Trail project planned along Goodwin Street affecting wetlands and watercourses

The Inland Wetlands Commission of Torrington, Connecticut, convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss the proposed multi-use trail project along the former Conrail railway. The meeting focused on the environmental impact of the project, particularly concerning wetland and watercourse areas.

The project area includes a greenway parcel at 50 Goodwin Street and extends from the intersection of Farley Place and McDermott Avenue to Newfield Road. During the site investigation, several wetland and watercourse resource areas were identified, which were highlighted in the presentation. The proposed trail aims to utilize the existing rail bed to minimize environmental disruption.

The discussion began with an overview of the existing conditions, including wetland areas and the planned trail route. The southern end of the trail, starting at McDermott Avenue and Farley Place, was noted to have no regulated resource areas, indicating no expected impacts in that section. As the trail progresses northward, it will run alongside the Ocean State Job Lot Plaza, where some regulated activities will occur within the upland review areas.

A significant point of concern was the proposed parking lot at the end of Goodwin Street, which will require a small wetland impact of approximately 28 square feet. This area is believed to be manmade and associated with stormwater drainage. The project aims to maintain hydrologic connections between wetland systems by installing stormwater conveyance structures, including reinforced concrete pipes.

The total projected impact includes about 3,500 square feet of direct wetland and watercourse impacts, primarily from clearing vegetation and grading for the trail. Additionally, approximately 1.5 acres of activities will occur within various upland review areas. The commission emphasized the importance of minimizing impacts to wetland areas throughout the planning process.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions and comments from the commission members, indicating a collaborative approach to addressing environmental concerns while advancing the trail project. The next steps will involve further evaluations and potential adjustments to the project plan based on feedback received during the meeting.