Torrington updates trail routing and bridge planning; easement terms altered Red Mountain Trail alignment
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Summary
Staff told the Conservation Commission the Red Mountain Trail alignment shifted to the rail bed after Eversource easement terms proved unacceptable; a planning grant was submitted for a bridge over the Naugatuck, and the new routing requires updated Planning & Zoning approvals.
The Torrington Conservation Commission received updates on the Red Mountain Trail and related bridge planning. Staff said earlier negotiations for a route through an Eversource easement failed because the utility’s terms would have allowed Eversource to require removal of trail infrastructure without cause, making long‑term investment untenable. As a result, the recommended alignment was changed to follow an existing rail bed where grading is minimal and easement complications are reduced.
The redesign will require Planning & Zoning approvals for the new section, and staff said wetlands impact is lower on the rail‑bed alignment. The change may alter neighborhood access (Goodwin, North Elm and Newfield Road) compared with the previous routing but is expected to simplify permitting and construction. Staff also reported submission of a planning-grant application to study a pedestrian/maintenance bridge conversion over the Naugatuck River (railroad bridge reuse discussed); the commission discussed phased planning and the potential need for Army Corps and wetlands permitting.
Commissioners asked staff to update project files and indicated support for moving forward with the rail‑bed alignment and continuing to pursue design and grant options. Staff estimated design and administrative work to be complete through permitting in the coming year, with construction dependent on subsequent funding.