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The restaurant, a Westport landmark for more than 50 years, closed its doors in July. The restaurant had been operated by the Nistico family since they restored the property in 1983.
The 3.2-acre tract of land at 292 Wilson Road includes the restaurant and a separate house, according to the YMCA, which called the purchase a "unique opportunity."
“This is ... a long-term investment that allows us to preserve neighborhood values and, ultimately, utilize the property for the benefit of our members and the community we have served since 1923,” said YMCA CEO Pat Riemersma.
According to the organization's statement, volunteer leadership has begun developing a plan for the property's future use. The YMCA has established a Limited Liability Company, known as 290 Wilton Road LLC, as part of the transaction.
The Westport Weston Family YMCA previously operated at Bedford Square in downtown Westport. The old buildings were sold and demolished in the spring; a new development on that property is in the construction phase. It will include 60,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and office space and 26 apartments when completed.
The Y moved in August 2014 to a new $38.5 million building on its 32-acre Mahackeno Camp property.
The YMCA in its statement did not disclose the cost of the Red Barn purchase.
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