Last week, “06880” reported on a bill making its way through the General Assembly that could prohibit Connecticut towns from charging higher beach access fees to non-residents than residents.
Another bill introduced this week could cause even greater changes.
Bill #5429 — “An Act Concerning Transit-Oriented Development” — was introduced by the Planning and Development Committee. It would allow “as of right” development of up to 15 units per acre within a half-mile radius of any rail station. Ten percent of the units would be “affordable,” as defined by state statute. (Towns could opt to increase the affordable component.)
As written, that would allow a developer to acquire and tear down some of Westport’s most affordable current housing — around Franklin Street, Saugatuck Avenue and Hiawatha Lane — and replace it with luxury condos or apartments. Only one or two would have to fit the “affordable” criteria.
Some of Westport’s most affordable housing, like these homes on Saugatuck Avenue, could become luxury units …
It would also allow a developer to buy a home on Stony Point — the exclusive road off the Westport train station eastbound parking lot — and tear it down. In its place, he could build 15 condos or apartments, with the same provisions as above.
The half-mile radius from that train station extends toward Saugatuck Shores; across the river to include portions of Imperial Avenue, Bridge Street, Ferry Lane East and Manitou, and along Riverside Avenue.
But we’ve got 2 train stations in town. The bill would impact Greens Farms too, opening the door to 15 housing units per acre within a half-mile radius. That includes Greens Farms Road — and Beachside Avenue. Wetlands and land in the flood zone would be exempted.
… and so (conceivably) could property on Beachside Avenue.
A public hearing is set for this Monday (March 14, 10 a.m.). Residents wishing to testify virtually must register here by 3 p.m. Sunday.
Click here for the full text of Bill #5429.