Wilton’s Economic Development Commission (EDC) is taking a fresh look at the concept of creating an amphitheater or stage at Schenck’s Island.
Commissioner Marty Avallone raised the topic at the EDC’s meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 17. He briefed the commissioners on a study completed several years ago by the Schenck’s Island/Merwin Meadows Committee, which was tasked by the Town with identifying improvements and amenities in the two areas. The committee’s recommendations, approved by the Board of Selectmen in early 2020, included an amphitheater as a feature for Schenck’s Island.
Avallone noted that some of the study recommendations have since been implemented, but the amphitheater concept never moved forward, despite being recommended as a desirable venue for community events, performances, and other gatherings.
Avallone urged the commission to consider whether the concept should be resurrected.
“It makes sense from both an economic development standpoint and a community development standpoint — to execute on a plan that was previously approved,” Avallone said.
EDC Chair Joe Favarolo agreed.
“This certainly fits our [EDC’s] mission,” Favarolo said, noting that the idea “fits right in” with the EDC’s focus on quality of life for residents and support for local businesses.
Avallone emphasized that getting the concept off the ground would require careful planning, funding and coordination — and would not be a quick or simple undertaking.
“It’s not a small project,” he said, “but it would be a great outdoor spot.”
Commissioners discussed the need to identify an individual or organization — such as the Wilton Library or Parks and Recreation Department — who would take the lead on managing and scheduling events if the facility were to come to fruition.
The EDC’s interest in the amphitheater comes just one week after the Parks & Recreation Commission advanced the idea of Schenck’s Island as a potential site for a dog park — something the SIMM Committee considered but did not recommend for either Schenck’s Island or Merwin Meadows.
Avallone plans to follow up with Town officials, Library officials and others to explore the feasibility of moving forward, and will report back to the EDC.
The EDC’s next meeting is Wednesday, Jan. 21.
Is Schenk’s Island a nature preserve?
What environmental impacts would an amptheatre have? Lights? NOISE??
What about the animal life that’s of the mammalian 2-legged species?
The Norwalk River babbles and rushes through the island in a bowl, surrounded by properties on hills above the island.
What about disruption to the peace and quiet for neighboring residential properties?
The Levitt in Westport is on a piece of land isolated from residences. Schenk’s is a beautiful, peaceful, natural jewel. Let’s not tarnish it.