Shelton commission reports favorably on citypurchase of 2.54-acre state parcel on Bridgeport Avenue

The Shelton Planning and Zoning Commission voted 5-0 Wednesday to report favorably on an 08/24 referral asking the mayor to purchase a strip of state-owned land along Bridgeport Avenue (Route 714).

The referral, submitted to the commission by city staff and read into the record, describes the parcel as a “release area equaling approximately 2.54 more or less acres” on a DOT map dated December 2024. The memo says the release area abuts property owned by Crown Point Associates of Shelton 2 LLC and notes the city has a first right of refusal on the parcel.

Commissioners had no substantive questions during the hearing. Commissioner Kelly moved to report favorably; the motion was seconded and carried on a roll-call vote: Commissioner Kelly — aye; Commissioner Appel — yes; Commissioner Christiano — aye; Commissioner McGee — aye; Virginia Harger, chairperson — aye. The commission recorded the vote as 5 to 0 in favor.

Why it matters: a favorable report on an 08/24 referral is a required step for a municipality that wishes to buy state-owned right-of-way or other DOT land. The purchase would give the city direct control of the strip, which the referral memo says abuts a private development application already before planning and zoning.

Next steps: staff will note the commission's favorable report for the mayor and the Board of Aldermen. If the mayor pursues the purchase, the city must complete the administrative and funding steps required by state law and DOT procedures before the transaction closes.

Provenance: the referral memo and the roll-call vote were read into the record and recorded during the meeting.