LT. GOVERNOR BYSIEWICZ & THE CONNECTICUT OFFICE OF THE ARTS DESIGNATE A CULTURAL DISTRICT IN NEW MILFORD

(NEW MILFORD, CT) – Today, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz and the Department of Economic and Community Development’s Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) announced it has approved New Milford’s application to create a Cultural District in the Town.

The district, which stretches from the historic Bleachery Dam in the south to Canterbury School to the north, and from Center Cemetery on the east to Fort Hill Road on the west, is comprised of 551 Acres (0.86 square miles). It encompasses the Village Center, the Housatonic River waterfront and a diverse array of theaters, historic buildings, parks, and cultural resources for visitors to enjoy.

"I’m so pleased to officially welcome New Milford to our constantly growing list of cultural assets across the state! New Milford offers a vibrant list of arts, historical, and cultural resources that showcase the unique character of the community,” said Lt. Governor Bysiewicz. “While this designation might feel simply ceremonial to some, cultural districts can be a significant driver for both tourism and economic and community development. Congratulations to New Milford and all who made this designation possible.”

Cultural Districts are walkable areas of a city or town that feature numerous cultural facilities, activities and/or assets. These vibrant areas draw visitors from other towns and states and serve as a hub for residents to congregate and interact. Cultural districts:

Promote and encourage artists, entrepreneurs, and creative businesses
Promote tourism and increase visitation
Improve the quality of life for residents
Strengthen distinctive character of communities
Drive economic growth and expand the tax base
Highlight local culture and history A requirement of the program is the city or town must establish a Cultural District Commission that manages all aspects of the district.

“New Milford’s downtown is already a vibrant cultural center dotted with shops, arts venues, history museums, cafes and a stunning town Green that serves as a visual anchor. Whether you’re grabbing a bite to eat before a production at TheaterWorks New Milford, popping in to make some art at the Village Center for the Arts or enjoying a quiet timeout to reflect in one of the many tranquil spaces, it’s hard to imagine a visitor who wouldn’t be enthralled with this lovely town. Spend a day or spend a weekend, New Milford will not disappoint,” said Liz Shapiro, DECD’s Director of Arts, Preservation and Museums.

“New Milford has a vibrant and thriving arts community, with a rich history of supporting culture in all its forms,” said Mayor Pete Bass. “Receiving the state’s Cultural District designation is a true honor—one that recognizes our diverse cultural assets, from historic architecture to music, theater, visual arts, and more. This designation will allow us to further support local artists and creative businesses, boost tourism, highlight our cultural heritage, and inspire deeper community engagement.”

“The Cultural District Committee worked tirelessly to identify and catalog the unique elements that define our Cultural District,” said Cultural District Committee Co-Chairman Liba Furhman. “From antique shops and historic buildings to theatres, parks, and educational facilities, we’ve documented the many assets that make this area special. We also included restaurants, lodging, shopping, and key town amenities that contribute to the overall experience.”

“We believe the establishment of the Cultural District will energize the Downtown Business District, attract more tourism, and create a supportive environment for artistic and cultural endeavors to grow and thrive in New Milford.”