HEART OF NORWALK

Client: City of Norwalk

The Arroyo Group prepared the Heart of Norwalk Vision Plan, which articulated a clear, consensus-driven direction for the San Antonio Village and Firestone Corridor, two aging areas in Norwalk’s core. The Plan was based on a broad, comprehensive and meaningful outreach process conducted during the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Included was a consistent social media campaign with over 700 followers and 3,000 post likes and comments; a paper and online survey reaching 363 households; four engaging videos with over 3,000 reproductions; and almost 100 participants in online workshops. The Plan uncovered the desire of Norwalk’s population, particularly the large youth and young adult population, to have higher-quality commercial amenities and experiences located within a vibrant, mixed-use setting.

Putting form to the community’s desire and operating within the context of economic realities, the Plan establishes two centers to the Heart of Norwalk – the Front Street Historic District, an entertainment district with ample space for outdoor dining and enjoyment in a historic setting, and the Town Square District, a mixed-use commercial center focused on a community gathering space. The two centers are linked by San Antonio Drive, an iconic complete street corridor, and supported by new residential and public transit opportunities along the Firestone Corridor. The Plan was adopted unanimously by City Council and is forming the basis for a current Specific Plan effort.