STAMFORDDOWNTOWN
ANNUAL REPORT2011/2012
TWENTY YEARS
to the vitality. A grant program brought three quality retailers to the Downtown four years ago. A new such program is underway now, and a master goldsmith will open on Bedford Street this summer. Restaurant Weeks bring many thou-sands of diners to participating restau-rants where 14,725 meals were served this past February.
The strength of the District’s economic development program has prevented the blight of urban sprawl in Stamford. Over the course of 20 years, the DSSD has strongly supported the city’s 1984 Master Plan, which mandates the Downtown as the densest part of the city and the site for hotels, boutique and destination retail and entertainment. To emphasize the latter, the DSSD has been instrumental in initiating, facilitating or supporting the following critical initiatives: a 535 space garage built by the URC; Zoning regulations which prevent large format retailers from locating anywhere but the Downtown; additional on-street parking for use by downtown patrons while keeping parking rates low; elimination of the 1,500 feet barrier for both liquor-serving restaurants and package stores; elimination of Zoning regulations that gave additional density to obsolete uses such as raised public plazas, while substituting regulations giving additional density to ground floor retail, pedestrian connections, Mill River Greenbelt and shared parking. Addition-ally, the DSSD was instrumental in the elimination of “adult retail uses,” estab-lishing an Architectural Review Design District for the Downtown, reconfiguring Spring Street into a two-way road to enable enhanced automobile access to activate the neighborhood, creation of Bedford Street as a historic district, easing the city’s regulations for outdoor dining, reducing burdensome residential parking requirements, eliminating the zoning barriers which inhibited building movie theatres. Furthermore, the DSSD has worked to provide an appropriate density balance in neighborhoods adjacent to the downtown, so that multiple areas of the city can thrive.
Today, Stamford Downtown is the site of many award-winning events produced by the DSSD. Stars such as the Beach
Boys, Blues Traveler, Hootie and the Blowfish and Sugar Ray have graced the Alive@Five Stage, bringing an average of 7,000 people downtown each Thursday night and generating $3,000,000+/- of revenue to area businesses. Jazz Up July, only in its second year, has featured such stars as Neil Sedaka, Roberta Flack and this summer, Al Jarreau. The UBS Parade Spectacular is the largest parade in Connecticut and the second largest helium balloon parade in the country, attracting 250,000 patrons. Rappelling Santa has been televised on national TV featuring guest star stunt-men, Brian Cashman and Rick Reich-muth. Thousands visit the downtown each summer to enjoy the outdoor sculpture program, which has boasted nationally renowned artists such as Botero, Henry Moore, Schnabel, Fischl and Oldenburg. Artfully decorated, sculpted and painted cows, elephants, cats, dogs, automobiles and giraffes have also adorned the streets as part of the sculpture exhibit. This summer, magnificently painted horses will be on display throughout the Downtown.
A summary of a twenty-year journey would be incomplete without thanking the hundreds of sponsors who give so generously to support downtown programs, the thousands of volunteers who help annually at events, the dozens of streetscape gardeners who beautify our environment and the Friends of the Downtown who spearhead the program to acquire outdoor art (3 significant pieces on display in downtown parks) and help defray the costs of the yearly sculpture exhibit. Special recognition is given to city personnel who have worked tirelessly on Downtown programs; none of which would happen without backing from the very top. For 14 years, Mayor Dan Malloy (now the Governor) gave support and encouragement to our efforts. Our current Mayor, Mike Pavia, has been an enthusiastic proponent of DSSD events and programs.
In closing, while we salute great progress, we know that much still remains to be accomplished. Better pedestrian connections throughout the Downtown are essential. The Transpor-
tation Center and its environs are in need of major work. Quality residential development must be encouraged on lower Summer St., Washington Blvd., and Atlantic St. properties, as well as on the remaining vacant Downtown parcels. Support must be given to the Innovation Center, now located at a beautifully renovated Old Town Hall. Additionally, the comprehensive Downtown Master Plan completed in 2011 must be folded into the city’s new Master Plan, soon to be created. Finally, the DSSD must continue to ensure that the Downtown remains the heart of the city – the center of office, retail, dining entertainment, higher education and residential development.
How the years do fly! The DSSD celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year and what a perfect time to look back and assess the past and
look forward to plan the future. A quick look backward to 1992 uncovers a Downtown perceived as dangerous and dirty, with few pedestrians after 5pm, where retail store window-grates rolled down at dusk creating a feeling of desolation and darkness. Class A office rents were at a low of $21 per sf. and retail availability was at 22 percent. There were only 5 movie screens, few quality restaurants, no outdoor cafes and a dimin-ished residential market, with only one new high-end condo development, which was struggling for buyers. When the Downtown property owners voted overwhelmingly to establish a business improvement district in 1992, they opted to use their own tax dollars to fund an organization (the Stamford Downtown Special Services District) dedicated to downtown revitalization.
Stamford has been transformed by two decades of vision, planning, vigilance and investment. While the Downtown’s land mass is less than 1 percent of the city’s total acreage, it commands 8.3 percent of the Grand List, with a whopping value of two billion dollars, a growth of 20 percent just in the last 7 years, despite the recent reces-sion. A dynamic sense of place has been created where many thousands of people live, work, shop, are educated and enjoy the arts. Pedestrians have embraced the downtown in large numbers, because they now live here (5,407 housing units with another 712 in construction or approved, as opposed to 3,285 in 1992), diners abound, eating al fresco on dozens of outdoor patios in 85 diverse restaurants (only 40 in 1992). Stamford Downtown is now the home to major multinational financial institutions, which have established their North American headquarters in our city (RBS and UBS with a combined workforce of over 6,000 employees.) NBCUniversal is
producing 3 television programs at the Rich Forum, which leverages millions of dollars into the city’s economy. The art scene is growing: new galleries have opened, outdoor sculpture exhibits and craft shows are part of the DSSD’s yearly programming menu and the Stamford Center for the Arts has emerged from Chapter 11 and is planning a solid menu of programs for the coming years.
