Sen. Rob Kane’s Proposal to Expand Connecticut Antiques Trail Advances

May 22, 2013

The Connecticut State Senate on May 22 acted favorably on Sen. Rob Kane’s proposal to expand and better advertise the Connecticut Antiques Trail.

The bill, which would take effect on October 1, would require the state to identify major antique dealers, communities that feature a high concentration of antique dealers, and auction houses that have annual sales in excess of $1 million for inclusion in the antiques trail. The state would also develop a program to promote the antiques trail, including signs and notices pertaining to the sites identified by the state, and an Internet web site for the antiques trail.

“The unofficial ‘Antiques Capital of Connecticut’ is Woodbury, but we have antiques dealers in all corners of our state,” Sen. Kane said. “It makes a lot of sense for us to promote those unique, small businesses and get them the attention they deserve. It’s a great way to show we are open for business.”

Sen. Kane noted that one of his constituents in Woodbury approached him in 2009 with the idea for the trail. That year, Sen. Kane worked with the state Department of Transportation to erect signs along Interstate 84 that would direct people onto the trail.

“There are many ancillary businesses which would benefit from this legislation,” Sen. Kane said. “Restaurants, museums, and bed and breakfasts would all see an uptick in business. It’s a chance for residents and visitors to get to know our beautiful state and enjoy its wonderful history and culture. We have much to be proud of, so why not let the world know? Today’s vote shows that persistence in the state legislature eventually pays off.”

The bill now heads to the State House of Representatives.