Author: snyder_admin

Celebrate the Norwalk Oyster Festival This Weekend!

It’s that time of year again! The Norwalk Oyster Festival 2024 is happening this weekend from September 6–8 at Veterans Memorial Park. This exciting annual event celebrates Norwalk’s maritime history with a variety of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and, of course, plenty of delicious oysters! If you’re looking for a fun-filled weekend, the Oyster Festival is the perfect place to be.

Planning your visit? Here’s everything you need to know about parking options and how to make your trip as smooth as possible.

Nearby Parking for the Oyster Festival

Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, finding parking near the festival is essential. Fortunately, ParkNorwalk.org offers several convenient parking options, just a short walk or shuttle ride from the event grounds. Here’s a breakdown of the four nearest parking locations:

1. Haviland Deck

  • Location: 11 Haviland St, Norwalk, CT
  • Distance from the Festival: ~0.5 miles (about a 10-minute walk)
  • Rates: See Pricing / $10.50 daily max
  • Why Park Here: This garage is perfect if you plan to explore more of the South Norwalk (SoNo) district before or after the festival.

2. North Water Lot

  • Location: 20 North Water St, Norwalk, CT
  • Distance from the Festival: ~0.3 miles (less than a 5-minute walk)
  • Rates: See Pricing / $10.50 daily max
  • Why Park Here: The North Water Lot is the closest parking option to the festival entrance, making it a convenient choice for quick access.

3. Maritime Garage

  • Location: 11 North Water St, Norwalk, CT
  • Distance from the Festival: ~0.4 miles (about a 7-minute walk)
  • Rates: See Pricing / $8.00 daily max, after 5pm $2 daily max
  • Why Park Here: Located next to the Maritime Aquarium, this garage is ideal if you’re combining your Oyster Festival visit with a trip to other popular attractions in Norwalk.

4. Webster Lot

  • Location: 61 Washington St, Norwalk, CT
  • Distance from the Festival: ~0.7 miles (about a 12-minute walk)
  • Rates: See Pricing / No daily max, $1 per hour
  • Why Park Here: For visitors who enjoy walking through historic Washington Street and the SoNo area, the Webster Lot offers easy access and affordable rates.

Parking Tips for Festival Attendees

  • Wheels2U: Affordable ride-sharing in Norwalk. Just download the app, request a ride, and a shuttle bus will pick you up and take you where you need to go. Book a Ride
  • Arrive Early: The Oyster Festival is a highly attended event, so parking spots tend to fill up quickly. Arriving early can help you secure a spot in one of the nearby garages.
  • Multiple Payment Options: All Norwalk Parking Authority garages accept cash, credit cards, and mobile payments, making parking stress-free.

Questions? Contact Us!

If you have any questions about parking or need additional information, don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team. We’re here to ensure your Oyster Festival experience is hassle-free!

Notice: Temporary Closure of East Norwalk Train Station

The City of Norwalk, in conjunction with the Norwalk Parking Authority, wishes to inform all residents and commuters that the East Norwalk Train Station will be temporarily closed from August 17 to September 6, 2024, for necessary maintenance and upgrades. During this period, the station will be inaccessible to all public transit users.

Alternative Routes for Public Transit Users:

  • MTA Services: We encourage those who typically use the East Norwalk Train Station to plan their commute through the South Norwalk Train Station or Westport Train Station. Both stations will be fully operational during this period, and regular MTA services will continue without interruption.
  • Norwalk Transit Bus Services: To accommodate affected commuters, Norwalk Transit will be enhancing its bus routes to provide convenient access to nearby stations. Please check the Norwalk Transit website for updated schedules and routes to ensure a smooth transition during this period. See the schedule here.

We understand that this closure may cause inconvenience, and we appreciate your patience as we work to improve our public transportation infrastructure. For more information and updates, please contact the Norwalk Parking Authority directly.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Learn more about the improvements being made to the east Norwalk train station by visiting the Walk Bridge website here.

Norwalk Parking Authority Joins Norwalk Night Out!

On August 1st, the Norwalk Parking Authority had a fantastic time participating in Norwalk Night Out, a community event aimed at strengthening relationships between residents and local organizations. It was a great opportunity to connect with the community and support our customers directly.

Under the ParkNorwalk tent, we were busy answering questions about our parking services, sharing valuable information about our parking lots, and addressing any concerns residents had. We also had some great giveaways, including branded water bottles, handheld fans, and informative brochures to help everyone navigate our parking facilities with ease.

