In observance of Labor Day the City Municipal Building and Groton Utilities Offices will be closed Monday September 4th 2023.

UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS:

• September 4 | Labor Day
• September 5 at 7:30pm | Mayor and Council
• September 5 at 3:00pm | Farmer's Market
• September 6 at 5:30pm | Economic Development Commission
• September 6 at 6pm | Conservation Commission
• September 7 at 4:30pm | Eastern Point Historic District Commission
• September 9 at 10:30am | Brew City Run
• September 11 at 6pm | Special Committee of the Whole
• September 11 at 7pm | Council Group Committees
• September 13 at 7:00pm | Beach and Parks Committee

• September 14 at 6pm | Harbor Management Commission
• September 18 at 5:30pm | Board of Ethics
• September 18 at 7:30pm | Mayor and Council
• September 19 at 6:30pm | Planning and Zoning Commission
• September 20 at 10:30am | Groton Utilities Commission
• September 21 at 6:00pm | PACT
• September 24 at 9:00am | Police & Youth Basketball Tournament
• September 25 at 6:00pm | Committee of the Whole
• September 26 at 7:00pm | Zoning Board of Appeals
• September 28 at 6:30pm | Youth Advisory Committee

Police Union Fundraiser

The City of Groton Police Union will be hosting a fundraiser at Outer Light Brewing Company on September 23, 2023 beginning at 12. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Connecticut Law Enforcement Memorial

www.ctneverforget.org

POLICE DEPARTMENT CO-HOSTED EVENTS

The City of Groton Police Department is sponsoring a Citizens Police Academy. The purpose of this academy is to provide the local community with information as it relates to the function and activities of the City of Groton Police Department. It is the hope that this program will increase police awareness and build community rapport through this educational endeavor. 

Classes will begin on September 27, 2023 and continue on Wednesdays, for 8 weeks. Graduation date to be determined. Participants may not miss more than one class during the session. All classes will be held at the City of Groton Municipal Building Conference C-8, from 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm.  

All applications must be received to the City of Groton Police Department no later than 4:00 pm on Friday, September 15, 2023.  

Completed applications can be submitted:

U.S. Mail: City of Groton Police Department, Attention Sgt .Jason Brucker, 295 Meridian Street, Groton, CT 06340

Email: [email protected]

Hand Delivered: City of Groton Police Department, 295 Meridian Street, Groton, CT 06340

THE CITY OF GROTON POLICE DEPARTMENT IS HIRING!

The City of Groton Police Department is hiring for the following positions. If interested, please apply at policeapp.com. 

If you have any questions, contact the Police Department at [email protected] or call us at 860-445-2451.

(For emergencies, please dial 911)

For the Fire Department email us at [email protected] or call us at

860-445-2456.

SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLING CONTAINERS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

Large solid and recycling containers are available for purchase to City of Groton residents. You can purchase 65-gallon trash or recycling containers for $79 each and 95-gallon trash containers for $89 each.

The design is compatible with automated and semi-automated lifters to fit onto City of Groton garbage trucks. The two-wheeled containers are nearly maintenance-free and are easy to tilt and roll.

For more information or to order a container, contact the City of Groton Public Works Department at 860-446-4127.

HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

Hazardous household waste collection is available at several locations in the region. City of Groton residents can drop off hazardous household wastes to be professionally incinerated, neutralized, stored, or recycled.

This service is available for free to all Groton residents (ID is required). Collection is only available for residential wastes; no commercial users.

For a full list of acceptable and unacceptable items, items that are regularly accepted at the Groton Transfer Station, and instructions on how to prepare hazardous wastes for collection and drop them off, click here.

For more information and questions about collections please contact Southeastern Connecticut Regional Resources Recovery Authority, 7 Hurlbutt Road Suite 1, Gales Ferry, CT 06335 www.SCRRRA.org. Phone: 860-381-5558 Fax: 860-381-5948.

If you have any questions please contact the Public Works Department at [email protected] or call us at 860-446-4127

CITY OF GROTON FARMERS' MARKET

The City of Groton Farmers' Market's mission is to provide a venue for local farmers and artisans to sell their produce and products directly to the diverse and integrated population of southeastern Connecticut.

