State Funding for Norwalk, Scam Alert, and More!

October 3, 2025



 

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Dear Neighbor,

Happy Friday! I hope you had a wonderful week. For many, the start of October marks the beginning of the Halloween season.  As you prepare to begin decorating, please check out this list of safety tips provided by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection:

  •  Avoid candles, opt to use battery-powered lights or glow sticks.
  • Make sure your lights are reputable and were tested by a recognized lab (look for UL, ETL, or CSA marks on the packaging).
  • Inspect every cord, toss any with cracked sockets, frayed wires, or loose connections.
  • Place decorations wisely to keep walkways clear and trick-or-treaters safe.

Please read below for information on state funding for Norwalk, protecting yourself from potential scams, and more! 

State Funding for Norwalk

On Tuesday, the Community Investment Fund board approved $3.5 million in funding for two projects in Norwalk: 

  • $2.5 million investment to fund pedestrian safety and traffic calming upgrades along Lexington Avenue
  • $1 million to support the historic restoration and streetscape enhancement of Washington Street in South Norwalk’s historic district

Infrastructure improvements can transform a good city into an even greater one. Once the Lexington Avenue project is complete, the street will be much safer for all travelers, from those who choose to walk, to cyclists, and individuals behind a wheel. The Streetscape project on Washington Street will contribute to a more welcoming experience for diners, shoppers, business owners, and residents along one of Norwalk's most vibrant downtown corridors. Thank you to the CIF board, Speaker Ritter, Senate President Looney, and Governor Lamont for their continued investment in Norwalk.

Scam Alert

The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) is alerting taxpayers to a new scam where scammers are impersonating the DRS by sending fraudulent text messages. The texts fraudulently claim that you are owed a tax refund from the DRS and require you to provide banking and other information in order to receive the refund.

The DRS will NEVER send taxpayers a text message or seek to obtain information from taxpayers via text. Anyone who has information regarding a tax-related scam is urged to contact DRS by completing a referral form on the agency’s website.

Taxpayers with questions are encouraged to reach out to DRS by telephone at 860-297-5962, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. or by email at DRS@ct.gov.

The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) recently shared a newsletter that includes helpful tips about identifying potential scams. If you have any additional questions, please visit the CT DCP website. 

Upcoming Library Events 

The Norwalk Public Library will hold several events over the next few weeks. If you want more information, click on the corresponding flyer or visit the Norwalk Public Library website. 

Westport Public Library also has a robust lineup of programming. Please visit their website to learn more. 

ICYMI

Chili Cook Off

VFW Post 399 is collaborating with American Legion Post 63 for a Chili Cook-Off. Attendees will be able to try several types of chili and vote on their favorite. The event will be held on October 18th from 6 PM - 8 PM. Please see the flyer below for more information. 

Free Nature Walk

Join Norwalk Recreation and Parks for a FREE Nature Walk at Cranbury Park on Saturday, October 25.  Explore native plants, identify trees, and spot local wildlife with expert arborist Sarah Cruz and the Recreation & Parks staff. There will be two sessions - the first will run from 10 AM - 10:45 AM and the second will run from 11 AM - 11:45 AM.

Please see the flyer below for more information. 

Flu Shot Clinic 

The Norwalk Health Department is host weekly flu shot clinics. The flu shot is a safe and easy way to protect yourself this season. Click here or on the graphic below to make an appointment. 

Optimum’s 18th Annual Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest

Optimum’s 18th Annual Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest is now accepting entries. Interested applicants must write an essay about their connection to Hispanic culture in 500 words or less. The contest is open to middle and high school students.
 
Essays must be submitted by October 31. Click here to learn more. 

Fair season is in full swing in Connecticut. Get your fill of fantastic food, fun rides and other great entertainment. Many also showcase local businesses and organizations, crafts, exhibits, local oysters and craft beers, and other things unique to our great state!

There are a few upcoming events in our community: 

  • The 8th Annual Westoberfest Craft Beer & Family Fall Festival will be held on tomorrow, October 4. Click here for more information.
  • The American Legion Fall Festival will be held on Saturday, October 11. Click here to learn more.

Click here for a list of upcoming fairs in the state. 
 

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me with any questions and concerns you may have - I can be reached at Dominique.Johnson@cga.ct.gov, or through my office phone - 860-240-8585.

Sincerely,

Dominique Johnson
State Representative

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