Residents Turn Out in Droves to Discuss Halls Road, Other Zoning Issues
Old Lyme's Zoning Commission is undertaking a comprehensive overhaul of its zoning regulations, drawing significant public input at a recent workshop. Residents expressed concerns over development, traffic, environmental impacts, and water/sewer capacity, with data centers topping a survey list of unwanted businesses. The two-year process is halfway complete, with the commission still gathering information.
The Old Lyme Zoning Commission held its final public workshop in a three-part series to gather input for a comprehensive overhaul of the town's zoning regulations. Over 260 residents attended, making it the largest workshop in 25 years for lead consultant Francisco Gomes of IMEG. The primary focus of public concern was Halls Road development, although no specific proposals were on the table that evening.
Residents expressed familiar concerns about traffic, environmental impacts, and water and sewer capacity, advocating for development that remains in scale with the surrounding area and preserves the town's charm. A town-wide survey, which has garnered 800 responses, indicated strong opposition to certain types of businesses, with data centers, warehousing, and gravel pits topping the list of those residents do not want in town.
Discussions also covered commercial districts on Route 156 and Boston Post Road, with IMEG facilitators Toni Pignatelli and Raul Irizarry noting broad allowances for commercial uses but also exploring potential zone combinations and the impact of Electric Boat's expanding workforce. The Flood & Erosion Control Board has recommended tightening restrictions on placing fill in flood-prone areas, a proposal that DiMillo’s Yacht Sales President Sean O’Malley commented on, highlighting the specific needs of boatyards and marinas. The two-year zoning rewrite process is halfway complete and expected to continue through 2027, with the Zoning Commission still in the information-gathering stage.