Richard C. Lee

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Richard Charles Lee (March 12, 1916 - February 2, 2003) (sometimes called ""Mr. Urban America") was the longest serving Mayor of New Haven (1954-70) and also the youngest when he held the position in 1954 at age 37. Lee is best known for his leading role in urban redevelopment in the 1950s and 60s.

[edit] Biography

Lee was born in New Haven. After being defeated for mayor in 1949 and 1951, he won in 1954. He died of diabetes and heart disease at the age of 86.

On May 17, 1999, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) dedicated the Richard C. Lee Courthouse in downtown New Haven to Lee. DeLauro worked with Senators Christopher Dodd and Joseph Lieberman to rename the federal building, which stands at 141 Church Street.

[edit] See also

• Oak Street Connector, also known as the Richard C. Lee Highway - a freeway in downtown New Haven named after the former mayor

Preceded by William C. Celentano

Mayors of New Haven, Connecticut 1954 — 1970

Succeeded by '