During the past two decades, the DSSD has initiated improvements to enhance the environment, create a sense of place through an award-winning panorama of events and targeted retail programs and has facilitated economic development initiatives, which have made the downtown strong and have prevented the urban sprawl which has destroyed the value of many downtowns in our country.
The DSSD manages a comprehensive outdoor maintenance program. Twenty years ago there was nothing. Today, there is daily street cleaning, regular ambassador street patrols and a landscaping program, which ensures four dramatic seasonal plantings with 168 lush flower-filled hanging baskets adorning the lampposts. DSSD Gardeners plant and care for a large panoply of downtown gardens, parks, street planters and median dividers. DSSD workers plow the sidewalks during and after snowstorms, facilitating pedestrian access to shops and restaurants. The Downtown is brightened with thousands of dramatic lights during the holidays. And, Bedford Street is turned into a winter wonderland during December through the artful window decorating skill of volunteer garden clubs and florists.
The office and retail markets remain relatively strong, despite a weak economy. Class A office space in the Downtown is listed and leased at anywhere between $35 and $50 per sf. (Compared to an average of $21 per sf twenty years ago.) The direct Class A office space availability in the District is at a low of 13.2 percent as opposed to a city-wide average of 21.7 percent. If you factor sublease availability, the latter rate goes up to 18.2 percent, still better than the city’s overall rate of 26.2 percent. Down-town’s retail market, 1,754,922sf strong, has an occupancy rate of 91 percent as opposed to 78 percent twenty years ago. Many DSSD retail initiatives have contributed
2 3Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
A TWENTY YEAR RETROSPECTIVE
Stephen J. Hoffman Chairman
Sandy Goldstein President
To foster the Downtown’s economic growth through a strong retail recruitment and retention program.
To ensure the appropriate economic development of Stamford Downtown through comprehensive strategic urban planning and advocacy.
To plan, initiate and manage enhanced operational services, which improve the Downtown’s outdoor environment.
To attract people to the Downtown through targeted signature events and marketing programs.
GOALS:
The vision for Stamford Downtown is that of a 24-hour/seven day a week center for living, working, shopping, dining, education, culture and entertainment.
VISION:
The Downtown Special Services District is responsible for creating, managing and promoting a quality environment for people, which enhances the economic vitality of the Downtown.
MISSION:
The creation of a vibrant retail environment is at the core of Stamford Downtown’s mission. This
year, recruitment efforts were enhanced by reactivating the Retail Advancement Grant Program, as well as several other initiatives.
2011/12 Accomplishments:
Retail Advancement Grant Program: The Retail Advance-ment Grant Program provides grants up to $50,000 (plus a matching landlord contribution) for product retailers who execute a 5 year lease within Stamford Downtown (restaurants and
service-oriented businesses are ineligible). Three strong candidates applied and were interviewed by the Retail Committee to date. As a result, Russ Hollander, a master goldsmith, in
business for 30 years, has signed a lease at 154 Bedford Street. Scheduled to open in summer of 2012, this high-end jewelry store will be a welcome complement to Bedford Street businesses. New retailers are encouraged to apply for this grant.
Commercial Broker Quarterly Newsletter: In an effort to heighten the awareness of Stamford Downtown’s activities, the newsletter, Real Estate Update from Stamford Downtown, was created. It is sent to over 100 real estate brokers in both Fairfield and Westchester Counties.
Scouting efforts: Scouting different towns for retail prospects remains an important initiative of the Retail Department, as is participation in the International Council of Shopping Center’s retailer’s trade show in Hartford, an excellent place to meet retail prospects and retail brokers.
On the Retail retentionfront…
A Holiday Salute in Stamford Downtown: Stamford Downtown hosted its second annual holiday decorating contest to transform Bedford Street into a “winter wonderland.” Prominent florists and nurseries generously donated their decorations and labor to professionally adorn seven Bedford Street storefronts. Participants included: Eden Farms Nursery & Garden Center, Stamford Florist, Springdale Florist, Exquisite Environments Garden Center, Eastern Land Management as well as Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses and McArdle’s Florist and Garden Center from Greenwich.
2012 DSSD Demographic Profile: Stamford Downtown continues to update and distribute a 20-page document highlighting the latest statistics regarding population growth and the Downtown’s residential, office and
Cov
er Il
lust
rati
on
by
Mic
hae
l A. L
om
bar
do,
Cre
ativ
e In
sig
ht,
LLC
201
1
Sponsored by:
retail markets. The Demographic Profile is updated quarterly and is available on-line: a resource tool for property owners, real estate brokers and prospective business owners interested in locating to Stamford Downtown.
DSSD’s Downtowners Events: This year Stamford Downtown continued to host the Downtowners events, at the newest Downtown developments, including stylish rooftops and luxury amenity rooms. Designed for those “who live and work in Stamford Downtown,” this meet and mingle social event, attracts 150± people, while spotlighting both new and existing businesses.
Stamford Tables: Membership in Stamford Tables grew by 20% in 2011/12 with new members: Bar Rosso, Rodizio Grill, Hudson Grille and Bar Taco. Stamford Tables hosted Summer & Winter Restau-rant Weeks, in addition to publish-ing a 2012 Stamford Tables
Concierge Book spotlighting each of the restaurants in a two-page spread. This publication is distributed to area hotels and Stamford Downtown residential complexes.
