Finding A Middle Ground

At Fairfield Hills

To the Editor:

I was disheartened to read that the town received no proposals for the development of Fairfield Hills within the recent deadline for submission. What was most discouraging, however, was to read that the town “leaders” were actually not displeased and even intimated that they are content to deal with the development of Fairfield Hills on an “as needed basis.” Furthermore, after all these years, no one has a clear vision for its use other than for the 5/6 school and athletic fields, and our town leaders appear paralyzed by inertia.

There are those who favor no development and those who favor the development of a corporate park. I believe there is a middle ground which can address both the need for tax revenue as well as the civic needs of our town.

First, we do need the 5/6 school and Fairfield Hills is an ideal location. Second, we need some space for athletic fields, which it also provides. Third, we could create a town center with a village green around which there could be shops, restaurants, etc. on the ground level, and professional offices on the upper levels, similar to what Westport or Ridgefield have created. The town has approached development as a means only to create housing, costing the town additional revenue as we struggle to provide municipal services and schooling. Growth without planning could mean the difference between creating a vital and attractive Newtown or creating a sprawling suburban town made up of strip malls, with no heart or center.

By centralizing services and businesses, combined with a cultural center and YMCA, we could create a place where our citizens, young and old, could enjoy a sense of community where they can meet and interact as they engage in business around the “town.” We should strive to maintain the integrity of the buildings when possible, and new construction should be consistent with the existing architecture, creating a unified and pleasing environment.

It is time for our town leaders, and citizenry, to show some vision and take action in the shaping of the future of our town in an environmentally, socially, and architecturally responsible manner. Let us not squander this opportunity.

Sincerely,

Marina Moscovici

41 Berkshire Road, Sandy Hook                                  May 1, 2001