Seeking Conceptual Design for “Circus Lot”

The Stonington Economic Development Commission, working alongside Town staff, are looking to find a landscape architect to provide conceptual design for a potential, future waterfront park to be located within the 'Circus Lot' (please see attached for location details). 

The 5.7-acre parcel was originally utilized for the public when the circus would come to town. At present, the lot sits vaccant and contains a significant number of invasive species. This lot, though located in the Town of Stonington, is currently owned by the Town of Westerly and was purchased from Stonington for the development of a wellhead. Ultimately, the site was not used for this and has been idle for nearly 40 years. The Town of Stonington has an opportunity to purchase this land back from the Town of Westerly, at any time, and develop it for public use with water access.

This effort is being funded thanks to a, $4,000.00 federal National Wild and Scenic Rivers System grant, passed through the Wood Pawcatuck Watershed Association, along with Town funding set aside for the Circus Lot.

The objective for this conceptual design will be to further engage the public on potential future uses of this site.

The Economic Development Commission has been exploring the potential of the Circus Lot for years, and most recently engaged a local firm in conducting a survey that looked at the site’s topography and wetlands.

In addition to taking into account the survey findings, the proposal asks that the design concept includes consideration for the following:

- Kayak/Canoe Launch - Fishing and Sitting Areas - Tables and Benches suitable for picnicking - Park Signage - Walkways along river and through park - Removal of invasive plant species and replacement with native species - Environmentally friendly, and ADA accessible walkways and parking area (note- it requests two possible parking areas, one off of Noyes Ave and the other as a TBD potential entrance point off of Liberty).

This is an exciting potential project for the Town of Stonington as it could allow public riverfront access and create an attractive public space for residents and visitors. We look forward to moving this phase of the project forward and hearing more from residents on imagining better utilization of the space for the public to enjoy.

To learn more please see attached or email DOP@Stonington-CT.Gov. Thank you.