Our mission is to maximize the vibrancy of the Cornelia Warren Outdoor Rec Area – and empower users to engage in its future.
The Friends of the Warren Recreation Area (FoWRA) is a Westbrook non-profit created to amplify the community’s voice and support the city. We’re excited to have Paul Drinan serving as FoWRA’s first Executive Director.
Our launch celebration on September 2nd, 2025, brought neighbors together at Brea Lu Café for an evening of connection and inspiring words from Westbrook Mayor David Morse and other local leaders. We also unveiled our new logo, designed by Hallie Mitchell, the creative mind behind Discover Downtown Westbrook’s branding.
Learn our purpose and what we hope to help the community achieve
Learn about our funding sources and the history of the Warren Rec Area
Learn more on upcoming events and our work with the municipality and community
Learn more about similar projects and the positive impacts on local communities
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![image of health program [digital project]](https://warrenrecreationarea.glacialsites.com/wp-content/themes/glacial-theme/images/baseball.png)
![[team]](https://warrenrecreationarea.glacialsites.com/wp-content/themes/glacial-theme/images/tennis.png)
![image of health program [digital project]](https://warrenrecreationarea.glacialsites.com/wp-content/themes/glacial-theme/images/splash.jpg)
We're working to transform the Warren Recreation Area into a safer, more accessible, and vibrant gathering place where families can connect, play, and thrive, restoring this cherished space as Westbrook's premier outdoor destination.
The Warren Rec Area has been a beloved community resource for generations. This city-owned space off Main Street has long served as a summertime destination for Westbrook children and families, with a rich heritage dating back to the early 1900s.
An original "swim tank" in the Presumpscot River was replaced in 1947 by a swimming pool, funded primarily by the Cornelia Warren Community Association (CWCA) - a local philanthropy named in honor of S.D. Warren's daughter following her passing in 1921. After a renovation in the 1980s, the pool served the community for decades before being removed in 2022 due to condition and cost concerns.
Phil Spiller, founder of FoWRA, has been a passionate advocate for restoring the area to its former vitality. His vision and dedication led to the creation of our organization and the community gathering that launched this new chapter. Today, FoWRA is committed to bringing thoughtful amenity, safety, and accessibility improvements to the Warren Rec Area, ensuring it serves all members of our community for generations to come.