The market can be found at Washington Park every Tuesday from 3-6 pm. The last market will take place on October 31st, after which a series of pop-up markets will be held in the fall and winter.

2023 CONCERTS IN THE PARK

Get ready to rock out in the park with our stellar lineup of 2023 bands. We have several bands making their Washington Park debut this year while also bringing back a number of our all-time favorites.

Shows begin at 6:30 pm. All shows are held at Washington Park in the City of Groton and feature a variety of food trucks. The series is co-sponsored and co-produced by the City of Groton Parks and Recreation Department and Groton Utilities.

The schedule of performers for 2023 includes:

• September 1st - American Honey

For more information, click here.

FALL/ WINTER BUS TRIPS !

Registration is now open for all our bus trips, online at http://cityofgroton.recdesk.com or call 860-446-4128

Big E on CT Day

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Avoid the hassles of traffic and parking and spend Connecticut Day at the Big E, the largest fair in New England. Browse the Avenue of the States, agricultural and livestock events, shopping and the Better Living Center and some of the best food around!

Leaves: 8:30 am from Washington Park’s overflow parking off of Park Ave & 283 Meridian Street, Groton CT

Returns: Approximately 6 pm to Groton, leaving the Big E grounds at 4:00 pm

Destination: Big E Fairgrounds, W Springfield, MA

Fee: $65.00 per person. Includes transportation, entrance fee & driver gratuity.

Registration deadline: Monday, September 18, 2023

Haunted Happenings—Salem MA

Saturday, October 28, 2023

The Ultimate Halloween experience! There is something for everyone in this seaport village, and it’s all within walking distance. You’ll be on your own to explore the psychic fairs, haunted houses, spooky cemeteries, museums and historic sights and great shopping and food. Dress in costume and you’ll fit right in, leave your broomstick at home and hop on our coach, as we go seeking ghosts and goblins!

To assist in planning your visit, go online to hautedhappenings.org.

Darrell will be your tour guide and driver.

Leaves: 7:45 am from the Norwich Commuter Lot (exit 11 from I-395)

Returns: Near 9:00 pm

Fee: $80.00 per person

Rockette’s Christmas Spectacular Show at Radio City Music Hall

Sunday, December 3, 2023

We will be dropped off very close to Rockefeller Center so you can see the famous Christmas Tree, NYC decorated for the holiday, free time to shop and eat on your own. The Rockette's Christmas Spectacular Show starts at 5 pm and is sure to get you in the Christmas Spirit!

Leaves: 8:30 am from the Groton City Municipal Building, 295 Meridian Street

Agenda: Brief rest stop about Darien CT for bathroom and food for bus. Arrives in NYC about 11:30-Noon. Doors open 1 hour ahead of show start at 5:00 pm, may want to line up 90 minutes prior. Departs: Directly after the show (about 6:45 pm) getting us back to Groton about 10 pm. 

Seats: Orchestra 1 seating 

Fee: $170.00 per person (Includes bus, gratuity and show ticket) Under 2 free on parent lap. 

Deadline: To register is THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2013

DISC GOLF FOR BEGINNERSS WITH BILL

RENT THE ZBIERSKI HOUSE AT EASTERN POINT BEACH

Small party, year-round rental venue at Eastern Point Beach with breathtaking views of Long Island Sound! Holds 50 people, tables and chairs are included. Limited kitchen on premise along with 2 bathrooms. Additional parking fees apply during open beach season. 

City of Groton residents: $30 per hour      

Non-residents: $60 per hour 

$100 security deposit is required (refundable as long as the contract is not broken)

Visit cityofgroton.recdesk.com or call 860-446-4128 for further details.

PERSONALIZED PAVERS AT EASTERN POINT BEACH

Arranged around the flagpole in front of the Tyler House.

$225 / 4 lines maximum (9 characters max per line, includes spaces). Payment is due with order form.

