Consultant outlines POCD edits, proposes rail extension, sewer study and stronger clean‑energy actions

Taylor Gagle, community planner with SLR Consulting, presented proposed edits to the town's 2026 Plan of Conservation and Development, saying the packet incorporates about 65 days of public comments and recommends several new and revised action items. Among the proposals, SLR suggested adding an implementation action to "promote increased Amtrak intercity rail service and the extension of the Shoreline East commuter rail service to the Mystic And Westerly Railroad stations" as a long‑term action involving town planning staff and the Board of Selectmen.

Gagle also addressed water and sewer concerns raised by a local coalition and proposed adding a short‑term implementation item: a feasibility study to assess the extension of sewer and public water facilities to mitigate public‑health and water‑quality concerns. On energy, SLR recommended evaluating town‑owned properties for solar generation and creating a local clean‑energy network to help residents and businesses transition to renewables; the firm recommended assigning study or implementation responsibilities to relevant boards and the town's grants administrator.