If New London were to ever change its logo, I would be happy to see Union Station replace the whaling ship as a central image.

It's hard to underestimate the aesthetic and civic power of the monumental 19th Century brick building, which so dominates the city's downtown and enlivens its skyline. 

Imagine the endless farewells and reunions that have occurred under its enormous slate roof, from embracing lovers to parents greeting or relinquishing children, the region's main portal over generations.

Architect Henry Hobson Richardson's masterpiece has inspired a modern wave of historic renovation. Indeed, it graces the logo of the city's nonprofit preservation organization, New London Landmarks.

More important, today it is inspiring development of the new National Coast Guard Museum, which could be built in its waterfront shadow.

The previous owners of the station, who heroically saved it from the wrecking ball and preserved it for future generations, have been succeeded by a new civic-minded owner who wants to help the station become a portal to the new museum, and to the city's prosperous future.

And now you can buy a good cup of coffee there, too.

Last month, city businessman and real estate developer Anthony Silvestri quietly opened in the station lobby a satellite to his Bank Street coffee shop and restaurant, Carmelo's Bean & Leaf.

It's actually called Carmelo's Steam Carriage, a nod to the last restaurant that was open in the train station, Anthony' Steam Carriage.

I don't know quite how long it's been since Anthony's was open there, but there are probably college students here born after it closed.

It is heartening to see the new life in that corner of the big station lobby again. I like to think of it as a harbinger of all the good things to come there.

Indeed, plans already are unfolding, Silvestri says, even before the museum is developed, to make greater use of the station.

New elevators are being installed to make the upper floor offices accessible. And a rental car station is planned for the first floor.

Silvestri said the café has been successful so far, and there are tentative plans to possibly make it more permanent, with a more dedicated space built into the new lobby.

The café, which also offers Wi-Fi, is designed to cater to travelers who can either eat at tables or take the food and drinks on a train.

Food includes sandwiches, salads and an assortment of chips, desserts and candies. There are also some convenience items for travelers.

Silvestri said he primarily is aiming at travelers. But the coffee shop, he said, is one of the few places open at 5 a.m. and seems to be attracting local early birds.

It's a convenience for travelers, but it's also a good place to put you in a travel state of mind, even if you are staying in town.

I'm glad to see it because I think of it as a harbinger of so many good things to come, a reawakening within New London's own civic, secular cathedral.

This is the opinion of David Collins.

d.collins@theday.com

Twitter: DavidCollinsct