Tuesday, March 3, 2026

The Authoria Times

Your trusted source for local news & community stories
[ Photo: City Council chamber during vote ]
Breaking

City Council Approves $4.2 M Downtown Revitalization Plan

In a landmark 7–2 vote Tuesday evening, the City Council greenlit the long-awaited downtown revitalization initiative, allocating $4.2 million toward streetscape improvements, façade grants for local businesses, and a new public plaza on Main Street. Mayor David Chen called the decision “a turning point for our city’s future,” while council members outlined a phased timeline stretching through 2028.


Local News

Local

Community Garden Expansion Breaks Ground on Maple Avenue

Volunteers gathered Saturday morning to break ground on a 12-plot expansion of the Maple Avenue Community Garden, bringing the total to 40 growing spaces available to residents.

Local

Fire Department Receives $320K Federal Grant for New Equipment

The city fire department has been awarded a $320,000 FEMA grant that will fund thermal imaging cameras, updated turnout gear, and upgraded radio systems for all three stations.

Education

Public Library Launches Free After-School Coding Program

Starting next Monday, the Westfield Public Library will offer free coding workshops for students in grades 5–8, covering Scratch, Python basics, and web design over a 10-week curriculum.


Community

Community

Founders Day Festival Returns With Expanded Vendor Market

This year’s Founders Day celebration will feature over 60 local vendors, live music on two stages, a kids’ zone, and the traditional pie-eating contest at Riverside Park.

Community

New Farm-to-Table Restaurant Opens on Historic Main Street

“The Copper Kettle,” a farm-to-table restaurant sourcing ingredients from three local farms, held its grand opening Saturday in the renovated 1920s hardware store building.

Community

Youth Soccer League Registration Opens for Spring Season

Registration is now open for the spring season of the Westfield Youth Soccer League. The league serves players ages 5–14 with games held Saturdays at Memorial Field. Scholarships are available.