Order form can be picked up at our office or found online at recdesk.com.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

• September 6th at 5:30 pm Economic Development Commission
• September 19th at 6:30 pm Planning and Zoning Commission
• September 26th at 7 pm Zoning Board of Appeals
• September 25th at 6 pm Committee of the Whole Department Presentation
• September 27th at 6 pm Bridge Street Gateway Complete Street Open House

BRIDGE STREET GATEWAY COMPLETE STREET OPEN HOUSE

Pt. 2

Thank you to all the attendees of our August 23rd Open House. We appreciate your time, feedback, and experiences shared as we evaluate pedestrian and cyclist improvements at the Bridge Street Gateway. We'll be back on September 27th with another opportunity to discuss this project in more length and the proposed complete street plans.

The Bridge Street Gateway Complete Street Project focuses on the intersections of Bridge Street, North Street and Broad Street, which serves as the gateway to the City of Groton from Interstate 95. The purpose of this project is to temporarily demonstrate and evaluate elements of a complete street redesign proposed for the intersections. The goals of this project include:

• Enhancing the pedestrian and cyclist experience by increasing visibility.
• Shortening pedestrian crossing distances; and
• Slowing vehicular traffic. 

The project will focus on the following elements:

• Markings (high visibility crosswalks and midblock crossing)
• Curb extensions
• Bicycle lanes
• Median pedestrian island along Bridge St (to test closing a left turn lane onto I-95 on ramp)
• Signage and banners 

Join the conversation on GreaterGroton.com and join staff for an open house on Wednesday, September 27th from 6-8 pm in Council Chambers.

SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY! VOLUNTEER ON:

Economic Development Commission

Formed with the purpose of promoting and developing the City of Groton’s economic assets. The Commission consists of 8 regular members and 2 alternates members committed to the growth and success of the local economy. The commission is authorized to; improve the function and appearance of the City’s commercial districts; encourage a diverse business environment; emphasize the strengths of locating business in the City; and support, promote, and celebrate the success of local entrepreneurs.

Authority: CT General Statutes Sections 7-136 and 8-188

Available Seats: 2 Regular Members; 2 Alternates

Term: 3 Years

Meetings are held in the City of Groton Council Chambers at 5:30pm on the 1st Wednesday of the month.

For more information, contact Cierra Patrick at [email protected]

Zoning Board of Appeals  

Hears and decides appeals where it is alleged that there is an error in any order, requirement or decision made by the Zoning Enforcement Officer. The ZBA also determines, and may vary, the application of the zoning regulations with due consideration for conserving public health, safety and welfare, and with respect to a specific parcel of land where a literal enforcement of a regulation would result in exceptional difficulty or unusual hardship resulting in significant interference with the use of the property.   

Authority: CT General Statutes – Zoning Board of Appeals, Section 8-5

Available Seats: 3 Alternates

Term: 5 years. Appt. by Mayor

Meetings are held in the City of Groton Council Chambers at 7:30 p.m. on the 4th Tuesday of the month.

For more information, contact Leslie Creane at [email protected] 

CALLING ALL CITY OF GROTON COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNERS

Are you looking to renovate or build a new development? Schedule a one-on-one meeting with the Planning & Economic Development team to discuss your ideas and plans for your property. To schedule an appointment please email [email protected].

Do you have available commercial space for sell or rent? There's a growing interest for commercial space from enthusiastic entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their business to the City of Groton. If you have available space, please email Cierra Patrick, the City of Groton's Economic Development Manager, with the following information:

• Property address
• Property size by square feet
• Number of floors 
• Available space in square feet 
• Lease/sale price 
• Realtor's contact information, if applicable
• Property brochure, if available  

CITY OF GROTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GRANT PROGRAM

For more information please contact Cierra Patrick, City of Groton Economic Development Specialist at [email protected] 

GREATER GROTON COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PLATFORM

Join the Conversation!



Click here to sign-up for the Greater Groton Community Engagement Platform and participate in community discussions and planning efforts throughout Groton.  

Have you signed up for the City of Groton's Bi-weekly Business Update?

