A ribbon-cutting was held Thursday at the newly renovated Kennedy Park in Danbury.  Public Works Director Antonio Iadarola says the project came in on time and under budget.  The city spent about $275,000 to upgrade the park off Main Street. 

The scope of the work included installation of decorative sidewalks, raised landscaping islands, and ornamental fencing.  The work was designed by city employees.  Electrical and plumbing services were added for the Farmers Market so people can wash vegetables.

Iadarola says pedestrian safety was a major concern before the work was completed, so that was a priority.  A box culver runs under the park that carries the Still River and Blind Brook, which complicated the work.  He says the contractor did a great job despite having to change some things due to unforseen complications.

He says the park looks larger because of the landscaping, but they didn't add to it.  The physical work took a little under two months.

Some changes have been made to the Danbury Farmers' Market Community Collaborative as the season gets underway this afternoon.  Vendors will be accepting credit cards for the first time.  Director Peggy Zamore says there is improved access to fresh food for recipients of government food assistance programs by matching up to $9 a week, the value of SNAP food stamps. 

This is the first year that bus passes through HART transit are available to give people a ride home. 

In addition to Connecticut grown foods, the Wellness Van will be there for health screenings.  The literacy van from the school system will also be on hand so kids can read while their parents shop. 

This year also features the start of a matching voucher program for low income veterans.  It's a collaborative with the state Department of Agriculture and a community philanthropist.  Eligible veterans will have $42 to spend at the market through the season.

The Market is open at Kennedy Park from 11am to 5pm.  It runs every Friday, except Independence Day, through Halloween.