WWII Clamdigger -
February 1945

Post War Changes

Many interested residents of Rowayton are formulating opinions on the post war change that is being planned for the property in the center of town, namely the Ambler Estate and the old hotel property adjoining it. [East side of Rowayton Ave, site of the current Post Office complex. Ed.] The tract of land, which is directly opposite the local post office and group of retail stores, has been recently submitted to the Zoning Commission to be rezoned for business with ideas for several modern stores and a theater. The hotel property owner has already drawn up plans for a six family apartment house and expects to do extensive remodeling.

Public opinion takes several views. One part offers the theory that Rowayton will lose its small town charm and its secluded country atmosphere if business and apartments are allowed to develop. It would become too commercialized and bring in congested building.

Another party agrees that building and development is bound to come to post war Rowayton and would be a boon to the town. It would take away an eye sore from the town's center and bring a modern construction with conveyances that would be a help to residents. Eventually, the property on Wilson Avenue would be cut into lots and moderate priced homes would bring middle class families to the community.

What other changes will take place can not be foretold now but the future world will be a progressive one and Rowayton can not escape unscathed. The chief problem is whether you want Rowayton to stay the way it is or to develop into a Community Center.