INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGIES

COMMUNITY FACILITIES

UTILITIES

SUSTAINABILITY RESILIENCY TRANSPORTATION

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MAINTAIN AND ENHANCE COMMUNITY FACILITIES 12

Overview Community facili‐ ties provide for Community facilities support functions such as education, public works, public desired services safety, and recreation, all of which are important to maintaining the character and enhance the and quality of life in Darien. quality of life in The POCD does not get involved in the day‐to‐day operations of individual the community … departments. Rather, the POCD seeks to identify potential community facility needs (buildings and sites) so that they can be anticipated and planned for. The POCD also serves as a useful guide for referrals of proposed municipal im‐ provements (as required by CGS Section 8‐24) for review by the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Education Recreation

Safety Emergency

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Legend Address Community Facility Needs Generally expected to be EDUCATION FACILITIES Assessment adequate for  community Education  Darien public schools are consistently ranked among needs to 2025  Darien High School the best public schools in Connecticut  Darien residents are firmly committed to neighbor‐  Middlesex Middle School hood schools and new residents often purchase May have some based on school districts issues to  Hindley Elementary  consider

 Holmes Elementary  Some elementary schools have been using portable  Ox Ridge Elementary classrooms since the late 1980s Attention  Royle Elementary  None of these 14 classroom spaces are directly appears to be  Tokeneke Elementary attached to the main buildings and so students must needed to meet leave the building each time they go to a portable.  community  These are in fair condition and should be phased out needs to 2025 for security and other purposes 

Not expected to (diverse projections /  Significant HVAC issues exist at Ox Ridge, Holmes and be adequate for capacity not clear) Royle  community  All schools will be examined thoroughly as part of a needs to 2025 proposed building facilities review

  Growth in early childhood education programs (HVAC issues / building systems) (kindergarten and the Early Learning Program) and possible future legislative requirements have an ef‐ fect on school facilities and complicate facility plan‐ ning

 Darien High School cafeteria has been identified as needing expansion in the near term

 Enrollments have been increasing which is counter to the recent State‐wide trend of declining enrollment  BOE has three enrollment projections: o In‐house o NE School Development Council o Milone and MacBroom  Projections hinge on in‐migration patterns  BOE using the highest projections (in‐house) while other projections suggest a decline in enrollments  The number of children that might result from new developments could add strain on school facilities

 Milone and MacBroom is continuing to refine the Facilities Plan  Darien does not have a possible future school site to help address potential current or future needs

 Education facilities also support community meeting, recreation, performance, and art activities

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Darien High School Middlesex Middle School

Hindley Elementary School Holmes Elementary School

Ox Ridge Elementary School Royle Elementary School

Portable Classrooms At Tokeneke Elementary School Royle Elementary School

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Legend GENERAL GOVERNMENT Assessment Generally expected to be  Town Hall  Town Hall moved into the former Darien High School adequate for building in the mid‐1980s  community  Public spaces tend to be generously sized but needs to 2025  department spaces tend to be cramped / inefficient  Lack of storage / meeting rooms can be an issue (investigate renovation /  Interest in improving safety and access amenities May have some expansion options) issues to  consider

Attention PUBLIC WORKS Assessment appears to be  Public Works Garage  Site used by public works, schools, parks, facilities needed to meet  Recycling / Refuse Center maintenance, transfer station  community  Sewer Pump Locations  Public Works garage is inadequate for repair and needs to 2025 storage of equipment  On‐site storage of materials is challenging Not expected to  Addition is being planned to address needs be adequate for   Recycling/refuse operations appear to work well (expand public works garage)  community needs to 2025  Long term expansion potential might be created by

relocating commuter parking from the Leroy West lot

and making a “back door” connection along the rail‐ road tracks to the Public Works site

Town Hall Public Works

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Private Facilities PARKS AND RECREATION Assessment Darien also has a number of Beaches  The two beaches are considered to be the “jewels” of private recreation facilities  Pear Tree Point the Darien parks and recreation programs which help meet community  Weed Beach  An expansion project at Weed Beach is currently needs and desires: underway  Country Club of Darien Active Outdoor Recreation  Wee Burn Country Club  Baker Park  Community participation in recreational activities is  Woodway Country Club  Cherry Lawn Park high so demand for facilities is high  YMCA  Holahan Fields  Ox Ridge Hunt Club  McGuane Park  Since Darien is mostly built out, the challenge will be  Middlesex Club to make the most effective use of the active outdoor  Noroton Yacht Club Passive Outdoor Recreation recreation facilities the Town currently has:  Darien Boat Club o Resting grass fields (challenging due to use)  Frate Park  Tokeneke Club o Artificial turf to withstand use / extend seasons  Selleck’s Woods  Stony Brook Park o Lighting to extend daily use / extend seasons  Tilley Pond Park o Irrigation to withstand use  Woodland Park  Would like to acquire land with a priority placed on land adjacent to existing facilities Indoor Programs  School facilities also provide for recreational use  Town / School Buildings  Cherry St. property provides connection to Town Hall Other Properties and Holahan Fields  Cherry St.  Diller Property is adjacent to the High School  Diller Property  Parks And Recreation Master Plan has not been updated since 1996   Master Plan is in the process of being updated