A big thank you to everyone who stopped by to chat with us, grab some swag, and enjoy the evening. We’re always here to support you and make your parking experience as smooth as possible.

 

South Norwalk Train Station Improvement Project: What You Need to Know

South Norwalk Equitable TOD Infrastructure Improvement Project

Dear Norwalk Residents and Commuters,

We’d like to inform you about the upcoming infrastructure improvement project at the South Norwalk Train Station. This initiative is part of the South Norwalk Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) plan, aimed at enhancing the convenience, safety, and overall experience for all station users.

Download Flyer

Here’s what you need to know:

Project Overview

Starting on or around July 15, 2024, work will commence on the traffic island at the South Norwalk Train Station. This project is a significant step towards modernizing the station area to better serve our growing community.

Traffic and Pedestrian Management

Vehicular Traffic: Regular traffic flow will be maintained throughout the work. We understand the importance of smooth vehicular movement and have ensured that there will be minimal disruption.
Pedestrian Safety: While work is being performed, pedestrians will be directed away from the work zone to ensure safety. Please follow the signage and instructions from the crew to avoid any inconvenience.

Station Access: Full access to the northbound train station building will be maintained during the work period. Your daily commute should remain unaffected.

What to Expect

Work Hours: Construction will typically occur during standard working hours. We aim to minimize noise and disruptions, but some degree of inconvenience is unavoidable. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Communication: Regular updates will be provided on the progress of the project. Stay tuned to our official channels for the latest information.

How to Get More Information

If you have any concerns or questions, our Customer Service team is here to help. You can reach us at 203-854-3200 or submit a request online at Norwalk Click Request.

We value your cooperation and understanding as we work to improve our beloved train station. This project is a testament to our commitment to enhancing the infrastructure and quality of life in South Norwalk.

Thank you for your patience and support.

Norwalk Parking Authority

East Norwalk Train Station Temporarily Closed for Construction of Walk Bridge Project

From March 10 to April 1, 2024, the Metro Transportation Authority (MTA) will be closing the East Norwalk Train Station for the Walk Bridge Project.

Please note that during this period, no trains will be stopping at the East Norwalk Train Station. However, the parking lot on the south side of the station will remain open for your convenience.

At Park Norwalk, our priority is ensuring our customers’ satisfaction, and we understand the inconvenience this closure may cause. As an alternative, permit holders can utilize the South Norwalk Train Station Garage at no additional cost.

If you find this alternative suitable, reach out to us by calling or visiting the NPA office at 11 North Water Street to obtain further instructions and gain access to the South Norwalk Train Station Garage. You can also email us at norwalkparkingpermits@lazparking.com for assistance.

Daily parkers are also welcome to park at the South Norwalk Train Station at their convenience.

Thank you for your understanding, and we apologize for the inconvenience.

Dive into the Festive Spirit with These Two Unmissable Holiday Events!

As the air gets crisper and the scent of cinnamon and evergreen fills the streets, it can only mean one thing – the holiday season is upon us! Brace yourselves for a double dose of yuletide magic with two upcoming events that promise to make your heart swell with joy and anticipation.

holiday events

Holiday Extravaganza: November 25th, 3 pm-8 pm

Mark your calendars for November 25th, as the town transforms into a festive haven for the much-anticipated Holiday Extravaganza. From 3 pm to 8 pm, be prepared to be swept away by a whirlwind of enchanting activities.

Picture yourself on a charming carousel, laughing in delight as it spins under the twinkling lights. For the little ones (and the young at heart), a magical encounter with Elsa and Anna is sure to make this a day to remember.

At 5:30 pm, gather around for a moment of pure magic as the town’s Christmas tree comes to life with a breathtaking illumination. The beauty of this tree-lighting ceremony is bound to leave you in awe.

If you’re in the mood for some holiday shopping, step into the Indoor Craft Market, where local artisans showcase their talents with unique and handcrafted treasures. And as the night unfolds, let the rhythm of live local performances serenade you into the festive spirit.

But that’s not all – venture into Wall Street Wonderland for an extra dose of holiday charm that will leave you with memories to cherish.

Wall Street Wonderland: December 2nd, 3 pm-8 pm

As December rolls in, prepare for another evening of joy and wonder at Wall Street Wonderland on December 2nd, from 3 pm to 8 pm.

This event promises to be a sensory delight with captivating performances by talented local artists and groups. Feel the warmth of velvety hot cocoa as you meander through a holiday wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and charming decorations.