Sign up here! and receive bi-weekly business updates prepared by the City of Groton's Economic Development staff covering:

• Upcoming Webinars & Training

• Workforce Development Opportunities 

• Industry Events

• Funding Opportunities

• Business Support Services

Check out some of our featured Business Newsletter updates below!

GROTON CITY BREW RUN

Groton City Brew Run

Saturday, September 9th, 10:30 am

Eastern Point Beach

Groton Utilities and the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce present the 3rd Annual Groton City Brew Run, a combination 5K race and local brewfest, on Satruday, September 9th. Participants can either walk the route starting at 10:30 am or compete in a running race starting at 11 am. The race is followed by a festival featuring 13 local breweries, live music from 2 Cat Zoo, and food trucks.

This year, the running route has been updated to begin and end at Eastern Point Beach, right in front of the Tyler House - no more walking to the road to start!

Participants can walk or run only, take part in the walk or run along with the brewfest, or attend the brewfest only.

Register here

THE DAY's REGIONAL JOB FAIR

September 7th 2023 | 9:00am-1:00pm

The Day's Regional Job Fair will connect job seekers face-to-face with some of southeastern Connecticut's top employers - from growing local businesses to national companies.

"GREETING FROM GROTON MURAL RIBBION CUTTING

Greetings From Groton Mural Ribbon Cutting with special beer release 'Greetings from Groton' New England India Pale Ale. Meet the artist of the mural, try the new beer! A local food truck will be on-site selling dinner items. All ages welcome. 

Where: Outer Light Brewing Company, 266 Bridge Street, Groton, CT 06340 

When: Friday September 15, 2023. Outer Light's doors open at 2 pm, Ribbon Cutting at 5:30 pm, beer will release at 2pm when Outer Light opens its doors.

Event Contact: Tom Drejer phone: 860.324.0624 email: [email protected]

Register at Greetings from Groton Mural at Outer Light Ribbon Cutting - Event Registration (growthzoneapp.com)

TEMPORARY SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE FOR GOLD STAR MEMORIAL BRIDGE

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has introduced a temporary no-cost shuttle to provide transportation services crossing the southbound span of the Gold Star Memorial Bridge. This service will allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross the Bridge while the sidewalk is closed for evaluation, testing and repair.

The shuttle is running seven days per week, from 6 am to 5 pm. The pedestrian walkway has been closed to pedestrians since it was damaged due to the fatal vehicle crash in April.

The Gold Star Bridge Shuttle will run on continuous 30-minute loops with stops at Williams Street & Bailey Circle (Southbound), Bridge Street in Groton, 121 Riverview Avenue, and 1 Bailey Circle. The 20-passenger shuttle bus will display “Gold Star Bridge Shuttle” and can carry two bicycles.

The temporary Gold Star Bridge Shuttle will be provided at no cost to users; however, no transfers will be issued. The shuttle service is ADA-accessible.

The complete Gold Star Bridge Shuttle schedule is above.

For additional transportation options and help planning a commute, visit CTrides.com.  

THAMES RIVER HERITAGE PARK "DISCOVER THE THAMES" BOAT TOURS

Enjoy a special late summer cruise on the Thames River Heritage Park's water taxi! All tours depart from City Pier at New London Waterfront Park, and the boat has a maximum capacity of 30 people. Purchase your ticket in advance to save $5. Beverages and snacks are welcome on board, but please do not bring any glass containers. Please also be aware that no bathroom is available on board.

By the Light of the Silvery Moon: Full Moon Cruise on the Thames

September 28th | 7 pm

September 29th | 7:15 pm

Cruise down the Thames to the Long Island Sound. As the sun sets in the west and the skies explode with breathtaking hues of gold and pink, enjoy the light of the silvery full moon as it creates a path of glittering gold along the water at sunset.

BUY TICKETS 

Happy Hour Harbor Cruise

September 1st | 5:30pm

September 6th | 5:30pm

September 8th | 5:30pm

Looking for a great way to end the week and kick start your weekend? Look no further. Gather your friends or travel solo, bring your favorite beverage and hop aboard Thames River Heritage Park's authentic navy utility boat for a relaxing cruise down the Thames. You bring the cooler (alcohol is permitted) and we’ll take you to where the Thames meets the Sound for an enjoyable and scenic ride past battlefields, forts, heritage sites and more. Who knows … you might even spot a submarine!

