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Date: 1/11/2024
WESTFIELD — The Westfield Redevelopment Authority wants the public’s help in deciding the name of the new plaza being built on Elm Street. Residents have until Jan. 19 to answer an online poll, giving them a choice between three WRA-suggested names or to promote one of their own.
Located next to the Olver Transit Pavilion, the plaza consists of green space, a stage, and 78 new parking spaces. The property had been a vacant lot for 37 years, after J.J. Newberry’s Department Store burned down in 1986. After years of trying to redevelop it as commercial space, the city began turning it into a new public gathering space in fall 2021. Construction, funded by $1.1 million in federal grant funds, is now nearly complete.
The three WRA-suggested names are “Elm Street Plaza,” “Gas Light Plaza” and “Newberry Square.” Miller said that, of the 700 or so responses received so far, over 60% have voted for “Newberry Square.”
Residents have suggested names with personal or historical significance. They have submitted “sarcastic, non-serious” names, as well, Miller said.
The poll also asks residents for ideas on how to use the space. Miller said the stage is sized to accommodate medium-sized concerts. He anticipates the plaza will host food truck festivals, art walks, public markets and other such events that bring people downtown and celebrate the Westfield community.
In a statement, Mayor Michael McCabe said he was “greatly appreciative of the cooperation we have received from the WRA as we work to implement a vision where this space contributes significantly to the vitality of Downtown Westfield.”
He added, “for this vision to be realized, beyond the naming, we truly want the Westfield public to become involved in programming this space, so please come with all your ideas as to how we can best utilize this area to bring people to Elm Street.”
An opening ceremony for the plaza is planned for next spring.
Residents can vote at bit.ly/rp25hz, or by telephone at 413-572-6244. Residents can also vote in person during business hours at the Community Development office in Room 300 of City Hall, 59 Court St., Westfield.