Thomaston, CT Attorney News Archive

The planned removal of Kinneytown Dam in Ansonia, Connecticut, is set to significantly improve fish migratory paths along the Naugatuck River. Local advocate Kevin Zak highlighted the dam's harmful effects, emphasizing that "Without the removal of this dam, it can never be a river." He underscored the ecological and economic advantages of restoring the river to its natural flow.

The Connecticut Brownfield Land Bank has recently acquired the dam for just $1, creating an opportunity for one of the largest dam removal projects in the state. With state officials, including Rick Dunne, president of the land bank, focused on addressing the hazards posed by the dam's deteriorating condition, the project is expected to begin next year. Demolition could commence as early as 2027.

This initiative represents a crucial step toward environmental rehabilitation and improving the quality of life in nearby communities, according to James Fowler from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) is gearing up to host a series of public discussions focused on flood resilience strategies for towns in Connecticut, including Ansonia, Shelton, and Waterbury. Craig Stevenson, a representative from NVCOG, highlighted the importance of these gatherings as part of the Regional Flood Resilience Project, which seeks to improve vulnerable areas identified in the Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan.

This initiative is backed by a $689,000 grant from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Luchs Consulting Engineers will play a key role in crafting preliminary designs for essential culverts and drainage systems, which are crucial for managing flood risks.

Stevenson noted that by pooling together these smaller-scale projects, municipalities will be better positioned to secure larger grants, which is a vital step in addressing current funding hurdles. The next public session is set for September 10 at NVCOG's office in Waterbury, where design plans will be discussed for Middlebury, Thomaston, Waterbury, and Wolcott.

A powerful thunderstorm swept through the Naugatuck Valley on Wednesday evening, leaving Middlebury residents facing the aftermath of fallen trees and downed power lines. Local resident Shari Morris observed a stark contrast in conditions as she traveled from Thomaston to Middlebury, where heavy rain caused significant disruptions.

Tony Minchella, another local, encountered multiple blocked roads on his route home to Porter Hill Road, illustrating the storm’s impact on local infrastructure. As crews from Eversource work diligently to restore electricity to affected residents, reports of similar incidents have emerged in Woodbury, particularly along Washington Road.

With Connecticut experiencing increasingly severe weather patterns, local authorities are stressing the importance of preparedness. This includes considerations for potential civil litigation related to property damages and the disruptions faced by businesses in the real estate sector.