Possible Pawcatuck Public Park?

Circus Lot Acquisition Release

Now that a title search and an environmental well-head test that found no contaminants have successfully been completed, the Economic Development Commission (EDC) is one step closer to recommending that the Town of Stonington purchase the “Circus Lot,” a 5.6-acre riverfront property that may one day become a public park and enhance the quality of life for the Village of Pawcatuck.

The 5.6-acre parcel of land is located at the terminus of Noyes Avenue, along the Pawcatuck River, and is believed to have once housed traveling circuses when they came to town many years ago.  

Dave Hammond, EDC’s chairman, called the Circus Lot “an underutilized asset for this neighborhood,” adding, “The property offers the added attraction of [physically] linking up with the envisioned Pawcatuck River Greenway and Riverwalk, with scenic trails and a possible kayak launch.”   

The Circus Lot is currently owned by the town of Westerly, which acquired the land when it took over the Pawcatuck public water system. But Hammond said, within the deed, the Town of Stonington retained the rights to construct and operate a park at this property in the future.

Under town ownership and direction, and with the guidance of a community-endorsed master plan, Hammond said the Circus Lot might also enable legal public access, and perhaps serve as a connection between Noyes Avenue and the Cogswell Street neighborhoods. A portion of the property could also be sold by the Town to enable development on adjoining private properties, Hammond said.

According to Hammond, the next steps for EDC might include determining if a Phase 2 environmental assessment is necessary; collaborate with landscape architects to develop a “conceptual drawing” of a public use park; and then, seek public input.

Total costs for the project include: $35,000 for the lot acquisition; approximately $18,000 for site stabilization; and $7,500 for legal and closing fees. 

Finally, Hammond said it is critically important for the Village of Pawcatuck to see the vision of a public waterfront amenity, like the Circus Lot, and support the effort in purchasing it.