By Susan MacEachron

The Inland Wetlands Agency determined there was no need for a public hearing to approve the construction of a temporary bridge over Smith Road. First Selectman Matt Riiska informed Wetlands, at its meeting on April 7, that the Army Corps of Engineers had approved the plan, and he was waiting for approval by the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP). 

Riiska said that DEEP has been reviewing the plans with Cardinal Engineering, the town’s engineering firm, to determine whether the proposed temporary bridge using three culverts could sustain a 100-year flood.  He noted that the site was clear of debris, although Riiska said with hindsight he would have salvaged the culverts that were washed out in 2023.

Riiska said he hopes a permanent bridge on Old Goshen Road with abutments and a precast deck will be completed within two years. The state has committed to pay 100 percent of the costs of constructing two permanent bridges.  All costs to construct the Smith Road temporary bridge must be paid by the town.  Previously Riiska had estimated $150,000 and in a follow up call he confirmed that amount should cover the cost and hopefully get done for less.  Expressing a note of caution regarding the construction of the permanent bridges, Riiska said he was uncertain when funding would be available.

 Wetlands approved construction of the temporary bridge on Smith Road.  

Wetlands Enforcement Officer Stacey Sefcik described a modification to work being done at 305 Mountain Road.  She said that Eversource was requiring the power conduit be replaced and there may have to be a tweak to the raingarden installed as part of the renovation of the property.  Sefcik said she thought the change was minor and arguably puts the conduit further from wetlands, but she wanted agency members to be informed about the change.

Sefcik referenced the March 26 special meeting regarding the proposed new cell tower being considered at 78 Goshen Street East with an accessway off Estey Road. She noted that it was an informational meeting only since the Connecticut Siting Council has jurisdiction.