On January 21, 2026, Ridgefield voters gathered at a Special Town Meeting at Veterans Park School to decide whether to establish a new local historic district along East Ridge Road, from Route 102 (Branchville Road) north to Prospect Street. With 177 electors and 2 Grand List voters in attendance, the motion passed overwhelmingly, with just three votes in opposition.
Stephen Bartkus, Executive Director of the Ridgefield Historical Society, said, “The approval of the East Ridge Historic District is a historic moment for Ridgefield and the Historical Society was happy to assist with this initiative. By extending protection to our third ridge, the community has affirmed that thoughtful preservation strengthens our economy, enhances our quality of life, and safeguards the character that defines our town for future generations.”
During the meeting, Historic District Commission Chair Dan O’Brien reminded attendees that when Ridgefield was founded in 1708, it was laid out along three ridges, High Ridge, Main Street, and East Ridge. While the first two have long been protected by historic district designation, East Ridge had remained unprotected until now. Supporters emphasized that historic districts manage change rather than prevent it, focusing on exterior architectural features visible from the street.
Public comment reflected broad and thoughtful support for the creation of the East Ridge Historic District. Steven Meyers, President of the Ridgefield Historical Society’s Board of Directors, spoke about his family’s decision to move to Ridgefield twice, emphasizing that Main Street and the town’s iconic and architecturally diverse structures are “our special sauce” and central to Ridgefield’s identity. Longtime resident Sue Manning, who has lived on East Ridge for 55 years, praised the foresight of earlier generations who preserved and repurposed historic buildings such as the Prospector Theater, the Cass Gilbert Fountain, and Lounsbury House, noting that Ridgefield has long balanced preservation with progress. Andrea Beebe, a 40-year resident, underscored the importance of protecting the façade and visual continuity of the three ridges, reminding those present that they were seated in a mid-century modern landmark designed by a significant architect and urging the community to treasure the daily experience of walking Main Street. Elizabeth DiSalvo clarified that a historic overlay does not halt development but provides tools to guide it responsibly, while Sara Sved echoed that preservation and practicality can coexist, pointing to the successful repurposing of the former high school, now known as the Venus Building, as evidence that aesthetics and functionality need not be at odds. Together, these speakers framed the district not as a barrier to change, but as a proactive measure to help Ridgefield thoughtfully shape its future while honoring its past.
The newly established district reflects distinct phases of Ridgefield’s architectural story, from late 19th-century resort-era homes to early 20th-century residences built by immigrants, tradespeople, and merchants, and post–World War II development.
The Ridgefield Historical Society applauds the residents, Historic District Commission members, and Town officials who participated in this important civic process and helped secure a lasting legacy for East Ridge Road.