BUY TICKETS

Water, Wampum, & Medicine Wheels. Mohegan Life on the Thames

September 2nd | 2:40 pm

The first inhabitants along the western side of the Massapequatuck (Thames) River — the Mohegan tribe — settled here from the time of Sachem Uncas’ birth toward the end of the 16th century. This area — roughly between present day Norwich and New London — was and continues to be the vital heart of Mohegan country. Led by Tribal members, this fascinating tour will include stories demonstrating how crucial the Thames River was for food, wildlife, transportation, and trade as well as their relationship with the colonists.

BUY TICKETS

Submarines, Battlefields, and Betrayers. Military Stories on the Thames

September 2nd | 4:05 pm

For centuries our harbor has guarded the Thames River and entry to Long Island Sound, with Navy and Coast Guard installations, the ship building industries that support them, as well as two forts that have seen battles, defeats and the birthplace of the Coast Guard and Merchant Marine. From the vantage point of the river you‘ll understand the strategic value of this storied waterway and region and hear a few of the thousand stories in the Park.

BUY TICKETS

Patriots and Red Coast: Revolutionary War on the Thames

September 3rd | 2:40pm

September 9th | 4:05pm

September 10th | 2:40pm

On September 6, 1781, the British landed 800 men on Groton side of the Thames River; abut 1 1/2/ mile south of Fort Griswold, as well as an additional 800 soldiers on the New London side. he combined forces were commanded by General Benedict Arnold, who was from Norwich, Connecticut. British troops in Groton were slowed by tangled woods, swamps, and the British artillery could not keep pace with foot troops, who came within striking distance of Fort Griswold at 10:00am. Hear about the battle and the burning of New London as we commemorate this historic day. This tour is presented by Friends of Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park.

BUY TICKETS

Commerce and Defense: Maritime History of the Thames to 1865

September 9th | 2:40 pm

September 10th | 1:05 pm

Travel back in time to 1865 and meet Commodore Joseph Lanman as he returns to his native land for shore leave. While cruising the Thames, Commodore Lanman regales one and all on the maritime history of the river from its early settlement until his “present” time. The Commodore shares stories of life on the river and explains its importance to both the State of Connecticut and the entire nation during times of war and times of peace.

BUY TICKETS

Sunset Cruise on the Thames

September 7th | 6:30pm

September 9th | 7 pm

Experience the stunning natural beauty of a sunset on the Thames River. It's the perfect way to take in the bold colors, see the view of the shore from the water and make some fantastic memories.

BUY TICKETS

CT OFFICE OF THE ART

EMERGING TEACHING ARTIST

Due: Wednesday, September 6, 2023

The Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) is seeking at least ten (10) emerging teaching artists who will participate in a paid ($1,000) professional development training program that serves older adults (55+).

COA will provide best practice strategies for working in the field of creative aging. The emerging teaching artists will shadow mentor teaching artists in 8 session programs which will deliver sequential learning and active engagement for older adults.

Learn More and Apply

Artists Respond Grants

Due: Wed., October 25, 2023 at 11:59 PM 

The Artists Respond grant program awards funds to Connecticut artists for community-based art projects.

Connecticut artists may apply for a grant of $3,000 to support artist fees and project related expenses.

Learn More and Apply

UPCOMING SHOWS AT HYGIENIC ART

Upcoming events include:

DJ WOW & FREINDS

Friday, September 1st, 6:30pm

Meet at Hygenic Art Park to kick off this Labor Day weekend with a multi-music genre DJ dance party!

EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS AT LYMAN ALLYN ART MUSEUM

On Saturday, August 26th, the Lyman Allyn Art Museum will debut Blue Seeds: A Reflection on Foster Care. Artist Jac Lahav works with immersive vining sculptures and abstract painting that intertwine the themes of fostering and the nurturing power of plants. Through vibrant blue installations that envelop and beguile, Lahav encourages viewers to explore the complex layers of human connection and growth.