(update Master Plan /  Interest has been expressed in a community pool consider needs) facility (indoor or outdoor)

Weed Beach McGuane Park

Cherry Lawn Park Woodland Park Nature Preserve

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Legend SAFETY / EMERGENCY SERVICES Assessment Generally expected to be  Police Department  Facility is expected to be adequate to the year 2025 adequate for  Animal Control  Parking is the biggest challenge on site  community  Animal shelter appears adequate needs to 2025  May have some issues to  Fire Department  Three fire stations staffed with volunteer personnel  consider  Have good array of equipment to handle local needs  Excellent training facilities available

 Use mutual aid / coordination Attention   Public water supply available to many areas although appears to be (maintaining volunteer staffing) some areas have poor flow needed to meet  Equipment storage can be an issue  community

needs to 2025  Maintaining adequate volunteer staffing has been an Not expected to issue in other communities be adequate for  Fire response can be challenged by few routes  community over/under railroad / I‐95 needs to 2025  Emergency Medical  Emergency response provided by police / Post 53 /  Medical Transport fire department  Paramedics from Stamford and Norwalk, if needed  Facilities adequate for community needs   State land lease for Post 53 has expired  Increased training requirements may complicate the (lease has expired) use of volunteers

Police Department Post 53

Darien Fire Department Noroton Fire Department

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HOUSING AUTHORITY Assessment  Old Town Hall Houses  Currently have 138 units  The Heights at Darien o 30 units at Old Town Hall Houses  West Avenue Houses o 106 units at The Heights at Darien o 2 units on West Avenue  Heights was recently expanded   DHA intends to redevelop Old Town Hall site  Waiting lists are closed (demand expected to increase  There may be demand for additional units based on due to aging population) projected growth of senior population

OTHER FACILITIES Assessment  Darien Library  New facility opened in 2009  Ranked as one of the top 10 public libraries in the country for its size   Parking area can be inadequate due to heavy use (seek to expand parking options)  Mather Center  Facility opened in 2014  Helps Darien residents, age 55 and over, fulfill their social, physical, emotional and intellectual needs   Desire has been expressed for parking more conven‐ ient to the entrance  Demand may increase due to aging population  Darien Youth Center  Former train station building repurposed into a teen (The Depot) center  State land lease has expired  Activities programmed by a student governing board   Includes a “Safe Rides” service (lease has expired)  Edgerton Street Property  Site once used for an elementary school and then for the Senior Center (building has been demolished)

  Site should be retained for possible future school‐ related use or other municipal, community use or (consider how to repurpose the site) open space

 701  Building previously housed Darien Community Fund

 Building and site should be retained for possible  future municipal or community use (consider how to repurpose the site)

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Darien Community Facilities

GENERAL GOVERNMENT SAFETY / EMERGENCY SERVICES

1. Town Hall 22. Police Station / Animal Shelter

23. Darien Fire Department 24. Noroton Fire Department EDUCATION FACILITIES 25. Noroton Heights Fire Department

2. Darien High School 26. Post 53 EMS/ Ambulance

3. Middlesex Middle School

4. Hindley Elementary School PUBLIC WORKS 5. Holmes Elementary School 6. Ox Ridge Elementary School 27. Public Works Garage / 7. Royle Elementary School Recycling / Refuse Center 8. Tokeneke Elementary School

HOUSING AUTHORITY PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES 28. Old Town Hall Houses (30 units) 9. Weed Beach 29. The Heights at Darien (106 units) 10. Pear Tree Beach 30. West Avenue Houses (2 units)

11. McGuane Park 12. Baker Park 13. Holahan Fields (Town Hall) OTHER FACILITIES 14. Cherry Lawn Park (including the Darien Nature Center) 31. Darien Library

15. Tilley Pond Park 32. Mather Center (Town Hall) 16. Stony Brook Park 33. Darien Youth Center (The Depot) 17. Selleck’s Woods Nature Preserve 18. Woodland Park Nature Preserve 34. BOE Offices 19. Frate Park 35. Edgerton Street Property 20. Diller Propertyg (Nutme Lane) 36. 701 Boston Post Road 21. Cherry St. Property Note‐ Municipally owned or operated parking facilities are addressed in the Transportation section of the POCD.

