Easton and Fairfield are in preliminary discussions about collaborating on a plan to exchange access to Easton’s ball fields for discounted passes to Fairfield’s beaches.
Easton Selectman Nicholas D’Daddario came up with the idea months ago. He proposed it to Fairfield First Selectman Bill Gerber, who said through the town’s director of communication, “This is an idea that’s been suggested, and that it’s under discussion.”
“People want new, increased recreational opportunities for residents,” said D’Addario. “We’re a landlocked town with no pool, nor do we want one. So, what are ways we can leverage our town’s resources to provide increased opportunities for our residents?”
Conversations are ongoing between Gerber and First Selectman David Bindelglass, with “a length to go to having agreement,” said D’Addario. “We’re all on board with the concept of the idea, but this is not a done deal.”
Bindelglass said the proposal is “mutually beneficial. Our residents obviously lack beaches. It’s a win-win for everyone,” he said.
D’Addario said the idea was inspired by the agreement Weston and Westport have had for more than 40 years, where Weston residents have discounted beach permits in Westport.
In return, he said, Easton has beautiful fields and land. “We can’t charge people to hike our trails,” he said, “but perhaps this is a good trade-off.”
Currently, a non-resident beach pass in Fairfield costs $250 per year.
“One of the things we always have to balance in our town is the need for increased opportunities and resources,” D’Addario said. “We don’t have commercial property nor do we want to. We don’t have a major recreational facility with a pool or two, but if we could give people a beach permit for $100, it would be helpful to families.”
From FCN partner Easton Courier.
