The Price We Will Pay For A Tech Park

To the Editor:

I am writing this letter to request that Newtown residents take time to understand and consider the environmentally harmful effects of constructing the proposed technology park at the junction of Deep Brook and Old Farm Road. If completed, the technology park will contribute to:

1. Air pollution — an estimated 1,000 cars will be commuting to the park buildings, in addition to any potential pollutants generated by the corporations therein;

2. Noise pollution — again, the increased traffic including commuters and delivery trucks;

3. Visual pollution — lovely views from Castle Hill, Walnut Tree Hill, Queen Street, and Grand Place will all be marred by the presence of the ten commercial buildings and parking lots. Any visitors to Al’s Trail will have their tranquil natural enjoyment abruptly ruined by the park’s presence.

In addition, there is real risk of town water pollution since the proposed park is on an important aquifer recharge area. Any exposure of Deep Brook itself to new pollutants will almost certainly damage the population of brook trout which has existed there for centuries.

Agricultural and historical concerns also deserve careful consideration — this is pristine agricultural land on which early American settlers met and transacted with the Pootatuck Indians.

Finally, all of the above issues should be scrutinized with respect to the health, safety, and environmental education of children attending nearby schools (Reed, Hawley, St Rose, Middle and High).

Our town faces a huge, irrevocable loss with the construction of this technology park. I ask Newtown voters to become familiar with all repercussions of this construction and exercise what is in fact their choice in the matter.

Sincerely,

Mary Kaley

5 Winslow Road, Newtown                                        January 10, 2007