Rebirth and Construction

   When town offices moved to the refurbished school building behind it, the old Town Hall stood empty. In 2003, the Board of Selectmen formed a committee to investigate how to preserve the building.  Their thoughts were to preserve the building and determine if it could function as a theatre and community center in a cost-effective manner.

   The committee visited facilities around the state, including the Ridgefield Playhouse, the Newtown Theatre, the Thomaston Opera House and the renovated theatre auditorium at the Deep River Town Hall.

   In March 2004, a feasibility study contract was awarded to East Wharf Architects of Madison, and the following spring a design and engineering contract was awarded to the company. The idea to honor longtime Old Saybrook resident Katharine Hepburn by putting her name on the building was endorsed by her family and the executors of her estate. Their approval indicated, “Miss Hepburn’s name will endure in the community that she loved so much.” Shortly thereafter a number of local residents joined the efforts.

   Construction An invitation to bid for construction was advertised in June 2006. The lowest bid of four received was approximately $1.1 million more than the approved budget. Following discussion with the Town Attorney all bids were rejected with a plan to re-advertise later in the fall. It is the intention to not compromise the quality or specifications of the project. A four-step plan has been implemented to reduce cost by reviewing engineering plans and specifications, obtaining additional state funding, increasing the goal of the capital campaign and exploring additional town funding.

    Features of the building still intact will be incorporated into the renovation, including the exterior stairs at the front entrance leading to a portico supported by six two-story Doric columns. Others features include a main foyer with a coved ceiling flanked by a curved-wall ticket booth and coat room, and doors leading to the original balcony with a staircase of mahogany newel posts and balusters.

   The completed building of 12,000 square feet will meet fire, safety, building and handicap accessible codes. An elevator will be installed. The seating area in the main hall and balcony will accommodate 268. A museum alcove will feature exhibits of Miss Hepburn’s career, the building’s history and information related to past and future events. The building will also accommodate an office on the lower level for the Old Saybrook Probate Court, a cost saving measure for the community.