Downtown Improvement

[Tino3]

It's good to see the new establishments and effort downtown. It would be good to hear and see citizens focus on the good and the potential. Obviously, problems need to be addressed but there is also a lot of good in Meriden.

[whalers44]

Good try, just drop a bomb on it and build something better than what we got. we are wasting too much time on downtown and not enough elsewhere. downtowns are out....when you can go to malls and stay out of the elements, stay cool in the heat season, and stay warm in the winters. Is Middletown bursting at the seams with there downtown??? and they have route 66 going right thru there plus a movie theater....what do we have??We can utilize the space for something else....such as an over 55 complex or maybe put the new high schools there if we build one....but downtowns are out....

[eds]

Ironic the position whalers44 takes and yet his screen name is whalers. Remember the Whalers? Victims of a lack of interest in downtown Hartford I recall. Not enough people attending games due to crime, I believe. Also it was because it was not enough room for expansion to get more people to attend games and provide better accommodations that other teams had. Again, the waning downtown Hartford caused the demise of the Whalers, politics aside. No new stadium, no interest in the games, and no accommodations made by Rowland to make it easy to stay. And downtown Hartford is where today? Not even the Patriots came to stay.

Whalers eventually left and went to become the Carolina Hurricanes when the owner gave the ultimatum that if not enough tickets were sold, the team would move. And they did.

[Tino3]

Whaler has a good idea for some 55 and over downtown. With gas prices so high people will probably stay closer to home. Good food, arts and specialty shops will draw people. Oh, and better parking.

[Common Sense]

I would like to see more positive comments about Meriden in general. Sometimes I think that Meriden's biggest problem is people who live here that can't seem to find anything positive to say about their home town. No matter where one lives there is always going to be problems, but we also need to look at the good side as well. Kudos to Tino3 for trying.

[whalers44]

eds, the whalers sold over the amount of tickets put karmanos had his mind set that he was taking the whalers to nc even before he finalized the deal. Also, bettman the commissioner wanted them out of hartford because of new york and boston....it had nothing to do with downtown hartford....look what the concerts bring in, uconn basketball....hartford show night life at times, what does meriden have, NOTHING!!!!

[eds]

eds, the whalers sold over the amount of tickets put karmanos had his mind set that he was taking the whalers to nc even before he finalized the deal. Also, bettman the commissioner wanted them out of hartford because of new york and boston....it had nothing to do with downtown hartford....look what the concerts bring in, uconn basketball....hartford show night life at times, what does meriden have, NOTHING!!!!

The owner having his mind set is hearsay. If you go by hearsay, one would believe that Roland was holding out more for the Patriots to come to Hartford.

From what I heard and understand from someone who has lived in Hartford all their lives, it's dead and nothing like it was.

You mention several times that you want to bulldoze downtown, and now you lament over the fact that Meriden has nothing downtown like Hartford. So if we bulldoze it what would be left? How would that make it better than it is now? Do you propose something else in its place?

[S_Meriden60]

I think to improve downtown we need to have more cops walking the beat and talking to local residents. I remember we had them many years ago when I was a kid. Driving around town in a cruiser doesn't keep police in touch with what is happening. It would save gas too.

[whalers44]

eds, i propose that they bulldoze downtown and turn it into a 55 and over community which this city needs in the worst way. Also, if we need to build a high school, what a better place than down there. The building are old and businesses and people will not walk down there no matter how safe they say it is. And it is not hearsay about what karmanos had in mind. I know that for a fact from someone who was close to the organization. and don't give me the fact that downtown hartford is dying. do you know that the apartments down there are selling like hot cakes at a high price. They are building them all over downtown....not just in one or two places. Also, the civic center has many floors with new apartments that are going fast. So, that is what Meriden needs to do...not putting businesses there.

[eds]

eds, i propose that they bulldoze downtown and turn it into a 55 and over community which this city needs in the worst way. Also, if we need to build a high school, what a better place than down there. The building are old and businesses and people will not walk down there no matter how safe they say it is. And it is not hearsay about what karmanos had in mind. I know that for a fact from someone who was close to the organization. and don't give me the fact that downtown hartford is dying. do you know that the apartments down there are selling like hot cakes at a high price. They are building them all over downtown....not just in one or two places. Also, the civic center has many floors with new apartments that are going fast. So, that is what Meriden needs to do...not putting businesses there.

Very familiar with Hartford. I spend 50-60 hours a week there. More time than I spend here in Meriden probably.

You may know what karmanos was thinking, but that is not public knowledge.

Downtown hartford may be putting up nice residential towers but overall it is not what it used to be. A 55 and over community? How would that benefit anyone? Are you retired? Are you a senior? I suspect the answer to both is no.