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Pr a tt Legend I s General Government

Education Facilities

Parks and Recreation Facilities

Safety / Emergency Services

Public Works

Housing Authority

Other Facilities Open Space Community Facility 2,300 Feet

Address Community Facility Needs Policies Leader Partners 1. Maintain existing community facilities. Town BOE 2. Continue to ensure that community facility needs are met by Town BOE considering:  upgrading or renovating existing buildings;  adding on to existing buildings;  constructing new buildings; and/or  acquiring new land, as appropriate. 3. When land which would help address community facility Town BOE needs becomes available, whether adjacent to existing facili‐ ties or elsewhere, evaluate the purchase of that property as quickly as possible in order to help address possible future needs. 4. Continue to monitor school enrollments and State require‐ BOE ments that may affect local facilities. 5. Continue to encourage volunteer participation, especially for Town VFD emergency services. P53 6. Anticipate a future increase in demand for elderly housing Town PZC units and services based on projected growth of senior pop‐ HA ulation. AHID 7. Upgrade existing elementary schools (and eliminate portable BOE classrooms) as opportunities present themselves. Action Steps 8. Expand the highway garage to address the needs of Public Town PW Works and other departments that use the facility. 9. Update the Park and Recreation Master Plan including PRC investigating community support for a swimming pool. 10. Analyze the space needs at Town Hall in order to evaluate Town options for possible future renovation / expansion. 11. Investigate parking options for the library. LIB 12. Investigate how to establish a “fast‐track” process for BOS RTM approving the acquisition of land. PZC

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ADDRESS TRANSPORTATION NEEDS 13

Overview The transportation system is im‐ The transportation system in a community like Darien is functionally important portant to the day‐ to the day‐to‐day life of community residents, visitors, and businesses as well as to‐day life of resi‐ being an important component of its character and self‐image. dents, visitors, and This section of the POCD looks at the overall configuration of the vehicular businesses … transportation network and other transportation modes (pedestrian, bicycle, bus, rail, etc.).

Roadways Roadways

Pedestrians Bicycle

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Legend Address Overall Circulation Crossing functions  well For the most part, Darien has a good overall system of major roads providing access to and between all parts of the community. While historical develop‐ Crossing has some ment patterns and topographical constraints result in some situations where functional issues these roadways are not optimally configured, the basic circulation needs of the  (height, width, flooding, etc.) community are met.

Crossing does not The main challenge to overall circulation is the limited number of crossings over provide an overall the railroad tracks and I‐95 and limited functionality of some of these crossings:  circulation function

Note: Several of these Railroad I‐95 recommendations have been Crossing Location Crossing Crossing in Darien Town Plans since at 1. Brookside Drive – a dead‐end street with I‐95 underpass (at the least 1982. Stamford Line) providing emergency access to the I‐95 rest area  Underpass 2. Hollow Tree Ridge Road – high traffic volume with narrow overpass of railroad tracks in close proximity to I‐95 overpass, driveway to Av‐   alon development, access to station parking, and Heights Road Overpass Overpass 3. Noroton Avenue – high traffic volume with narrow of railroad tracks and I‐95 in close proximity to Ledge Road, Heights Road, and access   to station parking and Post 53 ambulance station Overpass Overpass 4. Leroy Avenue– Opening under railroad overpass is narrow and very low clearance with multiple turning movements  Underpass 5. Boston Post Road– Route 1 travels beneath I‐95 overpass.  Underpass 6. Boston Post Road – Route 1 underpass dips below railroad with low clearance and cannot accommodate some long vehicles. Floods in  storm events. High volume with multiple turning movements Underpass 7. Old Kings Highway South – Roadway travels beneath I‐95 overpass.  Underpass 8. Tokeneke Road – Roadway travels beneath I‐95 overpass.  Underpass 9. I‐95 – Interstate 95 crosses over railroad tracks.  Overpass 10. Old Kings Highway North – Roadway travels over I‐95.  Overpass 11. Raymond Street / Cliff Avenue – Opening under railroad overpass is narrow with low clearance  Underpass

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The most significant constraints occur at:  Hollow Tree Ridge Road (#2),  Noroton Avenue (#3),  Leroy Avenue (#4),  Route 1 at the railroad overpass (#6), and  Raymond Street (#11).

Since these locations involve coordination with regional, state, federal, and quasi‐public agencies on some of the busiest travel corridors in the country, it will likely be challenging to have improvements made on a timely basis. Still, opportunities to remove the constraints at these locations will be pursued since this affects overall circulation in the community and such things as emergency access (police, fire, ambulance).

The only location where a new roadway crossing might be possible (and benefi‐ cial) would be to connect Old Kings Highway North and Old Kings Highway South under the railroad tracks in downtown Darien.

Crossings

Establish an additional connection between Old Kings Highway North and Old Kings Highway South

10

6 9 4 11 8 7 5

2 3

1

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Route 1 Study

Address Overall Circulation Policies Leader Partners 1. Work with CT‐DOT, Metro‐North Railroad, and WestCOG to Town PW address impediments / constraints at I‐95 crossings and rail‐ road crossings. 2. Work with CT‐DOT and WestCOG to implement the trans‐ Town PW portation recommendations of the Route 1 Study as oppor‐ tunities present themselves. 3. Continue the potential benefits of an additional roadway Town PW

crossing in the downtown area by connecting Old Kings In 2013, the regional plan‐ Highway North and Old Kings Highway South with a new ning agency (SWRPA at that tunnel under the railroad tracks. time) completed a Route 1 Corridor Study in Darien. Action Steps The work was conducted by Clough Harbour and Associ‐ 4. Initiate programs to improve overall circulation in the Town PW ates. community and enhance emergency service response.

