Vernon, UConn To Study Former Senior Center For Arts Venue

VERNON, CT — Mayor Daniel Champagne said Friday that the University of Connecticut’s Arts

Administration program is scheduling two forums to "gather public opinion" as part of the graduate programs' feasibility study for the development and management of the former Vernon Senior Center as a performing arts center.

The building is located at 26 Park Place.

Under the direction of Dr. Constance DeVereaux, Director of UConn Arts Administration program, UConn’s "community engagement activities" will include a combination of public forums, focus groups, survey research, interviews, and the compilation of demographics and other statistical information.

The group has created the hashtag #ParkPlaceVernon to raise awareness of the project.

"The Arts enrich us not only by the cultural value that they bring, but more importantly, by fostering a sense of community,” Champagne said. "We are excited to be in partnership with UConn and begin the process of enriching the arts experience in Vernon. I invite residents and local community members with an interest in the arts to participate in either meeting and to lend their voice to this important project."

Added DeVereaux, "The arts are a vital part of sustainable communities in the 21st century. Projects like this one help to highlight the benefits that an arts infrastructure can bring to a town like Vernon. There is enough evidence to show that well-developed arts venues can lift the economy, promote social well-being, and provide community cohesion. Our study will look at the degree to which these aims can be achieved in Vernon."

The first public forum is slated for Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rockville Public Library's Peck Room, located at 52 Union Street.

A second forum is on tap for Tuesday, October 8, at 6:3.0. pm at the Center Road School Library, located at 20 Center Road.

The forums are open to the public and no reservations are required.