A school in downtown? Downtown is a big area for just a school or a residential community. We need an overall strategic direction and plan. Not just one or two things. Where is your overall comprehensive plan for downtown revitalization? I agree something needs to be done. But what will be done that is both long term and beneficial to a majority of citizens not just those over age 55 or those with high school age children.

[whalers44]

Eds, what is the problem in Meriden....first of all, we are not attracting any businesses to the city....secondly, we are building all these new homes all over the city and what is happening...we are filling them up with young people who have kids or will have kids. So, what happens, lets say that each new house has 2 kids. That cost us money to send them to the school system and the amount of property taxes we get from that household more than likely puts us in the negative position for that house. But, if you build a 55 and over community, you get a home that has no kids and the collection for taxes is a huge plus. We are struggling with our taxes now so what is going to happen next year and the next....you got it, taxes are going to go way up and services will be cut further.

[eds]

Eds, what is the problem in Meriden....first of all, we are not attracting any businesses to the city....secondly, we are building all these new homes all over the city and what is happening...we are filling them up with young people who have kids or will have kids. So, what happens, lets say that each new house has 2 kids. That cost us money to send them to the school system and the amount of property taxes we get from that household more than likely puts us in the negative position for that house. But, if you build a 55 and over community, you get a home that has no kids and the collection for taxes is a huge plus. We are struggling with our taxes now so what is going to happen next year and the next....you got it, taxes are going to go way up and services will be cut further.
Or what might happen is the residential property value will continue to rise as more new homes are built, the tax base will then rise, and Meriden will become an affluent town just like every other town has done starting from New York City, through Fairfield County and finally moving toward Boston. This entire corridor is becoming more affluent.

[whalers44]

EDS, you like to pipe dream....face the facts the more homes with kids is going to hurt Meriden. New schools will have to be built, more teachers, and the cost education will rise further and further where the tax base will be out of sight. What, we are going to pay the price next year for the tax freeze this year. If our leaders were smart, they would start making adjustments now and not wait till next year.

[Charles E. Peevyhouse]

Or what might happen is the residential property value will continue to rise as more new homes are built, the tax base will then rise, and Meriden will become an affluent town just like every other town has done starting from New York City, through Fairfield County and finally moving toward Boston. This entire corridor is becoming more affluent.

Did not the Hartford Courant just report that Connecticut is suffering from low population growth. So where is all this affluence coming from.

[Charles E. Peevyhouse]

It should come as no surprise to anyone why self proclaimed Real Estate Developer, Ross Gulino would support Meriden City Councilor and fellow democratic town committee member, David Salafia in his 2nd attempt to start a restaurant in downtown Meriden. After all let's take a look at how Gulino has benefited since his friend Salafia has been in office. Salafia voted to have the City give Gulino the Castle Craig Players building for $50,000. A building that was arguably worth over $200,000 at the time. Salafia put forward Gulino's proposal to have the City provide low interest facade loans to downtown property owners. Gulino happens to own a cluster of buildings in downtown Meriden. Salafia voted to demolish the old bowling alley building on Grove Street to allow for more parking. The old bowling alley happens to be almost across the street from a building owned by Gulino. The City has designated a section of the parking garage on Grove Street to be used exclusively for Gulino and his properties Free of charge. Gulino on the other hand has provided his party with their downtown headquarters 3 out of the past 4 election cycles. Wouldn't it be nice if everyone benefited in the same ways that Ross Gulino has since his "Paison" and fellow party member David Salafia took office only a few short years

God, I love this corrupt little town. I hope I can get some inside connection. By the councilor dave, have you fixed the willow and plum issue, paved Allen Avenue, fixed the blight property on sorries court, these are all Area IV, the area you supposedly represent not downtown.

[alwaysright]

eds, i propose that they bulldoze downtown and turn it into a 55 and over community which this city needs in the worst way. Also, if we need to build a high school, what a better place than down there. The building are old and businesses and people will not walk down there no matter how safe they say it is. And it is not hearsay about what karmanos had in mind. I know that for a fact from someone who was close to the organization. and don't give me the fact that downtown hartford is dying. do you know that the apartments down there are selling like hot cakes at a high price. They are building them all over downtown....not just in one or two places. Also, the civic center has many floors with new apartments that are going fast. So, that is what Meriden needs to do...not putting businesses there.

downtown murdin will never even be the ghost town that hartford is at night- it will be worse!!!! Middletown's downtown was not ravaged by a nearby rat hole mall like we have (which, by the way, is getting more empty stores every day), but they DO have a college that supports it; and the arts district for our downtown is a joke. One frame shop and a little toy theatre do not make an arts district.One new pizza shop does not create a restaurant row. That same row has stalled in the obvoiusly over ambitous rooftop dream and banquet hall. Take a good hard look at the hole in the wall of colony(next to the pizza shop) soon to be falling completely down- what has the city done so far to ensure that developer actually can fix the place? Nothing- they are too busy getting the corination ceremony ready for the new ceremonial mayor. Oh yeah- that will be held in the semi open cultural center which, instead of culture, has provided a rental place for baby showers. Some culture.