The study contains recom‐ mendations that address identified issues in the study Hollow Tree Ridge Road Route 1 @ Railroad area and that provide for transportation system enhancements and economic growth opportunities.

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Legend Interstate / Expressway Arterial / State Highway Collector Please see Chapter 8 for more information related to Public Local Road transportation strategies related to downtown Darien. Private Local Road Key Improvement Areas Please see Chapter 9 for more information related to 0 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 Miles transportation strategies related to Noroton Heights.

Pavement Management Address Other Vehicular Transportation Issues Pavement management is an approach to maintaining a Other major vehicular transportation issues in the future are likely to include: roadway system (pavement quality) as efficiently and  balancing traffic capacity (especially along arterial and collector road‐ economically as possible. ways) with maintaining community character as roadway and public safety improvements are undertaken, Since the life cycle of pave‐ ment can be evaluated and  addressing locations where unsafe or hazardous conditions may arise, projected, maintenance and repair can be scheduled at  reducing speeding and introducing “traffic calming”, where appropriate, the most appropriate times. In addition, the overall  maintaining existing Town roads in terms of pavement quality, and quality of the roadway system can be monitored  utilizing “access management” strategies on Route 1 to minimize curb over time. cuts and maximize interconnections between properties, especially in business areas. Darien uses “pavement management” as an integral part of its annual Street Address Other Vehicular Transportation Issues Improvement Program. Policies Leader Partners

1. Move traffic as efficiently as possible, especially along Town PW arterial and collector roads while balancing traffic capacity PD with maintaining community character. 2. Continue to work with WestCOG and CT‐DOT to address Town PW locations on State highways where unsafe or hazardous PD conditions exist. 3. Continue to address locations on local roads where unsafe PW PD or hazardous conditions may arise (including sight lines). TA 4. Utilize “access management” strategies to minimize curb PZC TA cuts and maximize interconnections between properties, es‐ CT‐DOT pecially in business areas. 5. Continue to maintain existing Town roads in terms of pave‐ PW ment quality (pavement management). 6. Consider “traffic calming” measures, where appropriate, to PD PW reduce speeding. TA

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Possible Traffic Calming Techniques ‐ Education

Neighborhood Meetings / Newsletters ‐ A neighborhood meeting can raise awareness of the issue and involve residents in identifying possible approaches. A newsletter can share information about safety concerns, information on traffic speed and volume, and proposed responses. In addition, traffic and pedestrian safety basics can be covered.

Radar Speed Sign ‐ These signs, which may be portable, use radar to provide motorists with an electronic display, alerting them if they are exceeding acceptable speeds in‐ creases driver awareness and motivates people to alter their behavior.

Signage – Traffic signage, if warranted, can inform drivers of school zones, pedestrian activity, school crossings, and bike routes. Installation of stop signs for speed control or unreasonably low speed limits is not recommended.

Possible Traffic Calming Techniques ‐ Enforcement

Speed Enforcement – Enforcement of speed limits and other traffic laws in neighbor‐ hoods can help slow traffic and help police learn when and where to focus their traffic calming efforts.

Possible Traffic Calming Techniques ‐ Engineering

Narrowing Travel Lanes ‐ Wide travel lanes \encourage faster travel speeds. Narrowing the travel lane through pavement markings, landscaping, or curbing can deter traffic whose destination is not in the neighborhood, slow traffic speed, and provide space for pedestrians and cyclists. Permanent constriction may be an issue for snow plowing and emergency response. Temporary constriction can be moved around as necessary.

Textured/Colored Pavement – Changing the texture / color of pavement for even a small area (or another type of “gateway” feature) can send a visual cue that a driver has entered a traffic‐calmed area.

Mini‐Roundabouts ‐ A mini‐roundabout is a street intersection feature which requires vehicles to slow down and navigate around the island in an intersection and yield to vehicles already in the roundabout.

Speed Bump / Hump – Temporary or permanent raised sections of roadway which can deter speeding and cut‐through traffic. However, this can also create issues for snow plowing and emergency response.

Road Closure – A partial closure (diverter) or a full closure should only be used as measures of last resort and only considered if other less restrictive physical measures have failed.

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Manage Parking

Darien maintains several surface parking lots (see sidebar) and these are a key part of the overall community. On‐street parking is generally limited to certain areas in downtown Darien, the Noroton business area (the small neighborhood business area on Route 1), and the Noroton Heights business district. In other locations, parking is provided on private property.

Downtown Parking ‐ In the downtown area, a 2015 parking study found 205 on‐ street spaces and 451 off‐street spaces (656 total public spaces).

