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Perched at the edge of Long Island Sound in Stratford, Connecticut, the historic Stratford Point Lighthouse is entering a new chapter. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has announced that this iconic beacon is now available for transfer at no cost to eligible organizations under the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act (NHLPA) of 2000.
First established in 1822, the current 35-foot-tall cast-iron lighthouse was built in 1881 and holds the distinction of being the first prefabricated cast-iron lighthouse in Connecticut. In recognition of its architectural and historical value, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
The opportunity to acquire this piece of American maritime heritage is open to government agencies, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and community development entities. The lighthouse is offered alongside three accompanying structures on a 0.58-acre parcel at 1275 Prospect Drive. Its location, just a mile from Bridgeport-Sikorsky Airport and a few miles from I-95, makes it both accessible and scenic.
While the Stratford Point Lighthouse still serves as an active aid to navigation operated by the U.S. Coast Guard, the agency will retain access to the site to maintain its navigational function even after the property changes hands.
The Town of Stratford currently holds a license for the site, but the federal government’s decision to transfer ownership aims to ensure its continued preservation and adaptive reuse. Potential stewards of the lighthouse are encouraged to explore its possible uses—whether for cultural programming, educational initiatives, or historical interpretation.
GSA’s New England Region Real Property Utilization and Disposal Division is overseeing the process, continuing its work in repurposing surplus federal properties for public benefit throughout the region and beyond, including parts of the Midwest and the Caribbean.
For those who have a passion for preserving coastal heritage and maritime history, Stratford Point Lighthouse presents a rare opportunity to become the caretaker of a national treasure.
Letters of interest should be directed to:
U.S. General Services Administration
Office of Real Property Disposition
1800 F Street, NW
Washington, DC
Attention: Samantha Tremaine (samantha.tremaine@gsa.gov)
For complete details on the property, including condition, range of possible uses, commercial activities, utilities, etc., eligible entities can review the
Notice of Availability on the GSA website at https://disposal.gsa.gov/s/noticetypedetail?type=Lighthouse%20Screening
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