[Happy]

That's easy for somebody to say who doesn't invest in downtown. There are properties for sale downtown. Put your money where your mouth is. It's amazing that people don't appreciate the effort that has been going on downtown. To invest there (or any inner city) is a big risk. Guilino is at least trying--and if he ever makes money there it will be after years and lots of money invested. Salafia is also trying to keep his head above water and improve downtown. It's amazing how negative some of these comments are. Instead of criticizing, get out and do something!!!!

[whalers44]

We are doing something, we don't patronize the downtown area!!!!!

[collie]

I agree with Charles P. I could not believe the gall of Benigni to have as his final guest on the Mayor's Corner, Ross G. urging people to call their city councilors so that the city will build a parking lot next to his and Salafia's new restaurant. Ross G. said something like: "We only need to flip one more councilor." I found that offensive. What is the City, a prostitute to be flipped on her back so downtown business owners can get over once again?

Harsh words Happy will not like, but too bad. Glad I'm not the only one who sees that Ross G. has benefitted quite a bit, doesn't appear to be altruisitic in his motives. The tide started to turn when the ethics commission ruled Salafia could not vote or participate in the Colony Street parking lot matter. And the building facade program could not dip into CDBG funds allocated for the poor, so that died, too, apparently.

Let's hope the parking lot goes the same way.

[prince]

It should come as no surprise to anyone why self proclaimed Real Estate Developer, Ross Gulino would support Meriden City Councilor and fellow democratic town committee member, David Salafia in his 2nd attempt to start a restaurant in downtown Meriden. After all let's take a look at how Gulino has benefited since his friend Salafia has been in office. Salafia voted to have the City give Gulino the Castle Craig Players building for $50,000. A building that was arguably worth over $200,000 at the time. Salafia put forward Gulino's proposal to have the City provide low interest facade loans to downtown property owners. Gulino happens to own a cluster of buildings in downtown Meriden. Salafia voted to demolish the old bowling alley building on Grove Street to allow for more parking. The old bowling alley happens to be almost across the street from a building owned by Gulino. The City has designated a section of the parking garage on Grove Street to be used exclusively for Gulino and his properties Free of charge. Gulino on the other hand has provided his party with their downtown headquarters 3 out of the past 4 election cycles. Wouldn't it be nice if everyone benefited in the same ways that Ross Gulino has since his "Paison" and fellow party member David Salafia took office only a few short years

God, I love this corrupt little town. I hope I can get some inside connection. By the councilor dave, have you fixed the willow and plum issue, paved Allen Avenue, fixed the blight property on sorries court, these are all Area IV, the area you supposedly represent not downtown.
I am very surprised at you. As a lawyer you should be more careful about the misinformation you spew. Your body language today gave you away. When you have to hide behind a fake identity it speaks volumes! Be a man not a weasel. I dare you to confront Gulino or Salafia about any of your false claims man to man. You and your friend should move on and stop holding on to the past. YOU LOST DEAL WITH IT! Its too bad that so many of you on this forum are loosers in one way or another. If meriden is so bad just leave....

[jma]

Hey Prince, unless you have a hit song called "Little Red Corvette", I'm assuming your name is fake as well. Kind of the whole idea behing this forum, so why blast CEP? I don't know who he is, nor do I care. I agree with his take on the downtown issues. It reeks of dishonesty and favoritism--pretty much the standard operating procedure around here.

[JJGIII]

I am very surprised at you. As a lawyer you should be more careful about the misinformation you spew. Your body language today gave you away. When you have to hide behind a fake identity it speaks volumes! Be a man not a weasel. I dare you to confront Gulino or Salafia about any of your false claims man to man. You and your friend should move on and stop holding on to the past. YOU LOST DEAL WITH IT! Its too bad that so many of you on this forum are loosers in one way or another. If meriden is so bad just leave....

Prince:

You are obviously too smart for your own good. While I do know who Mr. Peevyhouse is, I can assure you he is not me. Unlike you, and I have stated this before, if I have something to say I will say it with my name attached to it and take ownership. While I agree with the statements made by the poster, they are exactly that his statements. I do not post in this forum because of individuals like you. Who are like shouters at rallies who would rather shouter the speaker down then listen. So have fun with the royalty checks from Purple Rain and buy a building downtown.

