Residents want "family friendly" Green

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- There's a lot of talk these days about possible changes to the New Haven Green in time for the city's 375th anniversary next Spring. Some of the ideas being tossed around really have people around town talking.

Hang around the New Haven Green for a while and ask folks about changes they'd like to see and one common theme emerges: make it more "family friendly."

"You could have kiddie rides, pony rides, things in that nature and something to make it more kid friendly," said James Baker.

"Have a lot more activities around for the kids," said Delia Stokes, "places for the kids to go."

City Hall and local merchants are collecting ideas to make the Green the economic hub of the city someday.

Some of the thoughts being tossed around include lighted sidewalks, colorful benches, a kiosk, perhaps with a coffee shop inside.

If you don't like those suggestions, how about an ice skating rink, splash pad or a swimming pool?

"The pool is a little out there," said Christy Hass, New Haven Department Director, Parks and Squares.

Perhaps the idea is out there, but at this point nothing is off the table.

Does the Green with all of its history and beauty and grandeur really need a change? And if so, how much would it cost?

For now at least, the answer to that is don't worry about it.

"So, we're not even talking about money at this point," Hass said, "so it's very pie in the sky, but it's also allowing people to use their minds and they're creativity."

People News 8 spoke with are all in favor of that creativity; if it can be done without impacting the historic churches and other buildings that have always been a part of the Green.

"If there's a chance that they put these things down here, you want to maintain a level of respect that would not distract from the historical value of this particular Green," said Ashley Von Britton.

The city says it hopes to have some solid plans on paper by the Fall, and at least the beginning of a shovel-ready project ready to go by next Spring.

With Gateway Community College opening its downtown campus, 2013 could be quite a year for New Haven.