The Norwalk Planning & Zoning Commission on a voice vote approved a temporary construction easement for property at 7789 Connecticut Avenue so the city can apply for grants to build a sidewalk and related pedestrian improvements.
The measure, introduced by city staff as a condition of a previously approved Costco application, will allow the city to seek funding and, if awarded, to place an easement across private property where a future sidewalk is planned. City staff said the easement is a preemptive step to enable grant applications for a sidewalk that may eventually extend over the bridge on Connecticut Avenue.
Commission discussion was brief. A motion to approve the easement was made and seconded; the chair called for a show of hands and the motion passed. One commissioner stated an abstention before the roll call was completed. The chair confirmed the commission had a quorum for the vote.
The action is procedural: it authorizes staff to accept the easement instrument and proceed with grant applications but does not commit city construction funds or schedule work. City staff said Transportation, Mobility and Parking and other departments have been engaged on the related road and pedestrian improvements and that the easement is intended to let the city seek outside funding.
The commission did not attach construction timing or budgetary conditions to the approval; the conversation noted further agency approvals and grant awards would be required before any construction.