Respectfully
John J. Ghidini III

[RC12L4]

I am very surprised at you. As a lawyer you should be more careful about the misinformation you spew. Your body language today gave you away. When you have to hide behind a fake identity it speaks volumes! Be a man not a weasel. I dare you to confront Gulino or Salafia about any of your false claims man to man. You and your friend should move on and stop holding on to the past. YOU LOST DEAL WITH IT! Its too bad that so many of you on this forum are loosers in one way or another. If meriden is so bad just leave....

I feel compelled to reply to the "If Meriden is so bad just leave" comment. If that wasn't already happening we wouldn't need a downtown revitalization project would we? Careful what you wish for, you just might get it.

Also, I've never been called a looser before, should I be insulted?

Thanks, have a good day.

[Happy]

The Meriden that I see has lots of good people trying to do lots of good things. All cities large and small have gone through changes over the last 40 years or so. Although there are exceptions, people who live, work and invest in Meriden believe that it is has a solid foundation and that there is great potential. I am puzzled why some people only see the negative and focus on the past. This city has a great location in the state, nice diversity, hard-working people and recently, people who are willing to invest in downtown and other areas of the city. How sad to live in a world where you only see negative. Even with the national economy in such turmoil, Meriden is taking steps in a positive direction. I agree with the comments, if you believe that this is such a terrible place to live it would be beneficial to all if you decided to relocate. Better yet, how about getting involved in a positve way to make positive changes. Come on, life is to short to feel so negative. I appreciate different points of view, but can't we keep it civil?

[Charles E. Peevyhouse]

I am very surprised at you. As a lawyer you should be more careful about the misinformation you spew. Your body language today gave you away. When you have to hide behind a fake identity it speaks volumes! Be a man not a weasel. I dare you to confront Gulino or Salafia about any of your false claims man to man. You and your friend should move on and stop holding on to the past. YOU LOST DEAL WITH IT! Its too bad that so many of you on this forum are loosers in one way or another. If meriden is so bad just leave....


Nice try Prince, now that I feel even more confindent that you have no idea what you are talking about. Why don't you point out the mistatements that I have claimed to made. Seems like you like to read the posts and then post when someone hurts your feelings, :( thus giving me a pretty good idea of whom you are. So what was inaccurate Princey Boy? If all else fails you can simply hurl insults at all the posters again calling them losers. Your lack intellucutal prowess is truly stunning. Have a wonderful day Prince and I hope your succession to the throne proceeds without any hitches.

[alwaysright]

It wasn't prince- it was me. You political losers really are not worse off than the winners. small time politicos in a small town. Downtown is dying on the vine. get used to it. Now the rumors are flying that the hub needs a circus. why? the town council fills that bill quite nicely. and with the new people throwing their hats in the ring for mayor- we have a side show. and the freak tent is right next door at the mills.

[jma]

I give much more credit to someone who runs for office and loses, than somone who just sits back and complains! At least the "losers" tried to make a difference.

[Stephen T. Zerio]

I give much more credit to someone who runs for office and loses, than somone who just sits back and complains! At least the "losers" tried to make a difference.

JMA, not sure you've ever been one of my supporters, but on this opinion you and I agree. One of my favorite political quotes (from a Republican, no less!) that used to keep me on track was:

"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a
worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."

- Teddy Roosevelt

[UNiRAC]

It would be good to hear and see citizens focus on the good and the potential. .
Meridens PLAN after floods and 'Dah Hub'
Quote:
Originally Posted by catnap
I don't know what's the answer to downtown

In my mind the only thing that would 'save' downtown is something like ... a major draw - putting the police station and courthouse smack downtown was a huge mistake - people don't want to be there in the first place...either because it looks unattractive or dangerous or simply there is no easy parking,,,

You can't put in something like a store...and "hope" people will come - you have to put something there that people HAVE to come too - but not a courthouse ...a college, a major insurance company or something with tons of employees or students, something like that. How about an elementary school?..a private school. but that's not gonna happen...I've often wondered if downtown should just be moved...like to the rather bustling east side. I don't know what the answer is. [end quote-quote
I said [K.I.S.S ]
Good post and idealz CATnip,,,
#1 people like 'downtown as quaint , and prime real-estate needs Non-Essential Gov't relocated
#2 people like wide open spaces like the new HUB and Hubbard park [make a nice 'Parking lot' for a major draw like Veterans Coleseum<sp> in the 80's in New HAVEN] >>> Jonie Mitchell tune playing now.
#3 Sports,Arts, or a CIRCUS field [like 100 yrs ago]
just don't fool with Mother Nature and that flood zone

[catnap]

Meridens PLAN after floods and 'Dah Hub'
Quote:
Originally Posted by catnap
I don't know what's the answer to downtown