The parking spaces are posted for different types of parking (15‐minutes, 1‐ hour, 2‐hour, daily permit, etc.) to strike a balance between shoppers, visitors, employees, and commuters. The general approach has been to designate on‐ street and off‐street spaces closest to retail establishments for short durations with longer durations in less convenient locations. As the parking dynamics of downtown have changed over time, the type of parking in certain areas has changed. For example, the Grove Street parking lot was recently changed to favor shoppers over commuters. These approaches have served the downtown area well and will be continued (on‐street parking, shared parking, shorter duration in more convenient areas, rebalancing parking allocations based on demand, etc.).

On Street Parking Off‐Street Parking

Surface Parking Parking Structure (Walnut Creek, CA)

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Darien must consider where and how to provide for well‐designed parking Major Parking Facilities structures to help address the future parking needs. Unless this is done, it may not be possible to accommodate redevelopment or additional development The numbers are keyed to the maps on this page. with surface lots alone. Any parking structure must be compatible with the overall character of the community and address the impacts of increased traffic Town Owned Lot and any roadway improvements. 1. Leroy Avenue West

Some communities have been very successful at integrating parking structures 2. Grove Street 3. Tilley Lot into their communities by placing “liner buildings” in front of them or devoting 4. Center Street South the street level façade of the parking structure to active uses such as restaurants 5. Center Street North and retail shops. Other communities have established attractive parking struc‐ tures near train stations or off main streets. Darien will consider doing the State Lot / Town Run same. 6. Leroy Avenue East 7. Squab Lane Noroton Heights ‐ While Noroton Heights has public parking lots for the train 8. Tokeneke Road station, private development is supported primarily by off‐street parking facili‐ 9. Mechanic Street ties. This pattern emerged when the business areas along Heights Road were 10. ‐ North 11. Darien Station ‐ South established in the 1950s when the original Noroton Heights village area was 12. Noroton Heights removed by the construction of I‐95. Station – North 13. Noroton Heights Downtown Parking (including Darien Station) Station – South

Mansfield Avenue Private Parking Lots 14. Koons Lot West Avenue 3 15. Lundberg Lot

14 9 On‐Street (not on map) 10  Boston Post Road 6 8 north 11  Boston Post Road 7 5 south 1 2  Corbin Drive  Center Street  Old Kings Hwy South 4 Leroy Avenue  West Avenue  Tokeneke Road  Mechanic Street

Noroton Heights Parking  Brook Street  Day Street  Grove Street

West Avenue

15 Heights Road 12

13 Noroton Hollow Tree Avenue Ridge Road

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Possible Parking Ratios Parking Studies

The 2015 Downtown Darien Two parking studies have been undertaken for Darien since the 2006 POCD: Parking Study suggests the following parking ratios may  The 2007 Parking Study, and be appropriate in certain  The 2015 Downtown Darien Parking Study. mixed‐use downtown areas: 2007 Parking Study ‐ The 2007 Parking Study was conducted for the Planning Use Spaces and Zoning Commission by Fitzgerald‐Halliday Inc. Recommendations from that  Multi‐family 1 space / Study included: residential unit  identify target locations for public parking facilities in the downtown ar‐  Office 2 spaces / ea (including parking structures), 1,000 SF  consolidate / update parking standards in the Zoning Regulations,  Retail 3 spaces /  add criteria and standards for parking waivers and reductions contained 1,000 SF in the Zoning Regulations,  Restaurant 6 spaces /  1,000 SF add options for meeting the parking requirements in the downtown ar‐ ea through a Special Permit process, In addition, the report  provide clear directions for developers to meet Darien’s parking objec‐ suggests that off‐setting tives (such as providing on‐street parking spaces in the downtown), and peaks associated with  create a single responsibility for oversight / planning of parking. different uses may allow a 30% reduction in actual parking use as opposed to 2015 Downtown Darien Parking Study ‐ The 2015 Downtown Darien Parking adding the peaks together. Study was undertaken for the Parking Authority (Board of Selectmen) by Nel‐ son/Nygaard Consulting Associates. The first part of the study evaluated exist‐ ing conditions (supply, management, demand/utilization, zoning requirements, and stakeholder input). Then, the study looked at projected conditions and opportunities.

Some of the key findings and recommendations included:  modify the Zoning Regulations to consider using lower parking require‐ ments in the downtown area,  continue to expand the parking supply over time (on‐street, public off‐ street, private developments),  consider strategies to provide for short‐term availability of coveted spaces,  explore way‐finding and signage to direct people to parking areas,  investigate pricing strategies,  improve pedestrian, bike, and transit options, and  explore ways to reduce parking needs.

These recommendations were consistent with recommendations from the “Action Plan for Revitalization of Downtown” and the “Route 1 Corridor Study.”

