Commission refers mixed‑use Middlesex Turnpike proposal to zoning, asks that sidewalks be considered

Old Saybrook’s Planning Commission on July 5 voted to send a favorable referral on two linked applications from Triple T Enterprises for properties at 348 and 350 Middlesex Turnpike, recommending the zoning commission consider requiring sidewalks as part of any site plan or map amendment.

Ed Cassella, representing the applicant, described façade improvements at the Kenny’s Pizza building (including repainting brick and installing uniform awnings and signage), reconfigured parking and landscaping, and an L‑shaped rear building that would house two apartments under the town’s mixed‑use rules plus three bays for auto repair and a commercial detailer. Cassella said the plan adds screening and overflow parking and seeks to consolidate curb cuts to improve safety and appearance.

Commissioners pressed whether adding apartments at this Route 154 location is appropriate given limited pedestrian connectivity; several members noted the corridor has been on the town’s sidewalk plan for two decades. The commission asked that, if the zoning commission moves the application forward, it consider requiring sidewalks to improve walkability alongside the added residential units.

A motion to refer both the summary‑review application and the special exception favorably, with the recommendation that zoning consider requiring sidewalks consistent with the sidewalk plan, was seconded and approved by voice vote. Staff will forward the commission’s comments and the referral to the zoning commission.