Sandy Hook Center—

Mixed-Use Redevelopment Project Under Review

By Andrew Gorosko

Police Commission members have conditionally endorsed a local builder/developer’s traffic plans submitted in connection with his proposal for the mixed-use redevelopment of a property on Church Hill Road in Sandy Hook Center.

Acting as the local traffic authority, commission members on September 2 conditionally endorsed the traffic aspects Michael Burton’s proposal for Betts Square at 107 Church Hill Road. Mr Burton is doing business as Pootatuck Rentals, LLC.

Mr Burton described plans for the project to commission members. The work would involve renovating and expanding the circa-1843 Betts House on the site, plus constructing two new buildings on the 1.75-acre property that borders the Pootatuck River.

The space would be used for professional offices, retail stores, and apartments. The property lies in the Sandy Hook Design District (SHDD) zone where such mixed-use properties are encouraged by the zoning regulations.

The site would be served by two existing driveways and hold parking spaces for 57 vehicles. Bennett Sullivan Associates of Southbury is the architect.

Police Commission Chairman Carol Mattegat said the presence of a redeveloped 107 Church Hill Road would improve Sandy Hook Center.

Mr Burton said there is a shortage of suitable office space in that area.

The Inland Wetlands Commission (IWC) was scheduled to review the riverine aspects of the Betts Square project on the night of September 10. The IWC is reviewing the project because it abuts the Pootatuck River.

The Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) has scheduled a public hearing for September 18 on Mr Burton’s application for a special permit. The P&Z will review the traffic aspects of the project as described in a traffic study prepared for Mr Burton.