Two new sets of benches are now ready for use on the Guilford Green, thanks to the efforts of the Guilford Green Committee (GGC), Town Hall, and the Park and Recreation Department. The handicap-accessible benches, inspired by residents who used the Green's open space for COVID-era gatherings and meetings, create what is being referred to as "nodes" or "pods" for encouraging conversation.

Acting Chair of the GGC, John Cunningham, spoke with The Courier earlier this year and said the project was borne out of comments and feedback that Committee members and town officials received from residents.

“During COVID, there were many group meetings on the Green. They would bring their own chairs because it was outside," Cunningham said. "I know that [Park and Recreation Director] Rick Maynard got some comments from folks saying ‘wouldn’t it be nice to group some benches together',” said Cunningham. “At that time, we were already selecting a new bench for the Guilford Green. In fact, we had purchased six new benches, with the hope of getting six to eight more because as benches deteriorate, we need to replace them.”

Cunningham said the bench areas are referred to as “pods” or “nodes.” There is one node along Park Street across from the Episcopal Church and another set along Whitfield Street across from the set of businesses next to St. George Church.

First Selectman Matt Hoey said he was impressed by the effort and the installation.

“I think they look tremendous. The size of the platforms was designed specifically to allow access for all and to accommodate folks with disabilities. It helps create a communal atmosphere on the Green," Hoey said. "What’s interesting to me is that the Green, as iconic and as beautiful as it is, can still evolve gracefully and tastefully. We added basically added about 50 percent more benches to the Green, but we also created communal spaces at the same time."

Hoey praised members of GCC for their efforts in bringing the project to fruition.

"I want to thank the members of the Guilford Green Committee for their thoughtfulness and hard work and ultimately their design, as well as Rick Maynard and Park and Rec who made sure it happened,” Hoey said.

One of these benches in the node along Park Street is now dedicated as the memorial bench for Carl Balestracci. Balestracci, a former Guilford educator; first selectman; coach; and all-around Guilford hero, was honored by the Board of Selectman earlier this year with a bench tribute.