Other upcoming events include:

Free First Saturday - Cool Style

Saturday, September 2nd, 11 am - 1 pm

Admission to the Lyman Allyn Art Museum is free all day, and the studio will be open for a children's craft! This month's theme is "Cool Style," inviting visitors to celebrate the fun fashion featured in Barkley L. Hendricks in New London and design a retro outfit for yourself using mixed media materials.

Science Saturday

Saturday, September 16th, 11 am - 1 pm

This monthly drop-in activity designed for ages 7-11 encourages participants to explore the intersections between art and science. This month's theme is "Sports Geometry," based on Barkley Hendricks' use of the geometry of basketball courts to create wonderful works of art. Create your own collage that reflects the geometry of your favorite sport. 

Blue Seeds: Reflection on Foster Care Gallery Talk

Wednesday, September 20th, 5:30-7 pm

Join us for a gallery talk exploring the exhibition Blue Seeds: Reflections on Foster Care with artist Jac Lahav. Learn more about Lahav’s development of the series and some of their experiences as a foster care parent.

Barkley L. Hendricks in New London Gallery Talk

Wednesday, August 30th, 5:30 - 7 pm

A gallery talk exploring the exhibition Barkley L. Hendricks in New London with Susan Hendricks and Lyman Allyn Curator Tanya Pohrt. Learn more about the life of Barkley L. Hendricks and hear some of the stories behind the works on view. Members $10, non-members $15.

seCTerRise

Entrepreneurs and existing business owners now have access to free advising services paired with growth funding up to $20,000 from seCTer, the Southeastern Connecticut Enterprise Region, through its seCTerRise business retention and expansion program. Industries of focus include childcare, cybersecurity, agriculture, and sustainable energy. Business owners will be able to work with seCTer staff in applying for the funds and determining how best they can be used to sustain and expand their business. For eligibility criteria, eligible uses, application details, and more information, visit seCTerRise - seCTer or contact SeCTer's Business Retention & Expansion Specialist Joe Violette at 860-437-4659 or [email protected].

WOMEN'S BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL EQUITY GRANT HAS REOPENED!

The Women’s Business Development Council’s Opportunity Fund is pleased to announce the opening of a new application period for the Equity Match Grant (EMG) Program. Cash grants between $2,500 and $10,000 will be awarded to qualified women-owned small businesses in Connecticut for clearly-defined projects that will have a measurable impact on the business, its growth and profitability.

The seventh round of Equity Match Grant applications opens on Monday, August 14th, and will remain open through September 27th. The application will also be offered in Spanish.

For more information click here please or tune in to an information session. These sessions are the best way to prepare to apply for a WBDC Equity Match Grant. Join WBDC staff to learn about eligibility requirements, what the grant can be used for, the application process and timeline.

• Wednesday, September 6th, 5:30 - 6:30 pm | REGISTER 
• Tuesday, September 12th, 10-11 am | REGISTER  
• Thursday, September 14th, noon to 1 pm | REGISTER  
• Tuesday, September 19th, noon to 1 pm | REGISTER  

OPEN AIR 2023 AT AVERY POINT

The Alexey von Schlippe Gallery is currently closed, but visitors are are encouraged to view its Open Air 2023 exhibition of outdoor artwork.

Open Air 2023 will be on display on the shoreline walk of the University of Connecticut Avery Point Campus through September 14th.

EASTERM CT WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD PROGRAMS

INTRODUCING "GROTON CITY — HISTORY IN THE MAKING"

With the support of the City Council, as well as input from residents and business leaders, the city has launched an economic development and lifestyle brand: “Groton City — History in the Making.”

The purpose of the brand is to highlight Groton City as a distinct community, recognize the ways it has contributed to the character and identity of the United States, and spotlight how our community continues to play a role in today's innovations.

Plans are underway for a formal brand launch ceremony on Groton City Day in August. The brand will become more visible in the coming months on banners, signage, advertising, and branded items.