Scott Lifschultz, executive vice president of GVA Williams of Connecticut, represented building owner Tartaglia Associates. Brian Schuster of Ripco Real Estate in Jericho, Long Island handled the negotiations for Golfsmith International. Golfsmith is scheduled to open its Norwalk store in the late fall or early winter of this year.

Golfsmith International is a golf superstore retailer with 26 locations throughout the United States and Canada. The firm will occupy the former Zany Brainy space at the retail complex. Other tenants in the 25,000-sf shopping center include American Steakhouse, Radio Shack and Today's Tan. The shopping center is located across the street from the new Wal-Mart and Home Goods locations.

Commenting on the deal, GVA Williams' Lifschultz says, "Lower Fairfield County is an extension of the strong Westchester County retail market and Connecticut Avenue in Norwalk is one of the most regional shopping destinations in Fairfield County. Golfsmith recognized the depth of the retail market here and chose to capitalize on the population density and high income levels."

He also noted that Golfsmith International is opening a store at another former Zany Brainy location on Central Ave. in Scarsdale, NY next to the Buy, Buy Baby location. The stores in Norwalk and Scarsdale will be the chain's only locations in Connecticut and New York, respectively.

Connecticut Ave. in Norwalk is a haven for many national retailers including the Sports Authority, Barnes & Noble, the Home Depot, Kohl's and Old Navy. In addition, Costco, Wal-Mart, Home Goods, the Vitamin Shoppe and Pier One Imports have opened locations on Connecticut Avenue in the last few years.