Residents ask to present Complete Streets plan; PZC discusses septic systems and sign‑code simplification

Members of Bike Walk Bolton asked the Bolton Planning & Zoning Commission to schedule a future presentation of a Complete Streets Plan intended to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.

Bryce Aaronson told the commission Bike Walk Bolton would like to discuss the Complete Streets Plan with the PZC; Sylvia Ounpuu, who said Bike Walk Bolton formed in 2016, summarized the group’s past safety work (bike lanes, signage, children’s programs) and asked for an opportunity to present the plan at a future meeting. Jim Adams told the commission the Complete Streets approach aligns with Vision Zero and recent state legislation. Bike Walk Bolton participant Barbara Amodio highlighted a pledge campaign encouraging residents to observe speed limits and invited PZC members to participate.

Staff updates at the meeting included a report from Patrice Carson on a proposed Route 6 connectivity ride, the Cider Mill property, and appraisals for a French Road subdivision. Carson also reported sharp traffic to the Connecticut’s Countryside website and asked the PZC to encourage local businesses to add free listings. Michael D'Amato said staff are working with the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) to update Bolton’s municipal parcel data; he said the project is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act and will be done at no cost to the town.

The commission also discussed potential changes to subdivision and zoning regulations. Chairman Tom Manning said he spoke with Thad King of the Eastern Highlands Health District about proprietary Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems (SSDS) that the health district approves; Manning recommended the systems be considered for affordable‑housing projects and emailed links to the commission. Staff noted a Table of Uses has been prepared but not yet codified, and Carson said she will circulate the updated table to members.

On signage, staff said the town’s 13‑page Sign Code Regulations are difficult to interpret when computing size requirements; staff recommended shortening and simplifying the rules for more consistent administration. Manning asked about lighting or visibility for the Dollar General driveway at night; Carson said she can ask the property owner to consider improvements but cannot require changes absent an application.

Bike Walk Bolton members requested a future presentation but the commission did not schedule a date at this meeting. The commission adjourned at 8:29 p.m.