Dec. 14, 2006 - Y Sold

going, going...SOLD!!

While debate over the future home of the Westport Weston Family Y continues, the fate of the present site appears to have been resolved.  This week, it was announced that the downtown Y buildings were sold to Bedford Square Associates LLC, for more than $20 million.  The Y will continue to occupy the buildings for the next 3-5 years.  After that, the developers have promised an exciting renovation, comprising the 3 R's...retail, residential and restaurant.  The facade of the Bedford building will be kept intact but the Weeks building, in the rear, will be torn down.

Edward Thomas Bedford founded the Y, in downtown Westport, in 1923.  For the past 83 years, the Bedford building has remained a Westport landmark, at the corner of the Post Road and Main Street.  Controversy continues, over moving the Y out of its downtown location.  The Y is planning to build its new facility, on property it owns, at Camp Mahackeno.  The latest hurdle to the project is getting approval from the Conservation Commission.  The third public hearing was held this week, with neighbors and other Westport residents continuing to voice concern over the size of the proposed septic system and the possible environmental impact, especially if the system should fail or not operate as expected.  Public hearings continue on January 22.

To learn more about the Westport Weston family Y, go to http://www.westportymca.org