Stamford Tables Restaurant Weeks were held during the last two weeks of August, and from February 26th through March 11th. A record number of 30 restaurants participated in this year’s campaign, resulting in 14,725+ served lunches and dinners. The Avon Theatre offered Restaurant Week patrons $4.50 popcorn vouchers. The Stamford Hospital reintroduced their Kids’ Fans 5-2-1-0 program, designed to promote nutrition and fitness in children.
2012/13 Goals:
Government Center Neigh-borhood: The Government Center neighborhood will be enhanced by a plan to put artist’s studios in the retail vacancies
along this important Washington Boulevard corridor leading to the Transit Center.
Stamford Tables: Winter & Summer Restaurant Weeks will continue with a focus on targeting new participants and sponsors. An updated 2012 Concierge Book will feature two-page spreads on 40 Stamford Tables restaurants and will be distributed to 40 area hotels and apartment complexes in Stamford and neighboring communities.
1. The Bridal Suite “Best of Show” Holiday Salute 2011
2. Stamford Tables’ Concierge Book
3. Board Visit to Governor’s Mansion
4. Avon Theatre “Popular Vote” Holiday Salute 2011
RETAIL RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION
4 5Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
To foster Stamford Downtown’s economic growth through a strong retail recruitment and retention program.
GOAL:
1 2 3 4
2012/13 Goals:
City Master Plan: In the upcoming year, the Stamford Planning Board will hire a consul-tant to create, with community input, a new citywide Master Plan. The DSSD will closely monitor all phases of the project and play an integral role in development of the downtown portion.
New Development Oversight: The DSSD will continue to monitor emerging development proposals both in the Downtown and in the adjacent community through a comprehensive review and analysis process.
Transportation: Active engage-ment in proposals for a new Transportation Center garage as well as city and state plans to improve access, circulation and infrastructure in and around the complex.
.
The DSSD is the watchdog for appropriate Down-town development, balancing the challenge
of intense development with environmental and quality of life objectives. Using Stamford’s Master Plan as a guide, the District has helped foster the development of a Downtown with a full array of retail, office, cultural, recreation and residential uses.
2011/12 Accomplishments:
This past year, in an effort to incentivize dense, high rise residential development, the DSSD was the applicant for a Zoning regulation text change that would enable use of a reduced parking ratio of 1:1, under Special Excep-tion. The change was approved at the end of March and by the first week of April a developer em-ployed it in an application for an urban infill residential project. The DSSD Economic Development Committee reviewed and analyzed several development proposals including plans for: Harbor Point, Park Square West and infill
residential proposals on Bank Street and Summer Street. DSSD positions were developed for each of these projects and publicly communicated to appropriate city boards and committees.
Old Town Hall: Work on Old Town Hall’s renovation was completed, as was an extraordi-nary hardscape and landscape makeover of adjacent Heritage Park. The DSSD is a designated member of the Old Town Hall Redevelopment Agency, which has just leased most of the building to the new Stamford Innovation Center.
Boards And Commissions: DSSD staff sits on the boards of numerous significant public agencies and corporations including: Stamford Center for the Arts, Mill River Collaborative, Ferguson Library, Stamford Chamber of Commerce, Stamford Partnership, Stamford EMS, Tully Health Center Community Board and Stamford Police Foundation.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
6 7Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
1. Welcome Garden in Veteran’s Park
2. Landmark Building
3. Stamford Downtown Aerial View
4. Trump Parc
To ensure the appropriate economic development of Stamford Downtown through comprehensive planning and advocacy.
GOAL:
1 3 4
2
Stamford Downtown has a strong and focused calendar of events featuring the following: a
summer-long outdoor sculpture exhibit, eleven outdoor summer concerts, a farmers’ market, an arts & crafts show, the second largest helium balloon parade in the country as well as a star studded Santa rappel down Landmark Square, coupled with a Christmas tree lighting.
The events draw renowned artists, musicians and sponsors, while successfully attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators annually, who ultimate-ly shop, dine and enjoy all the Downtown has to offer.
2011/12 Accomplishments:
Art In Public Places, Sculpture Exhibit: During summer 2011, Stamford Downtown hosted “Wit and Whimsy,” a sculpture exhibit that featured 40 impressive works of art.
Battle Of The Bands: In conjunction with 95.9 The Fox, Stamford Downtown continued its very successful band competition (May 2011) at venues throughout Stamford Downtown. Winners competed at the Bedford Street Promenade; finalists won opening slots at Alive@Five.
Bedford Street Promenade: This second year event on Bedford
Street was held on three Satur-days in June and included live music from the Battle of the Bands. The event brought foot traffic and revenue to the busi-nesses on Bedford Street, which had extended sidewalk cafés.
Big Apple Circus: Produced two successful circus-related fundrais-ing events in conjunction with Mill River Collaborative.
Alive@Five: Successfully produced seven concerts opening with Third Eye Blind and closing with the B52’s. Keeping public safety in mind, new rules for the front gate and surrounding perimeter were initiated.
Jazz Up July: Launched a new event to replace Pops in the Park. The premiere season included successful concerts starring Roberta Flack and John Tesh.
UBS Parade Spectacular: The 2011 parade hosted three grand marshals Laura Linney, Gabi Sidebe and John Benjamin Hickey, four new balloons, plus a spec-tacular trampoline float making last year’s parade an incredible way to celebrate Thanksgiving.
Heights & Lights: Celebrity rappeller, Brian Cashman, GM of the NY Yankees, just couldn’t resist playing a Christmas elf again, but this time he added to the follies by challenging Bobby Valentine, GM of the Red Sox to rappel with him in 2012. Bobby V indicated that he is up for the challenge!
Street Banner Program Assembled a committee of marketing executives to review design submissions for a new banner campaign. Led the project to completion through design, production and installation. A total of 360 “This is the Place” banners have been installed throughout Stamford Downtown.
