Development Impact

Fig. 1 Subdivision Plan	Fig. 3 Subdivision Plan w/Legend
Fig. 2  Amended Wetland Map	Fig. 4  Trails That Will Be Lost

Figure 1 (upper left): On May 10, 2005 EWS presented this subdivision plan for the 450 acres west of Bushy Hill Road on an informal basis to the Simsbury Planning Commission. This plan was also presented at Reunion Weekend and at many alumnae luncheons throughout 2005 and into 2006. The map includes the roads, subdivision lots, and a preliminary wetlands map of the land to be developed. The proposed lots, wetlands, and wetlands buffer zone are outlined, but green, light green and yellow fills are used throughout. This gives the misleading impression that the development is minimally invasive and would leave plenty of open space for recreation and equestrian use.

Figure 2 (lower left): On July 19, 2005 the Simsbury Conservation Commission approved the amended wetland map submitted by EWS. This map includes some wetland areas not delineated on the original subdivision plan of Fig. 1.

Figure 3 (upper right): This is again the subdivision plan of Fig. 1 but with the roads, wetlands, regulated uplands, and subdivision lots clearly delineated with different colors to give a clearer impression of its impact on the land.  With the exception of the meadow on Bushy Hill Road, nearly all of the unregulated area is consumed by the subdivision, including a designated habitat preservation area.

Figure 4 (lower right): This map was distributed in previous years by shops in Simsbury and West Simsbury and shows many of the trails used for equestrian and other recreational activities. The trail system is compared with the proposed subdivision and red x's placed where the two conflict. The trail system will be lost if the development proceeds.

NOTE:  The wetland buffers shown in Fig. 1 and 3 are approximately 75 foot buffers.  Current wetland regulations call for 100 foot buffers.  Vernal pools (several, but not delineated in the figures) should be buffered by 750 feet.