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The centerpiece of the community is its historic downtown district that is undergoing a complete restoration. Among the recent improvements are enhancements to Elmwood Park; the southern "Gateway" to downtown; establishment of Palace Walk connecting Main Street to public/private parking; development of the Palace View Senior Housing project on Main Street; the opening of Danbury Library Technology Center as well as an addition to city hall and landscaping and infrastructure improvements to the entrance to St. Joseph's Church. Other improvements are planned.
The Danbury Public School system features 13 elementary schools, two middle schools and the largest high school in Connecticut. Danbury High has taken significant strides to increase technology in the school. Each classroom has computers and the newly renovated library/media center has two computer labs for students’ use. This school continues to grow and expand -- a science wing was recently completed and a new track and field complex is being added.
There are many opportunities for higher education in Fairfield County. In addition to the West Connecticut State University campus, both Norwalk and Housatonic Community College are located just a short drive away. Fairfield University, Sacred Heart University, Yale and the University of Bridgeport are private institutions and are also located nearby.
Danbury offers year-round recreational opportunities for residents. Candlewood Lake is the largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi and covers approximately 800 acres. Here you can find opportunities for fishing, swimming, hiking, boating and picnicking in certain areas. Several parks throughout the area including Danbury Candlewood Park and Squantz Pond State Park provide facilities for tennis, basketball, swimming, hiking in the warmer months and ice-skating and cross country skiing in the winter months. There are also two nature centers in the area with learning centers and hiking trails. Both Richter and Candlewood Park feature plenty of challenging golf. Richter also has hiking trails and an outdoor theatre. The Tarrywile Mansion and Park features 545 acres and is the site of the historic Victorian mansion and gardens. The Danbury Railway Museum is also a must-see attraction.
For those who prefer indoor recreation, there are shopping plazas located in the historic downtown area and near Candlewood Lake. The Danbury Fair Mall prides itself on being New England’s most complete enclosed shopping experience. This mall is anchored by five department stores and more than 220 retail stores as well as an entertainment complex.
The history of Danbury dates back to 1685. The city was named after Danbury, England and was incorporated as a town in 1702. The town was burned by the British in 1777. Danbury was once known for its hat industry, which lasted until when the popularity of hats declined.
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