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Focus on the Here and Now

Congratulations go to Old Saybrook’s first selectman, Carl Fortuna, Jr., and Economic Development Coordinator Susan Beckman in securing a State of Connecticut $200,000 Brownfield Grant as a first step in development of the Route 1 corridor extending from the Mystic Market location toward Ferry Point.

Eliminating the stigma of contaminated soil and other environmental factors will weigh positively on the interest of developers looking at potential properties. Not to be forgotten, however, are the large buildings on Route 1 that have gone so very long in an abandoned and undeveloped state. Some of the more glaring examples are Old Saybrook Bowling Lanes, Boaters World, and the old Tissa’s Market and Pizza Hut buildings. There are of course others, but these are grim and highly visible examples of serious economic needs that need to be managed immediately. Until the older and in-need examples previously mentioned are dealt with, the town will go on for years into the study of new priorities down the road while neglecting the buildings that are in need of a positive and vibrant change right now.

Businesses are not just going to come here—you have to go recruit them! The increased tax base, positive aesthetics, and new employment pluses will benefit the town of Old Saybrook. Economic planning and development for the future is fine, but there needs to be more of a focus on the here and now.

Pat Settembrino

Old Saybrook