In the wake of the Shakespeare Theatre fire in Stratford, he future of that property remains up for debate.
Many would like to see a new senior center, but, not everyone is on board.
Within hours of three arson suspects appearing in court Wednesday to answer charges of torching Stratford’s Shakespeare Theater, talks intensifying over what to do with the land left behind.
Stratford Mayor Laura Hoydick (R) said “People are saying what they want, what they think should be on the site.”
Mayor Hoydick got an earful from dozens of senior citizens attending a meeting to write out their vision of what should, or should not replace the theater.
The possibilities include another theater, a senior center, or a green space.
One thing is certain. “The deed specifically states it is to be accessible and used by the public,” said Mayor Hoydick.
Related: Arrest warrants shed light on Shakespeare Theater arson in Stratford
Until now the mayor is tight-lipped about what she wants to see on the site.
“I would love a cultural use,” Mayor Hoydick said. “I love the idea of open space.”
There’s no timetable on a final decision.
For now, the mayor says she wants to hear from as many community stakeholders as possible.
“I look at it as an opportunity to pull stratford together by working together we can improve our community,” said Mayor Hoydick.