In my mind the only thing that would 'save' downtown is something like ... a major draw - putting the police station and courthouse smack downtown was a huge mistake - people don't want to be there in the first place...either because it looks unattractive or dangerous or simply there is no easy parking,,,

You can't put in something like a store...and "hope" people will come - you have to put something there that people HAVE to come too - but not a courthouse ...a college, a major insurance company or something with tons of employees or students, something like that. How about an elementary school?..a private school. but that's not gonna happen...I've often wondered if downtown should just be moved...like to the rather bustling east side. I don't know what the answer is. [end quote-quote
I said [K.I.S.S ]
Good post and idealz CATnip,,,
#1 people like 'downtown as quaint , and prime real-estate needs Non-Essential Gov't relocated
#2 people like wide open spaces like the new HUB and Hubbard park [make a nice 'Parking lot' for a major draw like Veterans Coleseum<sp> in the 80's in New HAVEN] >>> Jonie Mitchell tune playing now.
#3 Sports,Arts, or a CIRCUS field [like 100 yrs ago]

just don't fool with Mother Nature and that flood zone

A Community College in Meriden - and I mean way more then middlesex's satelite - I mean a whole Community college. I've been hearing rumors for years of Middlesex either moving to Meriden, or opening a second campus in Meriden. I've even hard talk of a 13th community college in the state...in Meriden.
with Meridens population a CC would be major coop us. We have a large blue-collar working class population with kids who need to go to college - and who are not rich - and possibly do not have transportatoin. What is the nearest CC to here...Middlesex..wayyyyy on the other side of MIddletown.:rolleyes:

A CC would be the perfect solution. and Yes I know - easier said then done.

[catnap]

A Community College in Meriden - and I mean way more then middlesex's satelite - I mean a whole Community college. I've been hearing rumors for years of Middlesex either moving to Meriden, or opening a second campus in Meriden. I've even hard talk of a 13th community college in the state...in Meriden.
with Meridens population a CC would be major coop us. We have a large blue-collar working class population with kids who need to go to college - and who are not rich - and possibly do not have transportatoin. What is the nearest CC to here...Middlesex..wayyyyy on the other side of MIddletown.:rolleyes:

A CC would be the perfect solution. and Yes I know - easier said then done.

and I have to add - lets get a bunch old people living downtown and drive out all the young famies - cause OMG....their kids need to be educated.....:rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[gocart]

The Meriden that I see has lots of good people trying to do lots of good things. All cities large and small have gone through changes over the last 40 years or so. Although there are exceptions, people who live, work and invest in Meriden believe that it is has a solid foundation and that there is great potential. I am puzzled why some people only see the negative and focus on the past. This city has a great location in the state, nice diversity, hard-working people and recently, people who are willing to invest in downtown and other areas of the city. How sad to live in a world where you only see negative. Even with the national economy in such turmoil, Meriden is taking steps in a positive direction. I agree with the comments, if you believe that this is such a terrible place to live it would be beneficial to all if you decided to relocate. Better yet, how about getting involved in a positve way to make positive changes. Come on, life is to short to feel so negative. I appreciate different points of view, but can't we keep it civil?

I find it funny you mention hard working people. The only thing in downtown Meriden that I see, are lazy bum's who suck off the state, and who keep bringing children in this world, that they, themselves can't take care off! Meriden is a slum! JMO

[Happy]

I'm certain that if you go downtown with an open mind and open heart, you will see lots of good things and good people downtown. I think that all people regardless of wealth (or lack of), race or religious beliefs deserve respect and opportunities. Unfortunately, some people have fewer opportunities than others. Hopefully, Meriden will be able to draw more entrepreneurs to establish new businesses and build job opportunties for its citizens.

[Charles E. Peevyhouse]

RIP Silver City Dinner. What about the decay that is occurring from Lewis
Avenue to the Chamberlain highway on West Main street. This area is a no mans land and is an entry point into downtown unless you live on the east side in some development in the woods where you do not have to travel that route.

[RC12L4]

RIP Silver City Dinner. What about the decay that is occurring from Lewis
Avenue to the Chamberlain highway on West Main street. This area is a no mans land and is an entry point into downtown unless you live on the east side in some development in the woods where you do not have to travel that route.

I'd have to agree with this, getting to downtown via West Main Street I kinda feel like this:

http://img2.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/061127/15506__madmax_l.jpg

[Charles E. Peevyhouse]

I'd have to agree with this, getting to downtown via West Main Street I kinda feel like this:

http://img2.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/061127/15506__madmax_l.jpg


Redoing downtown Meriden 500 million, this picture priceless.

