Jack's Alley

Jack’s Alley is a vibrant and lively community space in the heart of Waterbury’s historic district. Located between 21 and 23 Stowe Street, the alley is a welcoming public venue for events, exhibits, and gatherings. Thanks to the tireless efforts of passionate community members, local businesses, Vermont state grants, and the support of civic leaders, the once underutilized and blighted alleyway has been revitalized into an active public space, featuring in-ground plantings, comfortable seating, a brick walkway, and integrated art installations.

Jack’s Alley now reflects Waterbury’s community spirit & commitment to public spaces and art.

every project has a story

Jack Carter, the beloved owner of Stowe Street Emporium at 23 Stowe Street, dreamt of revitalizing the adjacent alley for over 20 years. Jack was known for his playful spirit and deep connection to Waterbury’s history. After his passing, Revitalizing Waterbury, along with local organizations and business owners including Waterbury Arts, Waterbury Rotary, MakerSphere, and alley property owners the Steiner family and the Masons worked together on fundraising with the goal of turning his vision into reality. Now, the alley project—affectionately known as Jack’s Alley—is a tribute to Jack's dream.

 

Reserve the space

 

Features of Jack's Alley

The Mural: Waterbury artist Sarah-Lee Terrat has painted a mural to honor Jack Carter. The artwork offers a nostalgic glimpse into an old-fashioned general store, with Jack depicted as the storekeeper, surrounded by era-appropriate goods. It serves as both a tribute and a centerpiece to the community space.

Streetscape Elements: The hand-crafted benches and screening, created by Flywheel Industrial Arts in Montpelier, VT, invite visitors into the alley. These elements reflect the historic brick buildings, fire escapes, and metal fixtures of Waterbury’s downtown, blending industrial charm with rural warmth.

Egress Enclosure: A key goal for Jack’s Alley is to showcase rotating displays of local artwork. The large wall of the egress provides an ideal backdrop for these exhibitions, ensuring Waterbury's commitment to public art is front and center for all to enjoy.

Jack’s Alley is a space with endless potential, but there’s always more to do. In 2025, this space will come alive with community music and art events, enhanced lighting and additional design features. And of course, ongoing maintenance is crucial to keeping the space thriving. Your support is essential. By contributing, you help keep Jack’s Alley a cornerstone of Waterbury’s dedication to public spaces and the arts. Together, we can make this vision a reality. Thank you for your support.

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Community spaces and public art inspire...conversation, protest, perspective, dreams and action.
Life without these would be dull and colorless.  
- Whitney Aldrich, Waterbury business owner and resident

 

This project is in partnership with These organizations:

Steiner Family

and Area Businesses and Community Members