2012/13 Goals:
Downtown Events: To continue to enhance the district’s program of signature events while insuring that each event leverages economic benefits for Downtown businesses.
Art In Public Places, Horsin’ Around Stamford Downtown, Sculpture Exhibit: To produce a sculpture exhibit featuring 40 fiberglass sculptures of horses painted and adorned by local artists. A portion of the proceeds of the auction will benefit the Ferguson Library.
French Market: To add new vendors to the market to give the market wider appeal.
Alive@Five: To produce a concert series featuring seven national headliners including Los Lonely Boys and Foreigner.
Jazz Up July: To build on the success of last year’s premiere Jazz Up July series, starring greats from the Jazz world including Al Jarreau and Spyro Gyra.
Arts & Crafts On Bedford: This year’s arts and crafts show will be produced by the DSSD, thus ensuring high quality, engaging crafters.
EVENTS & MARKETING
8 9Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
1. Arts & Crafts on Bedford
2. Street Banner Program
3. UBS Parade Spectacular
4. Alive@Five
5. Horse of Another Color by James Scinto
6. Brian Cashman rapelling at Heights & Lights
To attract people to the Downtown through comprehensive signature events and marketing programs.
GOAL:
1 2 3 4 6
5
A TIMELINE FROM 1992–2012
10 11
4�Burlington Coat Factory Opens
4�Target Opens
4�Avon Theatre Restoration Completed
4�Donation of Gossip, Martha Pettigrew Sculpture to City by Friends of Stamford Downtown
4�Downtown Directional Signs Installed
4�Crown Landmark Movie Theatre Expansion Completed
4�Clean Team & Green Machines Program Begins
4�Donation of Uninvited Advice, J. Seward Johnson Sculpture to City by Friends of Stamford Downtown
4�Retail Advancement Program Launched
4�Summer Place Parking Garage Opens
4�Landmark 7 Retail Pavilion Completed
4�Old Town Hall Exterior Renovation Begins
4�Clark Street & Bell Street Garage Improvements
4�Broad Street Median Cut Enhances Access to Bedford Street Garage
4�Bedford Street Design Plan Initiated
4�UConn Campus in Stamford Downtown Completed
4�Mill River Restoration Begins
4�Alive@Five Starred Blues Traveler with Record Crowds
4�Stamford Downtown Hosted Largest J. Seward Johnson Exhibit in Nation
4�Chaired & Hosted Stamford 2000
4�Nightlife Safety Plan Created
4�CowParade 2000 Ushers in Era of Outdoor Folk Art Exhibits
4�1 Million People Attend Downtown Theaters
4�8 Million People Shop at Stamford Town Center
4�Second DSSD Parking Master Plan
4�First Arts & Crafts Show
4�Downtown Master Plan Completed
4�Hotel Zero Degrees Opens
4�First Bandapalooza Battle of the Bands
4�Fernando Alvarez Art Gallery Opens
4�Spring Street Becomes Two Directional
4�Holiday Salute Program Launched
4�Broad Street South Curbside Parking Enhancement
4�Retail Advancement Grant Reinstated
4�1:1 Parking Ratio Zoning Regulation Enacted for Residential Development
4�This is the Place! Banner Campaign
4�First Grand Summer Night
4�First Annual Dinner & Report
4�First Downtown Directory
4�First DSSD Newsletter
4�First DSSD Parking Master Plan
4�First Holiday Tree Lighting
4�First Retail Master Plan, Rodgers & McCauley
4�First Sidewalk Cleaning Program Established
�
4�Palace Theatre Renovation Completed
4�Employee Discount Parking Program Begins
4�Historic District Boundary Expansion
4�Kiwanis Park Renovation Completed
�
4�First Chefs Festival
4�Donation of Granite Base by Friends of Stamford Downtown for Seated Lincoln Sculpture
4�Big Box Zoning Initiative
4�First Downtown Holiday Street Lighting Program
4�Broad Street Corridor Plan Created
�
4�First Pops in The Park
4�Marriott Courtyard Hotel Opens
4�Reduction of Package Store Radius
4�Sidewalk Snow Removal Program Established
4�Third DSSD Parking Master Plan Completed
4�Architectural Review Design District Established
4�Received IDA Achievement Award for Signal Box Art Program
Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
�
4�First Giant Helium Balloon Parade
4�Ambassador Program Established
4�Amenities Bonus Zoning Initiative
4�Avalon Grove Completed
4�Columbus Park Renovation
4�Crown Majestic Movie Theatre Opens
4�First Alive@Five Concert
4�First DSSD Website
4�Signal Box Art Program Begins
4�Stamford Downtown
Launches Blog
4�The Classic Converted to Condominiums
4�Stamford Town Center Expansion and Redesign Completed
�
4�UBS Opens
4�Avalon Corners Opens
4�Starbucks Opens at the Ferguson Library
4�Traffic Calming Initiative Begins
4�Administration of Mayor’s Neighborhood Grant
4�Trump Parc Completed
4�Old Town Hall Exterior Renovation Completed
4�RBS Opens in Stamford Downtown
4�NBCUniversal Leased Stamford Media Center
4�Park Square West Completed
4�Avalon Towers Completed
4�First Jazz Up July
4�Bedford Street Sidewalk Renovation Completed
4�The BLVD Completed
4�Franklin Street Works Art Gallery Opens
4�Old Town Hall Interior Renovation Completed
4�Property Owners Vote Overwhelmingly to Start DSSD
4�Diagonal Parking Increases Bedford Street Parking
4�First Downtown Banner Program
4�Adult Retail Zoning Initiative
4�Archstone on Bedford Street Completed
4�Donation of Mommy’s Shoes, Prince Monyo Milhailescu-Nasturel Sculpture to City by Friends of Stamford Downtown
1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
12Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
4�First Outdoor Café
4�First Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit
4�Streetscape Task Force Established
4�First DSSD Rappelling Santa
4 Downtown Development
4 DSSD Programs
4 DSSD Economic Development Initiatives
4 Downtown Events produced by DSSD
KEY TO TIMELINE
STAMFORDDOWNTOWN
CELEBRATING
TWENTY YEARS
The District operates five major programs to address the Downtown experience: a Clean Team
to control sidewalk, park and curbside litter 7-days a week; Downtown Ambassadors to provide a secure environment 200 patrol-hours, 6-days a week; a Green Team to enrich the streets and parks with seasonal plantings; Streetscape Operations to interface with city operations and property owners on all Downtown maintenance issues; and the Sidewalk Snow Removal program to enhance the pedestrian experi-ence in the winter. All ensure well-maintained public spaces and parks, which attract people, fosters retail development, increases property values, and creates a sense of place.
