Dear Neighbor,
Some weeks are busier than others. But if there's an event that celebrates the city or its residents, I want to be there. The past week was no exception.
Before I get to that, I want to update you on work the CTDOT is doing in and around Danbury. Infrastructure work may not be the most exciting news, but it's critical for everything to run smoothly and efficiently.
First, the CTDOT has announced that wrong-way driver preventative maintenance and recertification has started on I-84 east and westbound at various exit ramps in Newtown, Southbury and Danbury starting this past Tuesday.
The following closures in Danbury start tonight:
I-84 at Exit 4 Eastbound in Danbury | Thursday, March 27 | 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
The exit ramp for I-84 at Exit 4 eastbound in Danbury, will be closed to traffic on Thursday, March 27, from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. Traffic will be detoured as follows: Take Exit 2 westbound off-ramp, right onto Milestones Road, then right onto Mill Plain.
I-84 at Exit 4 Westbound in Danbury | Thursday, March 27 | 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
The exit ramp for I-84 at Exit 4 westbound in Danbury, will be closed to traffic on Thursday, March 27, from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. Traffic will be detoured Exit 5 eastbound off-ramp, left onto Main Street, then left onto Exit 5 on-ramp for I-84 eastbound. Take Exit 4 off-ramp.
I-84 at Exit 5 Westbound in Danbury | Thursday, March 27 | 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
The exit ramp for I-84 at Exit 5 westbound in Danbury, will be closed to traffic on Thursday, March 27, from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. Traffic will be detoured Exit 4 westbound off-ramp, take a left onto Lake Avenue. Then left onto Exit 4 on-ramp back onto I-84 eastbound.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area. |
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CTDOT has announced that basin and drain cleaning will be performed on I-84 eastbound from the New York State Line to Exit 8 starting April 13. This project is scheduled to begin on Sunday, April 13, 2025, and continue through Thursday, May 15, 2025 from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
No work will be performed on Holidays. Mobile truck attenuator units will be used to guide motorists through the work zone.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area. |
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The CTDOT has announced milling and concrete deck repair on I-84 between Exits 3 and 7 in Danbury starting Monday, April 7.
LANE CLOSURE/DETOUR INFO
There will be ramp closures on Route 7 southbound at Exit 10 to I-84 eastbound from Monday, April 7, to Monday, June 30, 2025, from 8:00 p.m. to 6 a.m. Motorists will be detoured to take I-84 westbound Exit 6, which will lead them back to I-84 eastbound by using the Exit 6 on-ramp. The project's work schedule will be Monday night through Friday night.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area. |
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In celebration of Baseball’s Opening Day, here’s a video of me taking some swings in the brand-new batting cages at Rogers Park, part of over $1 million investment Mayor Roberto Alves is making in Danbury’s parks.
It’s investments like these that help create amazing spaces for our entire community. A special thanks to Coach/Councilman Gary Simone for reminding me of my days on Abbott Tech’s varsity baseball team. Play Ball! |
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| Firefighter Training School |
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Groundbreaking of Danbury’s new Fire Training School!
Our first responders put in countless hours of training to be ready for any emergency, and this major investment in this new facility will ensure they have the best possible environment to sharpen their expertise. They certainly deserve it for all they do to keep us safe.
Thank you to Danbury’s own The Hawley Companies and WHP Fire Towers for helping bring this project to life! |
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Last week I attended the annual Alice Paul Legacy in Action Awards, a truly inspiring event honoring three extraordinary women. This award celebrates those who, in the spirit of Alice Paul, have faced adversity head-on and fought tirelessly for justice and equality.
Among the honorees was Susan Cocco, a woman of remarkable strength and conviction. Much like my own wife, Susan, my good friend Francesca’s mom, was a force to be reckoned with, a true champion for women’s rights, the disadvantaged, and the underprivileged. She raised two incredible daughters who carry forward her legacy with the same passion and determination.
Alongside Susan, Peggy Marconi and Betsy Thompson were also honored, each of them a testament to what it means to lead with courage and compassion. Hearing the many stories about Susan last night, I couldn’t help but hope that my own daughter grows up to embody that same spirit - undaunted, unwavering, and a true force for good. |
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Beauty and the Beast Jr.’s second night was a sold-out success! My daughter was surrounded by love—grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, Godparents, past teachers, and friends — All Family — coming together to cheer her on.
We are beyond grateful for this incredible community that lifts and supports its own. Bravo to the talented students who poured their hearts into this beautiful performance—your passion and hard work truly lit up the stage!
The evening was made even more meaningful with a heartfelt tribute to Ms. Nauheimer, a beloved teacher gone too soon. In her honor, the Musical Theatre group introduced the Ms. Nauheimer Kindness Award, celebrating students who embody kindness and compassion.
Congratulations to Gabby N., the first recipient, for shining as a true example of love and care for others. Ms. Nauheimer’s legacy lives on through the kindness she inspired. |
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| I dropped in to the Regional Hospice 2nd Annual Spring Fling. This is an organization that is near and dear to my heart. Special thanks to ToniAnn Marchione their fearless and thoughtful leader along with her amazing team. Great to be with the Ives Bank crew. |
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My wife Kitty and I have made it a tradition to attend the Danbury Volunteer Fire Department Firemen’s Ball each year to show our support for Danbury’s dedicated volunteer firefighters. Their commitment to our community is truly commendable.
As a City Councilman, I was proud to stand alongside colleagues like Frank Salvatore and Mayor Alves in advocating for a well-deserved tax abatement for our volunteer firefighters. While past administrations have put this issue on hold, I’m honored to serve in the administration that is finally making it a reality.
Our volunteer firefighters play a vital role in keeping Danbury safe, working hand in hand with the dedicated professionals of the Danbury Fire Department. Their service and sacrifice deserve our gratitude and recognition.
Congratulations to all the honorees for their years of dedication to our city! |
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Growing up, tuning in to Mr. Morning was a winter tradition—I’d eagerly listen to Bill Trotta to find out if we had a snow day. It was a must. Now, after an incredible career in radio, Mr. Morning has signed off for the last time. It was an honor to recognize his achievements and celebrate his impact on the airwaves. We even got to nerd-out over our shared hobby of collecting political buttons!
Wishing him a well-earned and restful retirement. |
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The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Danbury is more than a celebration, it’s a tradition that unites our community. So many fun moments today. Showing up means honoring Irish heritage and as elected officials, it’s our duty to show up, support our community, and lead by example proving that we care.
If you were there, thank you for being part of it. If not, we hope to see you next year, because our community thrives when we show up for each other! |
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As always, if you have any comments, questions or concerns, please reach out to my office.
Sincerely,
Farley Santos |
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