Good morning, Westport.

Today, Westport observes the 80th anniversary of a 1946 fire tragedy that killed four firefighters after a truck explosion on Post Road West; Staples High School senior Seamus Brannigan built a custom cabinet for their helmets to honor their legacy.

Andrew Colabella and community members gathered strong support at Monday's Planning and Zoning Commission meeting for a proposal to add a fenced dog park at Winslow Park.

He plans to submit a full proposal in two weeks and expects the project to be completed by summer.

Connecticut is gearing up for a busy May with a variety of music concerts, festivals and shows.

Highlights include Charlie Puth performing at Mohegan Sun Arena on May 23 and CeCe Winans at the Toyota Oakdale Theatre on May 7, along with family-friendly events and art exhibits across the state.

Gas prices in Connecticut jumped nine cents in 24 hours, with the average rising to $4.41 — the highest since July 2022 — at a Cumberland Farms in Rocky Hill.

Experts warn that the rise could keep travel costs high and affect summer plans.

The Westport Library is hosting a series of events for young children on May 8–9—activities include a stuffed animal slumber party, a staff meet-and-greet, and a train room reopening.

Families should check registration details and plan to take part in interactive story time.

At Wednesday's work session, the Conservation Commission reviewed Westport water quality findings.

Samples from Saugatuck Harbor tested well while Sasco Brook and New Creek need improvement (issues include horse manure and septic failures), prompting further testing and community education.

Alex Cohen — a long-time resident active in the Rotary Club and Sustainable Westport — was appointed to the Parks & Rec Commission this month to push for a new maintenance facility at Longshore, repositioned community gardens at Burr Farms, and a rebuilt skate park.

The Parks & Recreation Department has chosen NG Entertainment/Nikki Glekas Collective for the Compo Beach and Longshore pavilions.

Their contract is set for board review next week, and if approved, operations will begin by Memorial Day.

Brooklawn Contractors LLC of Westport has proposed a plan to build three two-family buildings with six housing units at 274 East Ave in Norwalk.

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hear the plan on May 20 — community members have raised strong concerns via social media.

Terrarium Workshop

6-7:30 p.m. — Jenni Kayne Home - Westport — Light refreshments served — Create your own lush garden terrarium for outdoor entertaining.