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Consider the Effects

I recently attended a presentation for a elderly facility in East Haven on Sperry Drive. The developer is seeking a zone change to allow more than 500 apartments located in six buildings with four floors located on different site locations, and 700 scattered parking spaces. The proposed location is the now-defunct Camp Murray Girl Scout Camp less than one half mile from Branhaven Drive and the North Branford town line.

A similar project was proposed for a parcel of land on Branhaven Drive 25 years ago. The project was never approved.

Some concerns of residents at this time include the extensive blasting that would be required on the building site because of rock concentrations. Where and how will the displaced water affect nearby residents and possible additional Farm River flooding? Environmental concerns include clearing old trees, and effects on a designated bird sanctuary, a water shed area, open space and a wetlands area.

How enforceable are the bylaws in these apartments concerning age restrictions and children? Will these 500-plus apartments generate more traffic than this area can absorb? Examples include friends and family visiting, medical appointments, maintenance, delivery services, and emergency vehicles. Think about it; do the math.

Within 1 ½ miles from this proposed site we have two high schools, two elementary schools, two churches, two trucking companies, a large sports complex, and trucks traveling back and forth six days a week delivering and picking up a load from Tilcon. During construction of this proposed facility, how will construction equipment enter and exit this location without causing any safety concerns for drivers on Route 80?

Hopefully the zoning board will consider East Haven a small shoreline community, and the effect a large project like this will have on the quality of life on Foxon residents and visitors.

Anthony Martone

East Haven