downtown corridors and reflects my administration’s ongoing commitment to creating a more walkable, connected, and vibrant city," Mayor Caroline Simmons said in an emailed statement to Patch. "I’m looking forward to hearing what residents want to see as we shape the future of Bedford Street, especially as we focus on improving pedestrian safety and accessibility."

The project webpage notes the block of Bedford Street between Broad Street and Forrest Street "functions as Stamford’s 'Main Street' with a rich history of retail, restaurant and bar activity, and residential usage."

Bedford Street is home to several notable events throughout the year, such as Arts and Crafts on Bedford, Brews on Bedford, Bark in the Park, and others.

The project "seeks to create a vision for the redevelopment of the public realm" on Bedford Street between Broad Street and Forest Street.

According to the city, the future condition on Bedford Street will be short, medium, and long term in nature and will address the following focus areas:

• Public space activation
• Physical design and amenity enhancements
• Short-term and delivery parking and retail supportive parking options
• Bicycle parking
• Making outdoor dining permanent
• Street safety

The cost for the project is $50,000 in city funds, plus $25,000 funded by Stamford Downtown, the project webpage says.