Norwalk State Heritage Park is a mixed urban waterfront development project based around the estuary of the Norwalk River, a small yet complex and important ecological system. The Norwalk River flows into Long Island Sound and thus into the Atlantic Ocean. The estuary and its group of islands are an example of the delicate balance between great natural beauty and frequent human use.

The shores of the estuary display the whole panoply of urban uses: industrial, commercial, residential and recreational. Norwalk is famed for its traditional oyster industry and among the largest oyster producing ports in the nation. Local sensitivity to the environment is enhanced by this important commercial activity, which is wholly dependent on the quality of water flowing over the oyster beds at the mouth of the estuary.

The City of Norwalk considers this waterfront oasis a treasure. On June 2, 2001, in conjunction with Norwalk's 350th anniversary, the area will officially become the Norwalk State Heritage Park. It will include museums, an amphitheater, visitor's center, boardwalk, fishing piers, boat docks, artwork and children's playgrounds that will inspire visitors to spend leisurely days enjoying the area's many attractions.

The success of Norwalk State Heritage Park depends upon maintaining its water quality and is monitored by several public and private groups. While the effort is strongly supported with federal and state funding, the cooperative efforts and vision of city government, private businesses, corporations and local non-profits, is crucial.