2011/12 Accomplishments:
Stamford Downtown Directory: Published the annual Downtown Directory and distrib-uted 38,500 copies containing paid advertising, detailed free listings for 225 Downtown businesses and 16 pages of valuable community information.
Stamford Downtown Dining Guide: Produced a sponsor-funded annual Dining Guide to promote the 78 Downtown restaurants.
Contract Negotiation: Negoti-ated favorable labor contracts for Downtown Ambassador and Sidewalk Cleaning programs.
Ambassador Program Monitoring: An electronic route verification system is carefully monitored to ensure consistent, reliable and efficient Downtown Ambassador patrols.
Graffiti Documentation & Removal: Monitored all incidenc-es of Downtown graffiti, following up with photo documentation, police reporting and immediate removal, resulting in steadily decreasing graffiti incidents.
Design Review: Worked with Zoning Enforcement to ensure enforcement of and adherence to Downtown Design Guidelines.
23 Tons of trash collected per
year by the Stamford Downtown
Clean Team.
2,100 Tons of snow removed
from downtown streets (during
snowy winters).
40,000 Plants and bulbs are
planted each year by 3 dozen
streetscape volunteers.
10,400 Miles per year covered
by Ambassadors, more than
2 round trips to Los Angeles.
The DSSD produces the
state’s largest outdoor sculpture
exhibit in Stamford Downtown
each summer.
360,000 +/- People per year
attend Stamford Downtown events.
37,697 Record number of
lunches and dinners served
at Stamford Downtown
Restaurant Weeks.
200 Corporate and community
businesses partner with
Stamford Downtown.
3 Million people reached per
year with Stamford Downtown’s
promotional efforts for events.
10,000 People per week visit
the Ferguson Library in
Stamford Downtown.
In 2012, 51.3 percent of
DSSD’s operating budget is
funded by sponsorships
and donations.
Holiday Light Program: Established a new, dramatic holiday lighting plan for Columbus Park.
Stamford Circus: Maintained and managed a special, short-term website and managed all ticket sales and fulfillment for the Stamford Circus fundraiser.
Performance Augmentation: Monitored and maintained a route verification system for the Down-town Clean Team to ensure optimum performance and effectiveness.
2012/13 Goals:
New Stamford Downtown Website: Manage the develop-ment of a new Stamford Down-town website and associated mobile app. www.stamford-down-town.com
Veterans’ Park Improve-ments: Add programs to improve conditions and the perception of Veterans’ Park.
DSSD/Mill River Joint Fund-raiser: Design and operate a website to facilitate fundraising efforts for the Stamford Downtown and the Mill River Collaborative.
2012/2013 Directory: In-house publication and distribution of 38,500 Downtown Directories on a positive cash flow basis.
Design Review: Work with Zoning Enforcement to ensure enforcement and adherence to Design Guidelines.
CLEAN, SAFE & GREEN
14 15Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
To plan, initiate and manage enhanced operational services, which improve Downtown’s physical environment.
GOAL:
1 2
1. Latham Park
2. The Clean Team: Left to right: Lester Milian, Hugo Enriquez, Vincente Santos
3. Ambassadors: Left to right: William Gilson, Magdalia Rivera, Brian Leahy, Gilbert Reyes, Robert Cornell, Garry Walker
3
13 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
DO YOU KNOW?
2
40
7
0
1
2,011
0
1,366
431
6 Million
$328 Million
4
85
18
12
4
5,955
1
1,901
600
7.5 Million
$1.9 Billion
Major Hotels
Restaurants & Clubs
Movie Screens
Signature Events
Hip Galleries
Residential Units
Universities
Public Garage Parking Spaces
Curbside Parking Spaces
Office Space
Downtown Grand List
THEN (1992) NOW (2012)
Avon Theatre Film Center
Bildner Capital Corp.
Building & Land Technology
Emmett & Glander, Attorneys at Law
First County Bank
Frank Mercede & Sons
Gibraltar Management Co., Inc.
Heyman Properties
Hoffman Investment Partners
Marchetti Management
Marlo Associates
Nexvue
Nizzardo Holding LLC
People’s United Bank
Purdue Pharma L.P.
RBS
Reckson, A Division of SL Green
RFR Realty, LLC
RMS Companies, LLC
Saks Fifth Avenue
Seaboard Properties, Inc.
Silver Golub & Teitell, LLP
Stamford Town Center
Steven Wise Associates, LLC
UBS
United Realty of Con-necticut, Inc.