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Parking Dimensions

Manage Parking Most communities have adopted a parking stall Policies Leader Partners requirement of 9 feet wide 1. Continue to address parking issues within the downtown Town PC by 18 feet long with a 24‐ foot wide aisle. area and at Noroton Heights, including the train stations.

2. Evaluate shared parking strategies. Town PZC Darien has a parking stall requirement of 9 feet wide 3. Continue to encourage or require on‐street parking where Town PZC by 20 feet long with a 24‐ appropriate. foot wide aisle.

4. Continue to designate spaces closer to retail areas for PC While the 2’ difference (18 shorter duration parking in the downtown. square feet) may not sound like much, it adds up consid‐ 5. Continue to rebalance parking spaces for shoppers, visitors, PC erably in a parking lot or a employees, and commuters, as necessary in the downtown. parking structure. In fact, parking lots are 10% less 6. Discuss where and how to provide for well‐designed parking Town PZC efficient than they could be. structures in the downtown. PC When Darien residents visit Action Steps other communities, they likely park in 9x18 spaces. 7. Create a single responsibility for oversight / management / BOS RTM enforcement / planning of parking. A. Width of 8. Develop a strategic parking supply plan. PC double park‐ 60 ft. ing bay 9. Implement the recommendations from the 2007 Parking Town PZC B. Depth of bay 18 ft. Study including consolidating / updating parking standards PC C. Aisle width 24 ft. in the Zoning Regulations. D. Width of 9 ft. 10. Implement the recommendations from the 2015 Downtown Town PZC space Darien Parking Study, including parking ratios in the down‐ PC E. Depth of 18 ft. town area and offsetting peaks. space 11. Explore way‐finding and signage to direct people to parking PW PC areas. 12. Revisit the parking stall size in order to provide as much PZC parking as possible in available areas.

Center Street North (Public) Lot Next To Leroy Avenue (Private)

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“Complete Streets” Improve Pedestrian Options For many years, roadways had been treated as the There is growing interest in walking and pedestrianism in Darien. To further exclusive area for vehicles. these efforts, the Town established a Pedestrian Infrastructure Advisory Com‐ This “singular” approach is now changing and communi‐ mittee in 2015 to explore, identify and recommend improvements to the exist‐ ties around the country are ing pedestrian infrastructure of Darien. seeking to establish “com‐ plete streets” which provide The POCD encourages and supports: for a wider range of trans‐  Making more provision for pedestrians / walkers. portation modes including walking, cycling, and transit.  implementation of the recommendations from the Pedestrian Infra‐ structure Advisory Committee. As stated by the National  Continuation of the Sidewalk Improvement Program. Complete Streets Coalition, “complete streets” are designed and operated to The map on the facing page suggests a possible hierarchy where “gaps” might enable safe access for all be prioritized in order to address locations which might have the greatest bene‐ users, including pedestrians, fit or serve the most people. bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities. Improve Pedestrian Options

The Route 1 Corridor Study Policies Leader Partners produced a report entitled “Complete Streets Strategies 1. Continue to encourage and support provision for walking. Town BOE and Tools for Boston Post 2. Continue efforts to close “gaps” in the sidewalk system. PW BOS Road, Darien.” This report can be used to help guide BOE “complete streets” ap‐ 3. Increase efforts to repair existing sidewalks, and construct PW BOS proaches on Route 1 and some recommendations may new ones where needed and appropriate. BOE be relevant to other streets 4. Continue placing funds in the Capital Improvement Program BOS in Darien as well. on an annual basis to improve, renovate, and construct

sidewalks. 5. Continue to consider sidewalks, pedestrian access, and PZC related amenities during the site plan and Special Permit re‐ view process. Action Steps 6. Implement recommendations from the Pedestrian Infra‐ Town PW structure Advisory Committee. BOE 7. Work with CT‐DOT on improving crosswalks on State high‐ Staff Town ways (such as Boston Post Road, Tokeneke Road, Mansfield Avenue, Hoyt Street, etc.).

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Possible Focus Areas Possible Sidewalk Focus Areas Category 1

• 1/2 mile radius of Darien / Noroton Heights train stations • CBD zone and ¼ mile buffer • Noroton Heights Overlay zone and ¼ mile buffer

Category 2

• Other business zones • R‐1/5 zone and R‐1/3 residential zone

Category 3

• 1/2 mile radius of Talmadge Hill / Springdale / Glen‐ brook / Rowayton train stations (provid‐ ed sidewalks are available in adjacent community) • Arterial and collector roads when located within 1‐mile of CBD zone or Noroton Heights Overlay zone • R‐1/2 residential zone

Category 4

• Arterial and collector roads located more than 1‐mile from CBD zone or Noroton Heights Overlay zone

Category 5

• R‐1 zone and R‐2 residential zone • Noroton Bay residen‐ Planimetrics tial zone • Private roads

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“Complete Streets” Improve Bicycling Options See the sidebar on page 128 for a discussion of “complete The POCD supports provision for bicycles. Encouraging more bicycle use (and streets” since that approach creating an overall system of bicycle routes on State and local roads, as appro‐ is relevant to bicycles as well as other modes of transpor‐ priate) is strongly encouraged. tation. However, there may be challenges in Darien to accomplish this. Some roads in Bicycle Route Sign Darien may be too narrow, too twisty, or have limited sight lines preventing motorists and cyclists from comfortably co‐existing with each other. On other roadways, traffic speeds, traffic volumes, and/or shoulder width may deter even the most experienced cyclists.

