During the recent Town of Stratford Inland Wetlands Commission meeting on November 20, 2024, discussions centered around a proposed condominium project that aims to balance development with environmental protection. The project, located near Cut Spring Road, has raised concerns regarding its proximity to local wetlands and the potential impact on stormwater management.

The developers presented a detailed site plan, highlighting that the construction will maintain a 100-foot setback from the wetland area. This decision is crucial for preserving the natural habitat and minimizing disturbances. The only planned intrusion into the Upland Review Area involves a private sewer extension, which will connect to a manhole and service the upper units of the development. Importantly, the developers assured that no grading or clearing would occur in the sensitive areas, with efforts made to keep the surrounding environment as natural as possible.

To address potential erosion and sediment runoff during construction, a comprehensive soil erosion control plan has been proposed. This includes the installation of silt fences and silt sacks at catch basins to filter water before it reaches the wetland. The developers also outlined a stormwater management strategy designed to reduce runoff during various storm events, promising significant reductions in flow rates that could otherwise contribute to flooding in the area.

The project aims to mitigate flooding risks by decreasing stormwater discharge rates during 2, 10, and 25-year storm events. The developers reported a reduction in flow rates from 0.29 cubic feet per second (CFS) to 0.19 CFS for the 2-year storm, and from 4.5 CFS to 2.8 CFS for the 25-year storm, indicating a proactive approach to managing water runoff.

The meeting underscored the importance of balancing development needs with environmental stewardship, as community members expressed interest in how the project would affect local ecosystems and water quality. The commission's ongoing discussions will continue to focus on ensuring that the project aligns with the town's environmental goals while addressing housing needs. As the project progresses, residents will be keenly watching how these plans unfold and their implications for the local community.