84 Park
Aria Restaurant
Barcelona Restau-rant & Wine Bar
Bar Rosso
bartaco
Bar Q
Black Bear Saloon
Boca
Bobby Valentine’s Sports Gallery Café
Bradford’s Grill & Tavern
The Brick House Bar & Grill
BUtterfield 8 Restaurant & Lounge
The Capital Grille
Capriccio Café
California Pizza Kitchen
Chez Jean-Pierre Bistro & Wine Bar
Chinese Mirch
Columbus Park Trattoria
Curley’s Diner
Emme of Capri
EOS Greek Cuisine
Ferrante
Fin II Japanese Restaurant
Grand
Jenna Marie’s Deli
Kona Grill
Kotobuki Japanese Restaurant
Kujaku Japanese Restaurant
Layla’s Falafel
Lola’s Mexican Kitchen
Lucky’s Classic Burger & Malt Shop
Lucky Break
Mitchell’s Fish Market
Morton’s, The Steakhouse
napa & co.
The Palms
Patrizia’s of Stamford
P.F. Chang’s China Bistro
Picante Fresh
Quattro Pazzi
Remo’s Brick Oven Pizza Company
Riviera Maya Authentic Mexican Cuisine
Rodizio Grill, The Brazilian Steakhouse
Sam’s American Bistro at the Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa
SBC Restaurant & Brewery
Station Eats
Sundance Café & Wine Bar
Tappo
Tengda Asian Bistro
Tiernan’s Bar & Restaurant
Tigin Irish Pub & Restaurant
Volta Gelateria Creparia
ZAZA Italian Gastrobar
Bartlett Arboretum
Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church
CTE’s Lathon Wider Community Center
Curtain Call
The Ferguson Library
First Congregational Church
Mill River Collaborative
Shippan Point Garden Club
Stamford Center for the Arts
Stamford Chamber of Commerce
Stamford Emergency Medical Services
Stamford Garden Club
Stamford Museum & Nature Center
Stamford Symphony Orchestra
Stamford Volunteer Fire Dept.
Stamford Youth Founda-tion
United Way of Stamford
University of Connecticut
Urban Redevelopment Commission
The DSSD is funded primarily by 128 property owners who pay an annual fee to the District
based on their property assess-ments. The formula was adopted in 1992 when the District was incorporated and subsequently amended in 1998 to reflect the impact of re-evaluation. In addition to assessments, a significant portion of the DSSD’s program income is derived through sponsorships.
Tax & Assessment Data: The Downtown Grand List is analyzed and maintained by DSSD’s Vice President of Operations. Evalua-tions, forecasts and strategies for optimizing collections are derived from the analysis.
City Funding Requests: Detailed reports for the Mayor, Board of Finance and Board of Representatives are generated for city funding requests.
51.3% Sponsorships/Revenue Generation
0.2% Interest
48.5% Assessments
51.0% Marketing & Event Promotion
18.1% General Administration
11.6% Retail & Economic Development
19.3% Operations, Clean, Safe & Green
Where The Money Comes From:
Where The Money Goes:
FUNDING THE DISTRICT
FUNDING & SUPPORT
16 17Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
Because of the DSSD’s strong sponsorship and revenue-generating programs, for every $1 of assessment paid by a property owner $2.06 is returned in services and programs.
Many District property owners voluntarily supported our 2011– 2012 initiatives through donations and in-kind sponsorships, which are in addition to their tax assessment:
Many thanks to the generosity of our Downtown restaurant and nightclub owners, whose donations, participation & gift certifi-cates make numerous patrons of the Downtown very happy:
The following non-profit organizations support District initiatives through monetary or in-kind partnerships:
Who Pays What:• Top 5 property owners pay 54% of total program cost averaging
$189,155 each• Top 10 property owners pay 74% of total program cost averaging
$129,889 each• Smallest Annual Assessment $152• Largest Annual Assessment $246,281• Average Atlantic Street assessment is $4,307• Average Bank Street assessment is $1,674• Average Bedford Street assessment is $1,509• Average Broad Street assessment is $2,626• Average Main Street assessment is $1,627• Average Summer Street assessment is $3,876• Average Washington Boulevard assessment is $14,962
Mayor Michael A. Pavia and his Team of Dedicated Workers from the City of Stamford
A. Vitti Construction
Bill Ackley
The Advocate
Affinion Group
Agabhumi, The Best of Bali
Agora Spa at the Stamford Marriott
AlliedBarton Security Services
Jim Anderson
Sharon Anderson
Sarah Arnold
The Ashforth Company
Ashforth Management Services
Bank of America
Bartlett Tree Experts
Mike Berkoff
BevMax
Board of Finance, City of Stamford
Board of Representa-tives, City of Stamford
Bobby Valentine’s Sports Academy
Bull’s Head Pet Hospital
Chief Fire Marshall Barry Callahan
Bob Callahan Design
The Bridal Suite
Broadway Kitchens & Baths of CT
Camp Bow Wow
The Campus and 1937 West Main
Care of Trees
Krissy Carboni
Carolle
Brian Cashman
Orazio Cerelli
Tom Chukas
City Carting
City of Stamford Health Dept.
City of Stamford Operations Dept.
