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New Canaan approves replacement of deteriorated culvert on Lakeview Avenue
Summary
The Inland Wetlands Commission unanimously approved a permit for the town to replace a failing culvert on Lakeview Avenue with a larger structure and temporary bypass measures; the approval included a condition requiring as-built drawings after construction.
The New Canaan Inland Wetlands Commission on June 16 unanimously approved the town's application to remove and replace a failing culvert on Lakeview Avenue and to make associated roadway and drainage repairs.
The measure matters because the existing 6-by-5-foot culvert was rated in poor condition and the project is intended to improve hydraulic conveyance on the unnamed brook under Lakeview Avenue while limiting work in the channel.
Keegan Elder of WMC Consulting Engineers presented plans showing a proposed box-style culvert roughly 7 feet by 12 feet, installation of temporary cofferdams and a bypass pipe to allow in-the-dry construction, wing walls and guide rail at the roadway, and restoration of streambed material in the new structure. Elder said Fisheries and other resource agencies were contacted; Fisheries indicated no species of concern and recommended in-channel work during low flow periods and reuse of natural streambed material where practical. Director Kathleen Holland and commissioners pressed for details on embankment stabilization and contractor responsibilities for post-construction seeding and any temporary protections if permanent vegetation could not be established right away.
Commissioners asked about the capacity of the bypass pipe, detour and road closure, property impacts, and necessary approvals beyond wetlands. Elder said the bypass would be sized to convey approximately a 2-year storm for the expected 3'2-month construction duration, that the roadway would be closed with provisions for driveway and emergency access, and that impacts to abutting properties for staging were anticipated and will be addressed through the town's right-of-way process. Elder described phased permitting steps including Connecticut DEEP (401 Water Quality Certification) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers review if the town pursues the Local Bridge Program grant.
Commissioners and staff recommended a special condition requiring submission of as-built drawings upon project completion and discussed standard contract retainage and contractor obligations to ensure slopes and revegetation are stabilized. Town representative Joe Zagurensky confirmed the town would not abandon the project until site stabilization is complete. Commissioner Sandy Redden moved to approve IW-25-23 with the single special condition (as-built submission); Commissioner Daniel Stepanek seconded. The motion passed unanimously by voice vote.