Darien intends to undertake a process to:  identify streets with the most potential for bicycle use,  provide bicycle amenities as appropriate (lane striping, signage, bike racks, etc.), and  educate motorists and cyclists about sharing the roadway.

Bike Rack Project Improve Bicycling Options At Train Stations Policies Leader Partners 1. Encourage and support provision for bicycling. Town BOE PRC 2. Consider bicycle access and amenities during the site plan PZC review process. 3. Seek to establish a system of safe bicycle routes throughout Town PW the community. BOE PRC TA

4. Evaluate bicycle potential as part of any roadway improve‐ PW PD More Information ment or pavement striping project in Darien. TA

More information on bicycle 5. Place funds in the Capital Improvement Program to establish BOS routes (including a statewide and enhance bicycle routes. bicycle suitability map) may be found here: 6. Encourage provision of safe, locking storage for bicycles. Town PZC

ct.gov/dot/bikeped

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Train Stations

Railroads Bus Routes

Bus Route Designation 2,300 Feet

Improve Rail Services And Amenities

Darien has two stations (Darien and Noroton Heights) on the of the Metro‐North commuter rail system. The New Haven line provides service between New Haven Connecticut and Grand Central Station in . In addition, there are four other stations in close proximity to Darien – one on the New Haven line ( in Norwalk) and three on the New Canaan branch line ( and Springdale in Stamford and Talmadge Hill in New Canaan). Darien is considered a higher level station and is served by about 17 more train trips per day than Noroton Heights.

Overall, train service to and from Darien is excellent. While delays and cancella‐ tions are infrequent, they are tremendously frustrating to residents and local workers because people have become so reliant on the service.

The CT‐DOT is working with Metro‐North to increase the number of train trips in the corridor and increase the level of service. The Town will continue to advo‐ cate for maintaining and improving the level of service at both stations.

The key issues associated with the train service are:  the availability of parking, and  the quality of the stations themselves.

Darien Train Station

Noroton Heights Station

140

The train stations in Darien are owned by CT‐DOT and operated by the Town under a lease arrangement. The Town collects the parking revenues and places these funds in a special account. Under the terms of the lease, the Town could improve the stations using the funds in that account. Depending on the cost of the improvements, the Town could increase the parking fees to cover the cost of the improvements.

However, at the present time, the lease has expired and CT‐DOT has not offered a new lease or lease extension. As a result, the Town is not in a position to make improvements to the station until the lease provisions are clear.

Train Station Parking

Parking is the biggest issue associated with the train stations even though there are about 1,200 spaces near the Darien train station (about 860 public and about 320 private) and about 810 spaces near the (about 780 public and about 30 private). This is because of the overall dynamics of the parking situation.

Based on historic usage, the Town sells a certain number of permits for the designated permit spaces. In fact, the spaces are oversold since experience shows that a number of people do not use their spaces every day. However, there is a limited number of permits available and strong demand for the spaces so there is a lengthy waiting period (up to 7 years) to be able to get a parking permit. Once people get a permit, they often keep it even if they will not use it regularly. These permits tend to be used by long‐time Darien residents.

For people without a parking permit, there are two options. First, they can arrange with private parking operators near the stations for a parking space on a daily, weekly, monthly or annual basis. Second, they can utilize the daily parking areas at the stations. The daily spaces are available on a first come – first served basis. These arrangements tend to be used by newer Darien residents and by commuters from out‐of‐town who choose to use the Darien stations due to quality of service, ease of access, overall cost, or other considerations.

Historically, the cost of parking at the Darien stations has typically been lower than can be found at other parking locations along the New Haven line or at nearby stations.

The availability of parking can be increased by going to structured parking at either station (or both stations). However, as mentioned previously, the provi‐ sion of structured parking needs to consider the size of the structure, the num‐ ber of spaces to be provided, and the overall traffic impacts. Any parking struc‐ ture must be compatible with the overall character of the community and ad‐ dress the impacts of increased traffic and any roadway improvements.

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Station Amenities

The Darien station was recently improved and, for the most part, meets user’s expectations. An additional pedestrian bridge will enhance the functionality of the station and accessibility to parking areas and downtown.

The Noroton Heights station, on the other hand, has not been improved in many years and does not meet user’s expectations:  functionally obsolete structure,  one pedestrian bridge in poor location,  customer platforms in poor condition,  inadequate bicycle / scooter parking, and  congestion for arriving and departing vehicles.

