Greenway Gets Environmental & Historical Signage


Click signs for larger images

David Ahearn (Greenway Committee) Mayor Staffieri, Meghan Ruhta (HVA) and Bob Arujo and Sue Hitchcock from Sikorsky getting ready to "unwrap" the Greenway's new signs.

Mayor Staffieri welcomed members of the Housatonic Valley Association, the Greenway Committee  and others for the ribbon cutting on two new informational signs for Derby’s Greenway. The signage was funded and made possible through the donations of Sikorsky Aircraft, a Division of United Technologies Company and implemented through the hard work and dedication of the Housatonic Valley Association (HVA). Onhand from Sikorsky were Bob Arujo and Sue Hitchcok while Meghan Rhuta, Sam Dziken and Elaine Labella represented the HVA.

The signs provide an historical perspective of the cleanup of O’Sullivan’s Island, the history of manufacturing along the riverfront, information regarding wildlife habitat and ways to protect and maintain the rivers. One sign will be placed at the entrance of O’Sullivan’s Island and the other will be placed at the Greenway entrance on Division Street.

In 2010 HVA erected signs donated by Sikorsky. The funds provided for the placement of educational and historic signs along the Housatonic River beginning at Sikorsky walkway in Stratford. This was the first in a series of signs that HVA envisioned placing along the Housatonic River. Downtown Shelton has also been slated for signage.  Sikorsky and HVA have teamed up to help others enjoy the walkways which provide pedestrian access to the Housatonic riverfront in all three communities. The signs are placed in strategic locations allowing visitors to learn about the Housatonic River and the communities along the river.

“I am delighted that Derby is a part of an ongoing project to highlight our rivers and to help people reconnect with the rivers. The Housatonic River has supported heavy manufacturing over the years. Now it has a new role and people are getting reacquainted with the river as a source of recreational enjoyment. I wish to thank Sikorsky, Elaine LaBella and Meghan Ruta of HVA, the Greenway Committee and city officials and all those who have helped play a role in this project. I invite you to come and visit our Greenway, stop and read the new signs and take a stroll around O’Sullivan’s Island. There is something for everyone to enjoy in Derby.”, said Mayor Staffieri.

  Story posted on October 26, 2011


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