[alwaysright]

it's crazy- one new joint opens and one closes. Thank goodness the mall has troubles now (today's RJ) that's why downtown crashed and semi-burned. Good luck to the hapless hopefull that invest-

and what about the fire escapes on ALL the east side of colony st buildings? OUT OF CODE. no second means of egress. No way out in a fire from the upper floors-AND the proper, enclosed and lit fire escapes cannot fit in the room behind the buildings because the railroad owns the land. Cut 'em all down to one floor- THAT should make the planner real happy. but then, what plan does HE have?????

[UNiRAC]

Meridens PLAN after floods and 'Dah Hub'
Quote:
Originally Posted by catnap
I don't know what's the answer to downtown

In my mind the only thing that would 'save' downtown is something like ... a major draw - putting the police station and courthouse smack downtown was a huge mistake - people don't want to be there in the first place...either because it looks unattractive or dangerous or simply there is no easy parking,,,

You can't put in something like a store...and "hope" people will come - you have to put something there that people ed note: Would like to come to like Hubbars Park ''HAVE to come too - but not a courthouse ...a college, a major insurance company or something with tons of employees or students, something like that. How about an elementary school?..a private school. but that's not gonna happen...I've often wondered if downtown should just be moved...like to the rather bustling east side. I don't know what the answer is. [end quote-quote
I said [K.I.S.S ]
Good post and idealz CATnip,,,
#1 people like 'downtown as quaint , and prime real-estate needs Non-Essential Gov't relocated
#2 people like wide open spaces like the new HUB and Hubbard park [make a nice 'Parking lot' for a major draw like Veterans Coleseum<sp> in the 80's in New HAVEN] >>> Jonie Mitchell tune playing now.
#3 Sports,Arts, or a CIRCUS field [like 100 yrs ago]
just don't fool with Mother Nature and that flood zone
keep business out of the FLOOD-Zone but y'all must see this [from the early 60's - caution- not any longer politically correct - KingFish Sellz a lot ! ] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EX-R1YQvUho :eek: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EX-R1YQvUho :cool:
btw: flame me if ya must but ''Don't TAZ me Bro' ''
goin' back to uTuBe to find AMOS & Cosby too !:D

[UNiRAC]

keep business out of the FLOOD-Zone but y'all must see this [from the early 60's - caution- not any longer politically correct - KingFish Sellz a lot ! ] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EX-R1YQvUho :eek: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EX-R1YQvUho :cool:
btw: flame me if ya must but ''Don't TAZ me Bro' ''
goin' back to uTuBe to find AMOS & Cosby too !:D
Bring it to a big parking lot and people will come [ to the floating museum] ---> http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2008/07/24/arts/design/20080724_ZAHA_index.html
:cool:

[Jenny78]

As a British person who has been transplanted to the heart of Meriden i feel that i can offer some sort of indepentant perspective on the whole issue, in Middletown it seems the people are more friendly i have been in Meriden for almost 10 months now and making friends in this City is one of the hardest things i've ever had to do, the social community is almost none existant where in Middletown it seems to be a more relaxed and easy going atmosphere especially in the Resturants and Bars. I think the problem is how much money is there to spend on downtown Meriden and what downtown rejuvination does it require, on the whole i personally think it looks scruffy and areas near where public transport stops, i.e the train station/bus stop are not a respectable area where you can if passing go this is a place i want to visit as its mostly rundown buildings and no commercial features at all, my wife who has lived here for all her life has informed me they've been trying to improve the downtown area since she was at high school some 15 years ago, personally i would knock down all the buildings near the train/bus station and make them face the railroad with a commercial plaza, open a museum about local history and life in meriden, a new meeting place for the whole public with street cafe's and definatly more police presence on the beat, the city where i came from in Britain (Manchester) had one of the highest crime rates in the world and it was the introduction of police on the beat and new and improved shopping and Arts features that slowly changed the place into the vibrant and modern city it is now, i would also make the curtis memorial libary into an art gallery and encorage local students and people to fill the walls of it creating a culture area that is truly lacking in the downtown area, the carpark area that is opposite the bus station would if cleared and replanted make an excelent venue to hold outdoor events such as fairs and even a market, traders need to be encoraged to come to a town and small traders would be the ideal start to get in tourists from other places knowing that one saturday a month there was somewhere different for them to goto, a community leaflet i think should be avaidable for everyone free of charge that lets people know whats on and when or maybe a notice board outside the town hall, as for the last 10 months things that have been going on in meriden have been hard to find out until the last minuite for example i had no idea of the St Patricks day parade untill my wife went to the shop that day and told me that there was one going on, the city should also have one day a year that is "Meriden Day" where everyone however young or old is encoraged to come downtown for a celebration of all the cultures of the city if you used the large car park we could have stalls showcasing the food, arts and other organisations that do great work in this City and it would encorage new volunteers to organisations that find it hard to get people due to lack of coverage for there cause, overall i think there is hundreds of things we can do to improve the Downtown area but improving the public transport to me is a must too, with gas prices being as high as they are at the moment you have to encorage people to come in by other means and one or two buses an hour is no where near good enough in my opinion, and Meriden should have its OWN taxi company so that people are able to go out in the evening have a few drinks and social activitys and be able to find a way home that doesn't require waiting 2-3 hours for a taxi or knowing that the bus service stops running at 6pm, this city could be a haven for people of all ages if people were able to enjoy there time there, with new and differnet activitys and a better looking and easy accessable downtown area

