Proposal for 66 Grove Street to Be Discussed at Ridgefield Special Town Meeting

The Ridgefield Board of Selectpersons is set to address a significant development proposal for the vacant property at 66 Grove Street during a Special Town Meeting on Wednesday, September 4th. The agenda includes several key items related to the 66 Grove Street lease: the acceptance of the Board of Education’s request for additional square footage, a request for an 8-24 referral, and the setting of a Public Hearing and Special Town Meeting.

This proposal is aimed at addressing the growing needs of Ridgefield Public Schools, particularly for its programs serving students aged 18-22 and the Alternative High School. Both programs are currently housed in less-than-ideal facilities—portable classrooms at Veteran’s Park and a space at Ballard Green, respectively.

During the Board of Selectpersons meeting on August 14, 2024, key figures from the Ridgefield Public Schools, including Superintendent Dr. Susie DaSilva, Director of Finance Jill Browne, and Board of Education Member Sean McEvoy, presented the case for utilizing the 66 Grove Street space. Dr. DaSilva emphasized the need for a more suitable and consolidated space for both student populations, noting that the previously approved funds for expanding the A-School at Ballard Green could be redirected toward the lease for 66 Grove Street.

Dr. DaSilva highlighted that the new space at 66 Grove Street would accommodate 25 students in the 18-22 program and an average of 20-22 students in the Alternative High School, making it a suitable location for the next decade or more. The property, which spans 11,227 square feet and costs approximately $15 per square foot, presents a practical and financially viable solution for the district’s needs.

One of the critical points raised during the meeting was the cost-saving potential of keeping students in-district. Chris Murray, a Board of Selectpersons member, inquired about measuring these savings. Dr. DaSilva noted that while specific figures could be provided to the Board, out-of-district transportation costs for a single student can reach up to $100,000. This underscores the financial benefits of securing the 66 Grove Street location.

Transportation logistics were also discussed, with Dr. DaSilva explaining that the 18-22 program would utilize in-district vans, while students in the Alternative High School either drive themselves or are dropped off by parents.

First Selectman Rudy Marconi shared that the Board of Selectpersons is working to finalize the lease, including additional costs and parking considerations, with the goal of having it ready for review by the September 4th meeting. Board of Finance Chair Mike Rettger suggested combining the lease approval and build-out budget into a single Public Hearing and Town Meeting, to streamline the process. Dr. DaSilva indicated that while build-out expenses are still being finalized, they could be ready for the Public Hearing in September.

To view the agenda for this week’s Board of Selectpersons meeting, click here.