New West Main Street Picnic Area Created Just in Time for Summer
By Julie Perine on May 20, 2022
There's a new downtown picnic area, thanks to a collaboration between the City of Bridgeport and a local business owner.Just across from Benedum Civic Center, bordering the West Main Street municipal parking lot, are three new heavy-duty black iron picnic tables for anyone to enjoy.
City Development Director Andrea Kerr explained how the project came to be.
"Jeffrey Chalfant, the owner of East of Chicago Pizza, approached us and asked if the city would mind if he put a little concrete sidewalk from his building to the municipal parking lot," she said.
Kerr said the city's ultimate idea was to pour concrete on the small grassy area and create seating, not just for East of Chicago Pizza, but for other area restaurants or simply as a picnic spot for locals and travelers.
It was a collaborative effort, she said.
"East of Chicago Pizza paid for the concrete, city employees did the work and the city purchased the picnic tables," she said.
The tables were ordered in March and shipment was delayed multiple times, Kerr said.
"So, we were really glad to get them. It's perfect timing for Memorial Day, the pool opening, and Summer Kickoff events," she said.
Bridgeport Pool opens May 28 with free Splash Day. Read more HERE.
The Associated Businesses of Bridgeport Summer Kickoff and Food Truck Festival is Saturday, June 4. Read about that HERE.
The GameChanger Tailgate at The Bridge Sports Complex is Friday, June 3. Read about that event HERE.
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