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Neighbor opposes proposed Broad Street–Baldwin Pond trail, raises crime and flooding concerns
Summary
Resident Scott Janko opposed a proposed linear trail through Broad Street and near Baldwin Pond, arguing the corridor’s local crime problems, dirt-bike use and flooding make it unsuitable despite general support for rails-to-trails in other communities.
During public comment, Scott Janko of 252 North Wall Street urged the council not to advance a proposed linear trail from Broad Street toward Baldwin Pond. Janko said the section of Meriden the trail would cross has high crime and flooding risks, and he argued the route would become a pathway for dirt bikes and other disruptive uses.
Janko said he supports rails-to-trails projects elsewhere, but warned that in this stretch of Meriden the police would be unable to monitor the trail effectively and that storm drains in the area could make the trail a conduit for floodwaters. He told the council he had spoken with police officers and cited examples of daily dirt-bike activity and concerns about sight lines and access points.
The comment was presented as part of public input; city staff or council did not announce a redesign or decision at the meeting. Janko asked the council to consider neighborhood safety and flooding before proceeding with the trail plan.
