To the Editor:

A bill in Hartford, SB-673, provides for the town of Newtown to use the property at 6 Commerce Road for recreational and open space purposes. I strongly ask that residents consider writing to our representatives in Hartford in support of this bill.

For many years, members of my family and I and our dogs have enjoyed walking that property. It is one of the few open parcels in town which is easily accessible, is relatively flat making it appropriate for use by residents of all ages, and offers lovely views of Newtown hillsides.

From an environmental standpoint it is a grassland/meadow habitat, supporting birds, butterflies and many other pollinators. By looking at a map one can see that it is part of a larger collection of parcels which together create a fairly large swath of undeveloped land. These larger parcels are so important as they offer habitats for many different species, adding to the biodiversity and health of the area.

Additionally, this particular parcel borders the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary as well as providing protection for Deep Brook, a Class A trout stream.

Newtown has undergone a series of development proposals in the last three years, some of which will become reality. This underscores the need to balance development with preservation of open spaces, especially ones which are so environmentally sensitive, such as the one at 6 Commerce Road.

Since SB-673 is a Newtown issue, it will be up to Rep Bolinsky, Rep Foncello and Sen Hwang to “sell” this to the other committee members so that it can be raised and a hearing can be held. Please let them know of your desire to protect this parcel for future generations.

Mary Gaudet-Wilson

Newtown