Thrill-seekers can experience the excitement of the Fun Slide, while everyone is invited to witness the magic of the tree lighting at 5:30 pm. And what would the holiday season be without a visit from the jolly old man himself? Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa, spreading cheer and joy to all.

With activities catering to all ages, Wall Street Wonderland is the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with friends and family.

So, lace up your coziest boots, bundle up in your favorite scarf, and join us for these two spectacular events that promise to make this holiday season one for the books. Let the magic begin!

Halloween Nightfair on Washington Street

Are you ready for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, food, and fun in the heart of Norwalk, Connecticut? The Nightfair on Washington Street is just around the corner, promising a magical experience for visitors of all ages. This exciting event is set to light up the town, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere that you won’t want to miss.

The Halloween Nightfair on Washington Street will take place this weekend, Saturday, October 28th from 5 PM to 10 PM and Sunday, October 29th from 11 AM to 4 PM. To see the upcoming road closure, view the map below:

One of the highlights of this event is the fantastic live entertainment lineup. You can expect incredible performances from the Goodboys, Laidback Luke, and Ryan Cabrera.

A night out isn’t complete without delicious food and drinks, and the Nightfair on Washington Street won’t disappoint. You’ll find a wide variety of food vendors offering classic Halloween treats.

Families are encouraged to attend, as the Nightfair on Washington Street offers a range of activities for children. From pumpkin painting to carnival games, costume contests, and more! There’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained while parents enjoy the live music and delicious food.

The Nightfair on Washington Street is more than just an evening of entertainment; it’s a celebration of community and togetherness. It’s a time for friends and neighbors to come together and enjoy the best that Norwalk has to offer.

Make sure to mark your calendar for the Nightfair on Washington Street and bring your friends and family along for a night of pure enjoyment. With live music, delicious food, artisan vendors, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a fantastic way to spend an evening in Norwalk. We hope to see you there!

Beach Season Opening–May 15th

Norwalk residents who have a vehicle registered in another town or city can still buy their Beach Pass. Visit here for more information.

Norwalk residents, don’t forget to guarantee your free parking pass at Calf Pasture Beach and/or Shady Beach by May 15th. You can verify your vehicle by clicking here.

After construction work on a new parking lot at Calf Pasture Beach, we have expanded parking, which will accommodate parking spaces for 379 resident-only vehicles and 150 non-resident vehicles. This brings the total number of resident-only parking spaces at Calf Pasture and Shady Beach to nearly 650, including 100 parking spots along the water, 100 along the marina fencing, and 65 at Shady Beach.

All non-resident parking for Calf Pasture Beach is first come, first serve based on available spots. Day Parking passes can be purchased on the ParkMobile app or at one of the two pay station kiosks located on the main sidewalk next to the parking lot. Day Parking Passes can be purchased on the ParkMobile app or by calling 877-727-5730. (Beach Zone# 2035)

Beach fees:

  • The non-resident parking fee is $42/per car on weekdays before 5:00 pm
  • $30/per car after 5:00 pm
  • $72/per car on Saturday and Sunday

The “Landlocked Towns 2023 season passes” will be available for purchase after April 15th, 2023, at City Hall- room 225, Monday-Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm.

For more information, interested parties can call our Beach Hotline at (203) 854-7924.

Norwalk Upgrades Meter Parking with Pay-By-Plate Parking

The City of Norwalk, Connecticut, has announced an exciting upgrade to its parking system in partnership with Flowbird Group, the leader in curbside management and urban mobility solutions. The City will be replacing its all single-space parking meters with Flowbird’s Solar-Powered Smart Parking Kiosks, fully equipped with the industry’s latest technology. The upgrade is a part of the City’s goal to enhance the customer service experience with a modernized solution while providing more payment options.

The new parking system will feature pay-by-plate parking kiosks that are accessible for all customers, including meeting ADA standards. To begin, the user simply enters their license plate number and desired length of stay. Payment will now be accepted with either coins, debit, or credit card. Once payment has been made, the parking session has started and there is no need to walk back to their vehicle to display a receipt on the dashboard. 

By implementing modernized pay stations with convenient payment options, the City will be able to better manage parking turnover and visitor influx during peak seasons.

All transaction data from the pay stations are sent in real-time to Flowbird’s intelligent data management suite and shared with the City’s enforcement solution, ready to be integrated with other parking payment methods.  Using the data provided by the Flowbird system, City staff can track the highest areas of use throughout the day. This data can be valuable to help determine future event parking, including plans for staffing.

The new pay stations are expected to be installed by end of June 2023. For more information on how these pay stations will work, click here for a quick video or contact Park Norwalk directly.