BOS approves park designation in Tariffville
By:Glenn Shafer, Staff Writer
Simsbury Post
01/11/2007
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The Simsbury Board of Selectmen this week designated a town-owned parcel of land in Tariffville as a municipal park. The parcel, just under one acre, is located at 31 Main Street, across the street from the Cracker Barrel, Beauty by Jennie and Elizabeth’s Restaurant.
For the last four years, the Tariffville Village Association has lobbied town commissions for this park designation. Originally sparked into action when the town of Simsbury considered selling the land to a private developer, the Tariffville Village Association will now commence active fundraising in order to purchase a gazebo, brick sidewalks, landscaping, and lighting to the village area. If sold to a developer, a package store and apartments would have been built on the land.
Many residents in Tariffville consider the new park as a vital ingredient to the quaint atmosphere in town. The land was originally bought by the town of Simsbury for open space.
Laurie and Chet Matczak are residents of Tariffville who have been instrumental in the park designation. "It is a really nice area," said Laurie Matczak. "People really enjoy living here. We needed the park designation before we could fund-raise. The green will be a focus point."
Chet Matczak was born in Tariffville and graduated from Simsbury High School. Nine years ago he returned to Tariffville to live. He has fond memories of his childhood in Tariffville with the extensive outdoor life, both on and off the Farmington River. He said the re-investment by the town of Simsbury will lead to Tariffville becoming a hub of outdoor activity.
The Tariffville Village Association plans to raise enough money for a gazebo that will function as a home to musical performances, fall festivals, a Halloween parade, and Christmas caroling. Tariffville-based Schoenhardt Designs has committed to donate their services for the gazebo.
"This whole thing revolves around community, making a community that brings people together, taking a step back in time and preserving how things were 50 years ago," said Chet Matczak. "We want to enjoy the resources, the tremendous waterfront. The emphasis is on the kids, creating a place where parents can spend time with their kids. It's an exciting time."
©Imprint Newspapers 2007
