Save Our Town

To the Editor:

Several months ago our neighborhood was faced with the prospect of 56 age-restricted condos in a very scenic and minimally developed area of town. With the support of neighbors and other members of our community we successfully stopped this irresponsible development. In the meantime 54 age-restricted condos have been approved near Fairfield Hills and the high school. Another 178 age-restricted condos are most likely to be approved next to the Liberty development on Route 6 in the very near future.

An out-of-town developer now is proposing 23 condos on a four-acre lot very near Sandy Hook center. Several years ago a very attractive vintage colonial home was destroyed by a fire on this proposed lot. Instead of rebuilding a home that matches the historic character of the surrounding homes, the developer wants to destroy the beautiful stonewalls, cut most if not all the trees, and tear down the old barn that remains. Much of the charm of Sandy Hook lies in the nicely restored and maintained homes along Walnut Tree Hill, Church Hill Road, Dayton Street, Glen Road, and Washington Avenue. Everyone should be reminded of the amazing redevelopment project accomplished by Newtown residents Jane and John Vouros. Their new and historically-inspired home and B&B near the flagpole (coincidentally on the site of the burned down Yankee Drove Inn) is a perfect example of new construction blending perfectly with the neighboring historic homes and small businesses.

In order for Sandy Hook to finally become a destination and an area known for its thriving small businesses and New England charm, we cannot allow this development to be approved. The town with money from the state has begun to redevelop the center with sidewalks, improved parking, landscaping, and attractive lighting. We need to encourage this kind of revitalization and preservation of historic structures by not changing our zoning regulations to allow these condos to be built. We invite everyone in the community to make your voice heard and protect not only Sandy Hook center but other threatened areas in town. We are hosting an informational open house on Monday, March 13, 7–8:30 pm, at the Mocha Coffeehouse in Sandy Hook.

Morgen McLaughlin

Albert’s Hill Road, Sandy Hook                                     March 6, 2006