just my humble opinion :)

[jma]

Jenny, first and foremost, welcome to Meriden! We appreciate your input, and I think you have some terrific ideas. Many here have been around long enough to remember Meriden when it was a bustling community, and downtown was similar to NYC! It's hard to imagine what it could be again, since it's been unattractive for so long. I'd love to see it vibrant again!

[RC12L4]

I'm curious, of all the people who are saying downtown isn't that bad just exactly how far away from downtown do you live? Do you plan on moving closer to downtown to enjoy all the great things it has to offer?

[jma]

I'm walking distance to downtown from the East side. I grew up on Springdale Ave, still walking distance. I agree that there are a lot of good things there, but it still has a long way to go. It does seem that the further away you live from the area, the scarier it seems!

[Jenny78]

If you put a 55 and older complex up and not new stores and new food service shops what are you to do with the young generation? You may be blind to it but they are turning to the streets and because they have money to burn it goes to drugs not the mall which has crap stores and not to the movie theatre because most kids can't get a ride up there.....Hartford was a jumping town and for the most part still is but take away downtown from us and what do you give in return that's right nothing. These kids aren't kids of old anymore and anyone with half that knowledge would know that. So I say build new cafe's ones where the kids could go have a coffee and be creative with their thoughts and ideas, maybe throw in a pool hall where they could test their talent but I say NO to turning downtown into a 55 and older complex plus the loss of tax to the city would be immeasurable. By the way I'm 29. Love light and blessings to all of you xxxxx:)

[UNiRAC]

... creating a culture area that is truly lacking in the downtown area, the carpark area that is opposite the bus station would if cleared and replanted make an excelent venue to hold outdoor events such as fairs and even a market, traders need to be encoraged to come to a town and small traders would be the ideal start to get in tourists from other places knowing that one saturday a month there was somewhere different for them to goto, a community leaflet i think should be avaidable for everyone free of charge that lets people know whats on and when or maybe a notice board outside the town hall, as for the last 10 months things that have been going on in meriden have been hard to find out until the last minuite for example i had no idea of the St Patricks day parade untill my wife went to the shop that day and told me that there was one going on, the city should also have one day a year that is "Meriden Day" where everyone however young or old is encoraged to come downtown for a celebration of all the cultures of the city if you used the large car park we could have stalls showcasing the food, arts and other organisations that do great work in this City and it would encorage new volunteers to organisations that find it hard to get people due to lack of coverage for there cause, overall i think there is hundreds of things we can do to improve the Downtown area
just my humble opinion :)
:D
Here is my 10 chars... the Seaside Park [Barnum's Winter Circus field] was another success for Dead-heads [ www.followthevibes.com ] and IRISH feastavals and 4th of July COLEMAN Bros. arcadia and Concerts and Ball fields [ the sea shore still is not safe for kids swimming with polution from the WEST [ FRFLD/GRNWCH/NRWLK] BUT... all it is is [sic] OPEN EARTH ! Unbuild it and they will come [ I hope to see a ELEPHANTs grazing at harbor brook w/ William Tell's overture bangin' away ] :cool:

[marine1]

If a metro rail ran through Springfield to New Haven (not Amtrak) with stops in North Haven, Wallingford, Meriden, Berlin, Hartford, Windsor, Windsor Locks, Enfield.Then, the Meriden train station could be used by many middle class people (people with bucks). The metro would have to be cheaper than amtrack with more departures and arrivals. People don't just work 9 to 5 anymore. A bigger train station could be built with more jobs. But please don't put another dunkin donuts in there. I would like to have a super market with fresh foods. In this town I am turning into a donut.

[alwaysright]

If they slowed the train in murdin and the passengers took a hard look at the back of colony street- ie: the see through debacle, the back of the laRosa building (sprinklers anyone???), the other two to the left of those.... the people would stay right on the train and consider Berlin instead.

