“Inner” Grand Avenue — that area between downtown and Fair Haven, State to East Streets — is today a mere shadow of the thriving commercial district that once served the eastern side of New Haven. In addition to providing a plethora of retail and other business establishments, it was also a mosaic of numerous cultures, most long gone from the area: German and Russian Jews, Italians, Irish and African-Americans existed side-by-side in one of the city’s most diverse neighborhoods. Likewise, this activity led to the creation of the nearby “Wooster Heights”, a quiet residential area which boasts an amazing array of splendid Victorian homes.

The decline of local industries, combined with the construction of I-91 bisecting the neighborhood, had a devastating impact on this once vibrant street. Today Upper Grand Avenue supports just a handful of businesses, two storefront churches and a number of social service agencies, which all might change with a proposed mid-rise apartment building.

In the spirit of Jane Jacobs, the New Haven Preservation Trust and the Historic Wooster Square Association invite all to come and share their knowledge of this once bustling street — or learn more about its past as well as visit today’s quiet, historic residential streets surrounding it. Come share your thoughts and ideas for what the future might hold.

Hosted by: Barbara Lamb and Linda Reeder

Parking is free at the New Haven Parking Authority Lot on Olive and State Streets. The Grand Avenue Fire Station is served by CT Transit busline 212 from Fair Haven and the New Haven Green.

THIS EVENT IS NOW FULL

Co-sponsored with Preservation Connecticut and the Historic Wooster Square Association.