Episode Information
The city known as "Romantic Willimantic" is filled with Victorian-era architecture, was once one of the largest producers of thread in the world. It’s also the home to a legendary “frog invasion” – which you’ll hear more about – it’s immortalized by enormous frog statues guarding the bridge into town.
Today, we’re broadcasting from the Willimantic Brewing Company…a thriving restaurant and microbrewery, housed in a 1909 Post Office – left abandoned for 30 years – and reopened as an anchor of downtown business in the mid-1990s.
The Thread city itself has undergone a bit of a renaissance – but how’s it thriving during the economic downturn. Today, Where We Live - We’ll talk to Willimantic residents about their vision for the city’s future. We’ll explore the thriving arts scene, check in with local businesses and revisit the impact of addiction and recovery on this evolving Connecticut city.
Willimantic Whitewater Partnership's proposal
Willimantic Whitewater Partnership's proposal for Willimantic should be the focal point for the revitalization of Willimantic. Upon completion, it will provide cultural, environmental and economic benefits. Willimantic Whitewater Partnership has already put the community on the map. Recently, AMCOutdoors Magazine published a major article about our proposal for a whitewater park, including its environmental, habitat and economic promise. Having a national trail system contiguous to a whitewater park and recreation hub, arts amenities, as well as the CT Eastern Railroad Museum and other historical sites, adjacent to downtown, will drive downtown revitalization.
Dan Mullins, President
Willimantic Whitewater Partnership, Inc.