Les Cohn
Kathyrne Colatrella
Dan Colleluori
Conair Corporation
Dennis Conley
Connecticut Film Center
Connecticut Light & Power Company
Fire Chief Antonio Conte
Valerie Cooper
County TV and Appliance of Stamford
Courtyard by Marriott Stamford
Cox Media Group
Crystal Rock
CT Cigar Company
CT Transit
Curtain Call
Mike Cusato
Ron D’Amico
Mark Delgado
Robert DeLuca
Dr. Bruce Lee Denker, DDS
Charles DeSalvo
Tommy DeSalvo
Sgt. Ryan Devanney
Dichello Distributors
Monsignor DiGiovanni
DiMare Pastry Shop
Downtown Golf
Carol Duggan
E. Gaynor Brennan Golf Course
Eastern Land Management
Edens Farms Nursery & Garden Center
Justin Einhorn
Lisa Eisenman-Salley
Wendy Epstein
Exquisite Environments Garden Center
Fairway Market
Charles Fazzino
Frank Fedele
Fernando Luis Alvarez Gallery
First Niagara
GB Parking
GE Asset Management
Bill Gerardi
John Gill
Bob Goldstein
Jessica Gorman
Grade A ShopRite Cingari Family
Louisa Greene
Grunberger Jewelers
Laurie Guzda
Jack Halpert
Happyhaha Photography
Eileen Heckerling
Heineken USA
John Benjamin Hickey
High Ridge Plaza
Hilton Stamford
Congressman Jim Himes
Liz Hirtenstein
Russ Hollander
Hotel Zero Degrees
Doug Hoyt
Joe Hoyt
HSBC
The Insurance Exchange
Michael Jacopino
Lavrel Johnson
Juner William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty
Renee Kahn
Alan Kalter
Craig Ketover & The Memory Studio
King Features Syndicate
Jimmy Koplik & Live Nation
Todd Kosakowski
La Dolce Vita
Patricia Lamouthe
Chris Larsen
Eric Larsen
Rich Levitt
Betsy Lewis
Laura Linney
Lisa Lockwood
Rick Lockwood
Lord & Taylor
Martha Mahoney
Maiden Lane Company
Malkin Properties
Governor Dannel Malloy
Michael Marchetti
Ron Markey
McArdle’s Florist & Garden Center
Brad Meling
Mercedes Benz of Greenwich
John Michelson
Irwin Milch
Ruth Miner
MINI of Fairfield County
Moffly Publications
Lt. Nick Montagnese
Paul Montanero
Bruce Moore
Bruce Moore Jr.
Denise Morgan
Lina Morielli
Andrew Munce
Kevin Murray
The Museum of Modern Art
Nagi Jewelers
National Realty & Development Corp.
NBCUniversal
Nestlé Waters North America
Newport Mansions
Police Chief Bob Nivakoff
Noble Spa
Noelle Spa
Northeast Utilities
Norwalk Self Storage
Old Greenwich Tennis Academy
Tony Olive
Ernie Orgera
Parade Volunteers & Balloon Handlers
Michael Paulson
107.1 The Peak
Pedigree Ski Shop
Michael Pelazza
Pet Pantry Warehouse
Pitney Bowes
Paulette Pitt
Post Road Entertainment
Danielle Powers
Bill Price
Printech
Krissy Ramsey
Daniel Raymer
Tami Raymer
Redniss & Mead
Rick Reichmuth, FOX News Channel
Riccio Sports
Kahn Riyasat
Captain Trevor Roach
Jim Rockwood
Hannah Rosenberger
June & Rolf Rosenthal
Sherri & Allen Rosenthal
Donald Ryan
Anita Sabato
Elizabeth Sabia
Jim Sabia
Michele Sabia
SAC Capital Advisors, LP
Saks Fifth Avenue
Sam Bridges Nursery & Greenhouses
Mary Schaffer
Roy Schiffer
Steve Schneider
James Scinto
Heather L. Scott
Kevin Segalla
Serpe Brothers
Ellie Sgritta
Salon Shahin
Lauren Sherwood
Jami Sherwood
Shipman & Goodwin LLP
Gabourey Sidibe
Jody Silver
Silvermine Golf Club
Simply Signs
Sir Speedy
Skytop Lodge
Asst. Chief William Smith
Stu Sobel
Jason Soto
Steve Soyland
Merle Spiegel
Spinnaker Real Estate Partners
Springdale Florist
Stamford Catholic Schools
Stamford Dental Spa
Stamford First Bank
Stamford Florist
Stamford Hospital
Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa
Stamford Parks & Recreation Commission
Stamford Planning & Zoning Boards
Stamford Police Department
Stamford Professional Firefighters Local 786
Stamford Public Schools
Stamford Wine & Liquor
Star Wine & Liquor
Stepping Stones Museum
Sterling Farms Golf Course
Strada 18
Summer High Associates
Lauren Tamborino
Sharon Tappe
Jason Teitelbaum
Tully Health Center
U&I Deco
Brian VanOrsdel
Dolly Veit
Darah Velesbir
Vinny Vetrini
Vinylume
Virgin Atlantic Airlines
Joel Wald
WEBE 108
Dan West
Jim West
Meri Wick
Pat Williams
Captain Tom Wuennemann
Yankee Gas
Jim Zielinski
18 19Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
Special thanks to Mayor Michael A. Pavia whose vision of a strong and vital Downtown is essential to the Downtown’s success. Much appreciation is also extended to the Mayor’s team of outstanding city employees who contribute their time, energy and ideas toward making the Downtown the city’s neighborhood.
SPECIAL THANKS:
Thank you Governor Malloy for giving the 2011 DSSD Annual Dinner Key Note Address and for continued support of Downtown programs.
