Audubon Arts District

The stretch of Audubon Street from Orange Street to Whitney Avenue is called the Audubon Arts District. At a time when the city was on unsure footing, homes were being built, but many buildings were undergoing demolition, architect Charles Brewer developed a master plan for the area. Part of the plan was to support existing, self-sustaining institutions. This included mixed-use development including housing, educational buildings, retail and institutional space. This mixed-use plan freed up funds for the project that may otherwise not have been available. The inclusion of housing space meant there were built-in visitors to the cultural attractions in the area. People were more likely to participate in the art programs and support the retail space if it was right outside their door. While the project did experience some setbacks, it was ultimately successful because the project was not overly politicized and the project managers and architect stuck with it. Today, the space is filled with cultural activity and plenty of people in residence, as well as a fair share of local visitors. Supporting the arts is an important part of the New Haven community and the Audubon Arts District provides locals and visitors with a place where they can put their money where their mouth is.