Rosenthal Outlines Playing Field Prospects

(The following open letter has been received for publication.)

Dear Newtown Athletic Organizations:

Thank you for your letter regarding the position of the senior officers of Newtown’s athletic organizations concerning athletic fields and the Fairfield Hills property.

I share your concern about the need for additional playing fields and have supported and will continue to support the development of fields. The Board of Selectmen and Legislative Council have approved the Parks and Recreation Commission request for funds to design playing fields on the Amaral property (approximately 6.5 acres). This property was turned over to Parks and Recreation by the current Board of Selectmen.

There will be additional playing fields at the new 5/6 school whether at Cochran House or on the 22 acres the town currently owns. If Cochran House is the site, then most of the 22 acres at the Watertown Hall/garage site could be developed for fields.

I have asked the state to consider whether we can either exchange three of the acres we own on Queen Street or purchase 3 to 5 acres of agricultural land east of Queen Street across from Borough Lane to construct some soccer fields. The Board of Selectmen is also considering the development of 10 acres of open space on Old Farm Hill Road for baseball/softball fields. In addition, the town is considering the acquisition of a future elementary school site which would have 10 to 12 acres of playing fields for future use.

The potential total of the foregoing is 30 to 40 acres of new playing fields. I certainly believe that the town’s vision for the Fairfield Hills property includes maintaining the current number and adding some more playing fields. However, I believe that the cost per acre of this property is such that the highest and best use is not a 40-acre sports complex.

Sincerely,

Herbert C. Rosenthal

First Selectman

45 Main Street, Newtown                                 November 18, 1999