Take The Opportunity To Enjoy Newtown’s Open Spaces

By Kendra Bobowick

“We’re starting to get calls, ‘I saw signs…’” said Deputy Director of Planning and Land Use Rob Sibley. Town of Newtown Open Space signs are going up on much of the roughly 2,000 acres within the town’s 300 parcels of open space.

Bright yellow diamond-shaped markers are posted at eye level or higher, marking entrances and boundaries for town space. Nearby will be a larger marker indicating the parcel’s general information and uses.

Conservation Commission Chairman Joe Hovious said Thursday, “There are some neat properties around town that people may not know about.”

Regarding the recent inquiries, Mr Sibley said, “People are beginning to realize open space is all around them.” Through approximately $10,000 in grants and a small and dwindling budget line item for the purpose, the Land Use Agency has purchased the signs that depict “where it is and how to use,” open spaces in Newtown.

“We’re hoping to identify the properties so people will understand where they are and will take the opportunity to use them, and respect them,” Mr Hovious said. He also anticipates “getting some trail activity going.” Scout projects and the Newtown Trails Committee are already at work on several projects for town-owned spaces.

Mr Sibley explained, “We have about 2,000 town-owned acres we are hoping to mark over the next few years. Our current funds and signs will be exhausted by this summer and will probably only handle a quarter of our properties.”

The general information sign begins, “This parcel is maintained for the use and enjoyment of the public…” It asks that residents “carry out what [they] carry in,” “leave no trace of your visit here,” “be considerate of other visitors,” “respect wildlife,” and more. The information and boundary markers are “the beginning of a major movement to make sure properties are properly exercised, protected, and the town can get out and enjoy them,” Mr Sibley said. “The public will know where to go.”

He notes that neighbors may not realize that a gap between houses and backyards, for example, is actually accessible for walking or hiking. The town is finally catching up to the Newtown Forest Association’s work, he said. “They have really shown us the way to care for open space.” Mr Sibley also wants to enhance “good neighbor” relationships so that parcels receive good stewardship and care.

The Conservation Commission is among town groups working diligently to mark and care for the town’s open spaces, Mr Sibley said.

Soon the town website at Newtown-ct.gov will also include open space parcel information.