History

Today's Westport residents would barely recognize their town's Main Street from 150 years ago.  In the mid-19th century, the town was characterized by its agricultural and maritime roots. However, in the beginning of the 20th century, Westport became an early New York "bedroom community," with an economy reoriented on commercial and cultural activities.  New residents included a steady influx of artists and writers who helped shape Westport's unique artistic character during the latter half of the 20th century.  

Downtown expanded as car travel became more popular, permanently changing the streetscape. Once a local village center, many locally-owned businesses were replaced by chain stores. 

Downtown plans have periodically been done over the past 40 years. In 2013, the Town convened a committee to develop the latest comprehensive master plan for the area.  The process culminated in the 2015 adoption of the Downtown Master Plan, to steer development, investment, and critical decision-making in the 21st century.  This has now been further focused and updated into the five key strategic pillars outlined on this site.

Downtown Master Planning is a strategy for addressing the many issues residents and experts have identified as needing to be improved while maintaining and enhancing Westport's unique character and beauty.  It is also an attempt to help guide future zoning and growth, and make sure that everything we do is in keeping who we are as a community.

Progress against these initiatives will involve both the public and private sectors in collaboration.