P&Z Seeks Changes In Sandy Hook Subdivision

By Andrew Gorosko

Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) members have asked the developers of the proposed Belle Vista residential subdivision off Great Ring Road in Sandy Hook to make some changes to their development plans in light of concerns expressed by the town engineer and health department.

 Jim Klar of Timbermill Associates, LLC, and Lou Trombetta propose 8 lots for 27 acres at 14 Great Ring Road, in the vicinity of Thunder Ridge Road. The developers propose six acres of open space for passive recreation. About 940 feet of new roadway would be constructed to provide access to the houses.

Engineer Curtis Jones of Woodbury represented the applicants at an October 5 public hearing.

Mr Jones told P&Z members that development on the site would be kept off its steeper slopes. More than 43 percent of the site is categorized as either having steep slopes or wetlands.

P&Z Chairman Daniel Fogliano said the open space proposed by the developers is the least desirable section of the site.

Mr Fogliano said the town engineering department and town health department have produced long lists of concerns about the proposed development.

“This plan is fraught with flaws,” he said.

Mr Jones responded that the plan is not flawed, but needs to have some technical issues resolved.

Mr Fogliano said the P&Z needs much new additional information from the applicants before it can consider the subdivision proposal.

Resident Kevin McNerney of 22 Great Ring Road told P&Z members that motorists drive fast on that street. Mr McNerney asked whether the proposed new subdivision road meets the town’s sight line requirements for motorist safety.

Mr Jones responded that the road design satisfies those requirements.

Sight line regulations specify the minimum sight distances that must be available to motorists at intersections to give drivers adequate time to see oncoming motorists before making turns in intersections.

Mr Fogliano said the public hearing on Belle Vista will be reopened at a future P&Z session to allow the applicants time to discuss their proposal with town staff members and to submit revised subdivision mapping.

Mr Jones said the applicants will work with the town in developing revised subdivision plans.