Open Space, Parks & Rec & More

Written By Thomas Mitchell

PREVIOUS OPEN HOUSE RESULTS

On July 22nd and August 26, 2025, the Town hosted two Community Open Houses in Mystic and Pawcatuck for the 2026 Plan of Conservation & Development (POCD) update. The events featured four stations, each designed to inform the public and/or gather community feedback on a specific topic through an interactive activity. Stations included Project Information, Community Connections, Economic Development Sites, and Municipal Investment Priorities. Results summary:

PAWCATUCK

Station 1 - Project Information

  • Introduced attendees to the POCD update process and its purpose.

  • Highlighted completed steps, including community survey data collection.

  • Provided access to the project website for further information.

Station 2 - Community Connections

  • Residents expressed concerns about pedestrian and bicyclist safety.

  • Identified gaps in the sidewalk network, particularly on Liberty Street and South Broad Street.

  • Highlighted safety concerns related to speeding and traffic crossings.

  • Residents desire better walkability to community facilities and connections to Westerly.

Station 3 - Economic Development Sites

  • Residents showed interest in revitalizing Downtown Pawcatuck and improving waterfront access.

  • Preferred focus areas for development include Downtown Pawcatuck and Exit 92.

  • Mixed-use developments were the most favored, with 10 mentions.

  • Additional comments included the need for public access to trails and a dog park.

Station 4 - Municipal Investment Priorities

  • Top three investment priorities: Pedestrian & Bicycle Improvements (12 votes), Open Space & Recreation (11 votes), and Road Improvements & Traffic Calming (10 votes).

  • Other priorities included Neighborhood Investments & Social Services (7 votes) and Schools (6 votes).

MYSTIC

Station 1 - Project Information

  • Introduced attendees to the POCD update process and its purpose.

  • Highlighted completed steps, including community survey data collection.

  • Provided access to the project website for further information.

Station 2 - Community Connections/Transportation

  • Residents supported improving pedestrian and bicyclist options.

  • Identified traffic congestion on Route 27 and safety issues on Route 1.

  • Suggested improvements for sidewalks and crosswalks throughout Mystic.

Station 3 - Economic Development Sites

  • Residents prioritized arts, culture, and sustainability for economic development.

  • Mixed-use developments were favored, with 7 mentions for Downtown Mystic.

  • Additional comments emphasized preserving historic buildings and improving waterfront access.

Station 4 - Municipal Investment Priorities

  • Top three priorities for Mystic: Pedestrian & Bicycle Improvements (16 votes), Road Improvements & Traffic Calming (12 votes), and Streetscape & Beautification (10 votes).

  • Other priorities included Open Space & Recreation (9 votes) and Neighborhood Investments & Social Services (9 votes).

Thomas Mitchell
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