NOTE OF APPRECIATION:
Numerous corporations and individuals, both inside and outside the District, support our work through generous annual donations to programs and events. Included as well, is the generosity of City and State Boards, Commissions and Agencies which, through their funding, recognize the importance of a dynamic downtown:
The District thanks a dedicated group of volunteers, the Friends of Downtown, who annually raise money for art in public spaces:
Joan Fields, Chairperson
Margie Benefico
Karen Denker
Lynne Fife
Ginny Fox
Eileen Heckerling
Elayne Jassey
Phyllis Kapiloff
Harriette Ketover
Nancy Kucera
Alice Lyons
Gail Malloy
Pamela Mullender
Shae Rosenthal
Maddy Shapiro
Karen Sheftell
Jami Sherwood
Claudia Silver
Susie Swirbul
Camille Tomasello
The District thanks a talented group of volunteers led by Marion Glowka, for invaluable assistance in designing, planting and maintaining our beautiful downtown gardens:
Alice Ballin
Jo Ann Benson
Penney Burnett
Gail Calder
Maureen Carson
Carole Del’Aquilla
Suzanne deMilt
Judy DeRose
Lenore DiPalma
Joseph Epstein
Paula Eytel
Libby Fatum
Suzanne Gould
Jeanne Hersh
Rose Hill
Pat Langley
Sharon Larson
Barbara Miller
Ricki Miller
Georgia Norstrand
Pat Pemberton
Betty Roberts
Carol Rooker
Jim Sabia
Ed Selig
Re Telep
Jane Waugh
Sandy Goldstein President
Evan Buechler Operations & Retail Coordinator
Lynne Colatrella Vice President, Events & Marketing
Kate Cook Coordinator, Events & Marketing
Annette Einhorn Director, Events & Marketing
Marion Glowka Streetscape Coordinator
David Klein Manager, Events & Marketing
Maryann Rockwood Executive Administrator
John Ruotolo Vice President, Operations
Cheryl Vukelic Project Manager, Operations
Jacqueline R. Wetenhall Director, Retail Development
Chairman: Stephen J. Hoffman Managing Partner, Hoffman Investment Partners
Vice Chairman: Randall M. Salvatore President, RMS Companies, LLC
Treasurer: Kathryn Emmett, Esq. Emmett & Glander
Secretary: Greg Caggainello Sr. Vice President, Reckson, a Division of SL Green
Laure Aubuchon, Director Office of Economic Development, City of Stamford
Goitom Bellete, President GB Parking
Carl Bildner, President Bildner Capital Corp.
Norman Cole, Acting Land Use Bureau Chief City of Stamford
Jack Condlin, President & CEO Stamford Chamber of Commerce
John J. DiMenna, Jr., President Seaboard Properties, Inc.
Reyno A. Giallongo, Jr., Chairman & CEO First County Bank
Thomas Gissen, President & CEO Stamford Partnership, Inc.
Rachel Goldberg, Interim Director/General Counsel Urban Redevelopment Commission
Robert H. Kahn, President United Realty of Connecticut, Inc.
Robert Karp, President BE Rep Group
Joe Kelly, General Manager Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa
David M. Kooris, Unit Owner Classic Condominiums
Todd M. Kosakowski, Managing Partner Post Road Entertainment
Gregory Lodato, President MarLo Associates, Inc.
Norman Lotstein, Vice President Pyramid Real Estate Group
Michael Marchetti Columbus Park Trattoria
Frank J. Mercede, President & CEO Frank Mercede & Sons, Inc.
Marjan Murray, First Vice President, Tri-State Market Manager People’s United Bank
Courtney A. Nelthropp, Owner Sir Speedy
Maurice A. Nizzardo, President & CEO Nizzardo Holdings, LLC
Michael A. Pavia, Mayor City of Stamford
Greg A. Perna, Managing Partner The Capital Grille Stamford
Andrew Rowley, Head of Communication & Marketing The Royal Bank of Scotland Group
Mary Schaffer napa & co.
Randall M. Skigen, President & Deputy Mayor Stamford Board of Representatives
Merle Spiegel, Senior Director of Corporate Communications Purdue Pharma L.P.
Rocco Veltri, Regional Head of Security, Americas UBS Investment Bank
Tracie Wilson NBCUniversal
Steven Wise Steven Wise Associates, LLC
Friends of Stamford Downtown:
Front row, from left to right: Harriette Ketover, Sandy Goldstein, Joan Fields, Camille Tomasello, Lynne Fife
Second row, from left to right: Elayne Jassey, Nancy Kucera, Shae Rosenthal, Karen Denker, Jami Sherwood
Back row, from left to right: Claudia Silver, Gail Malloy, Margie Benefico
Missing from Photograph: Ginny Fox, Alice Lyons, Eileen Heckerling, Phyllis Kapiloff, Pamela Mullender, Maddy Shapiro, Susie Swirbul, Karen Sheftell
Stamford Downtown Staff
Front left to right: Annette Einhorn, Lynne Colatrella, Sandy Goldstein, John Ruotolo, Jacqueline Wetenhell
Back left to right: Kate Cook, Maryann Rockwood, Evan Buechler, Marion Glowka, David Klein, Cheryl Vukelic
Stamford Downtown Board of Commissioners
Front left to right: Rey Giallongo, Greg Lodato, Marjan Murray, Randy Salvatore, Sandy Goldstein, Steve Hoffman, Kathy Emmett, Michael Marchetti
Back left to right: Andrew Rowley, Laure Aubuchon, Courtney Nelthropp, Joe Kelly, Thomas Gissen, John DiMenna, Robert Kahn, Rachel Goldberg, Carl Bildner, Mary Schaffer, Norman Lotstein, Norman Cole, Merle Spiegel
Missing from photograph: Greg Caggainello, Tom Bellete, Jack Condlin, Robert Karp, David M. Kooris, Todd M. Kosakowski, Frank Mercede, Maurice Nizzardo, Michael Pavia, Greg Perna, Randy Skigen, Rocco Veltri, Tracie Wilson, Steve Wise
Board of Commissioners
Stamford Downtown Staff
20 21Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012 Stamford Downtown Annual Report 2011/2012
STAMFORDDOWNTOWN
ANNUAL REPORT2011/2012
TWENTY YEARS
Stamford Downtown Special Services District Five Landmark Square, Suite 110Stamford, CT 06901Phone: 203-348-5285 Fax: 203-348-6857
Editor: Annette EinhornPhotography: Happyhaha.comDesign: Thinkersdesign