As Ridgefield residents, we ask the Ridgefield Planning and Zoning Commission to deny the proposed 8-30g application at the Turner Road/Barnum Place location. This application does not satisfy the critical requirements and intended purpose of an affordable housing development and will have a significant negative impact on the safety of the neighboring homeowners and their families. In addition, the site plan does not fit into the character of the community, which includes town open space, single-family homes, and a community swimming pool. See below for additional detail regarding location, safety, and conservation concerns.

Location Issues:

This area has not been highlighted in the town POCD for potential housing focus areas suitable for 8-30g residences.

The property is currently zoned as CDD (commercial), and the PZC has previously objected to it being changed to RAA (residential).

The location is far from public transport, requiring reliance on cars, making it less viable for older residents and those relying on public transportation to commute to work, shop, and attend medical appointments.

The lot size of 1.17 acres is too small for nine townhomes, creating an excessive intensity of use. Also, the application proposes outdoor parking spaces that exceed the residential zone regulations. The zoning laws should not be changed to suit the application.

Safety Issues:

Turner Road’s width from its intersection with Barnum Place along the proposed site is too narrow for emergency vehicles, including fire trucks.

Increased traffic in the Turner Hill neighborhood, where 70 children ride bicycles, scooters, strollers, and run throughout the neighborhood daily, will cause an elevated safety risk should this application be approved.

The units proposed are multi-story and unsuitable for the aging population or people with disabilities.

Conservation Issues:

The proposed units directly border Ridgebury Farms Trail, 94 acres of significant protected town open space (including fragile wetlands), and is home to many species, including large tortoises, which the neighbors actively collaborate to protect. An additional multi-family development will increase the chances of contamination in this precious conservation area.

We are dedicated to preserving the safety, aesthetics, and environment of the neighborhood in which we purchased our homes. We ask that you procure the necessary reports and studies to ensure that any housing development application before the Planning and Zoning Commission shall meet environmental protection and community safety standards, as well as be in full compliance with Ridgefield's Plan of Conservation and Development.

Links:

Affordable housing building proposed at Ridgebury site

Ridgebury affordable project, North Salem Road subdivision head to Jan. 14 public hearings