A train station won't do the trick- we would need a real downtown first. And with the recent editorial that says EVEN the RJ says tear 'em down... who can argue? Shewecky has ruined several buildings already, and that lilting, see through mess is not only an eyesore- but a wreck. I'm surprised the adjacent building owners allow it to be tacked to their sides as it is-

as for the arts walk..."come on boots, keep walkin"(Nancy Sinatra)

[marine1]

:o No, I am not talking about attracting tourist or visitors to meriden, just commuters in meriden who live in middle class area in meriden. They could park at the train station and commute to Hartford or New Haven. The trains have to be user friendly. Convient, on-time, in-expensive or people will just use their cars to get to work.

[RC12L4]

:o No, I am not talking about attracting tourist or visitors to meriden, just commuters in meriden who live in middle class area in meriden. They could park at the train station and commute to Hartford or New Haven. The trains have to be user friendly. Convient, on-time, in-expensive or people will just use their cars to get to work.

There are plenty of jobs that I'd like to apply for but the distance and traffic is a deciding factor for me not to.

[Deb]

I've just run thru this thread and have not hit everything posted. Hope I'm not repetitious. Just my 2 cents.
I live 1 mile from downtown in the Brookside/City park neighborhood. Been here for over 35 years. I am originally from Hartford and grew up 1 mile from Hartford's downtown. I've seen many many changes in both cities.
I think you have to start by attracting middle class to upper middle class people to the area to live. Apartments, condo's etc. You can then open shops, markets specialty stores etc. with a customer base right there. Once the improvements are made and with adequate parking you will attract people from outside the area.
Big big mistake was building the Mills apartments downtown. While low income housing may have been needed it should never have been put downtown.
That having been said, I'm not sure any of this would be worth it at this point. I am also very disappointed that Pawn Shops and Check Cashing establishments were allowed to move to Main Street. Again, very bad decision. Those are things seen in inner city and poor neighborhoods. Not in an area that you are trying to preserve or build up.

[Happy]

Hi Deb,
You have a very good perspective about Meriden. As you can tell from reading, I am still positive about a possibility of downtown becoming a viable retail/entertainment/restaurant area. And as I've said before, if you live, rent, work or do business in Meriden, it will only enhance your investment if downtown survives in some way, shape or form. With so much online shopping, malls will have to work hard to survive. Hopefully, downtown Meriden can become a destination for specialty or locally owned items, ethnic foods, restaurants, arts and so much more. With generations of family who have lived and thrived in Meriden, I will continue to support and be hopeful for this area.

[Deb]

Thank you Happy.
Meriden gets a bad rap and the sad thing about it is many times it comes from people who live here. I am not going to deny that there are drugs and gangs in my area but it has gotten better. The perception of my neighborhood as 'dangerous' has always been a bit over the top. Maybe I'm foolish but I've never been afraid to go out at night. Maybe it's because I came from Hartford whose problems were worse and still are. I looked at Mills back in the early 70's and thought it wasn't that bad. Not compared to Bellevue Square and Stowe Village in Hartford. I think sometimes people are afraid. Especially if they have not grown up in a diverse community. That is one thing I will always be grateful for. I've gotten to know and appreciate all kinds of people and cultures.
I do like Meriden and I too hope it succeeds. The city must forge ahead in making property owners and absentee landlords fix their property. They must continue to get rid of blight.
We do have tons of problems. I believe we pay way too much in taxes while certain local developers have gotten away with murder for years. Why keep giving contracts to developers who owe the city back taxes for instance?
I don't really want to go on a rant about issues. It is just refreshing to read your posts Happy with a positive spin on the things that are right while not being in denial about the problems.

[marine1]

Well, I don't like the idea of middle class people living here. That means I would have to move. I would like middle class people coming here to attract jobs for lower class people. A good mass transit system would work where proffesionals would come and after work maybe shop at an upscale stores. Organic tomatoes, organic pasta, half-calf lattes, over priced jeans. What ever they buy. Mass transit that's open from 5am untill 10pm with lots of cops around with plenty of lighting is a must.

[Man in the Middle]

I believe we pay way too much in taxes while certain local developers have gotten away with murder for years. Why keep giving contracts to developers who owe the city back taxes for instance?


Can you back this up with some facts? For example, what contracts have been awarded to delinquent taxpayers? Who's been getting away with "murder", and how is that defined?

[Deb]

I hesitate to name names because let's face it, my opinion in this forum is not worth any problems. Let's just say the contractors I am referring have several properties in this city and have owed thousands of dollars in property taxes and still been awarded contracts or been given permission to build in the city over the 35 years I've lived here. If they can't pay the taxes on existing property why let them build more? I also know people who have lived in their buildings over the years and not all has been up to code. Read the article in today's paper. 'Nuff said.

[alwaysright]

your last post says it all. maybe you didn't mean "murder" just neglect