Improvements For Darien Station Improvements For Noroton Heights Station

State Land  Renew / extend the State lease in order to  Renew / extend the State lease south of the support local investment in improving parking railroad tracks in order to consolidate station facilities parking in this area  Seek to use State land north of the railroad tracks to support transit‐oriented development as envisioned in the POCD

Parking  Expand station parking (including parking  Seek to establish a parking structure provided it structures) in ways compatible with the overall is compatible with the overall character of the community community and the impacts of increased traffic (roadway improvements) are addressed

Station Building  Elevate the train station building to platform  Establish a new train station building (public or level to provide a handicapped accessible wait‐ private) opposite Edgerton Street ing room (the current building floor is several feet below the platform level)

Pedestrian  Provide at least one (1) pedestrian bridge at the  Renovate / replace the existing pedestrian Access station to shorten the distance of pedestrian bridge and add a second handicapped accessible crossings and provide an alternative to the nar‐ pedestrian bridge at the station row underpass at Leroy Avenue

Amenities  Add warming huts / infra‐red heaters for winter  Rebuild the station platforms months  Add warming huts / infra‐red heaters for winter  Extend the canopies to cover more of the train months platforms  Extend the canopies rto cove more of the train  Provide multiple ticket kiosks / machines platforms  Provide multiple ticket kiosks / machines

Lighting  Provide better lighting (at the stations, in the  Provide better lighting (at the stations, in the parking areas, and between the station and parking areas, and between the station and parking areas) parking areas)

Other  Reconfigure the taxi stand to minimize conflicts  Seek to increase service levels to the Noroton with commuters Heights station

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Station improvements should be undertaken, as needed. However, until the State lease is renewed, the Town is currently not in a position to make the improvements desired.

Improve Rail Services And Amenities Policies Leader Partners 1. Continue to work with CT‐DOT and Metro‐North to increase Town the level of train service to and from Darien. 2. Seek ways to improve the overall parking situation at train Town PC stations, including parking structures. Action Steps 3. Investigate increasing the supply of parking at one or both Town PC train stations. 4. Investigate increasing parking prices at the train stations in BOS PC Darien (both Darien station and Noroton Heights station) in order to provide more amenities for users and make it fairer relative to other parking situations on the New Haven rail line. 5. Work with CT‐DOT to clarify the lease situation so that BOS planning for station improvements can commence.

Darien Station Noroton Heights Station

143

Enhance Other Transit Services

Darien is served by three Connecticut Transit bus routes:  Route No. 41 provides service along Route 1 in Darien as part of its route between downtown Stamford and downtown Norwalk.  Route No. 42 provides service from the Stamford Transportation Center to the Darien train station via West Avenue and includes the Noroton Heights train station.  Route No. 34 provides service from the Stamford Transportation Center to northeast Stamford and returns using Woodway, Hoyt, and Camp Streets in Darien.

Dial‐a‐ride service in Darien is available from “At Home In Darien”, a private non‐profit organization that provides transportation services so that Darien seniors can live independently in their own homes, if they wish.

Taxi service is operated by the Darien Eveready Cab Company. It is located at the Darien railroad station (1 Squab Lane). Taxi queuing / operations at the Darien train station can sometimes interfere with pedestrian movements and should be addressed.

Transportation services are also available through “shared ride” arrangements (including Uber, Lyft, and others).

Enhance Other Transit Services Policies Leader Partners 1. Seek to maintain and enhance bus transit services within Town CTT Darien. 2. Maintain and enhance other transit services within Darien. Town CTT MNRR 3. Consider establishing a transit shuttle service that offers Town home‐to‐station service at peak commuter hours (as has been done in Westport). 4. Provide bus shelters and other amenities (such as posted Town PW schedules and route maps) to support transit users (which PZC can also be accomplished through land use approvals). 5. Support the dial‐a‐ride service provided by “At Home In Town Darien.” 6. Continue to work with WestCOG and CT‐DOT on increasing Town the attractiveness of alternative transportation including, but not limited to, car pools, van pools, ridesharing, and shuttles from train stations.

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MANAGE UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE 14

Overview Utility infrastruc‐ ture has a signifi‐ The availability of utility infrastructure – water, sewer, electricity, and communi‐ cant influence on cations, for example – has a significant influence on overall public health, safety, overall public welfare, and quality of life. Even though some of these utilities may be provided by private companies, their availability is important for residents, businesses, health, safety, and visitors to Darien. welfare, and quality of life … The POCD looks at the availability of these utilities (both capacity and location) to ensure they are adequate for community needs.

Water Service Sewage Service

Storm Drainage Wired Utilities

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Maintain and Enhance Piped Utilities

Maintain and Enhance Water Service

Water service in Darien is provided by the Aquarion Company as part of their water system in southwest Connecticut. Aquarion reports that it has over 6,600 connections in Darien and thus serves about 19,900 residents.

Aquarion reports they have ample supply capacity to meet local needs and continue to make improvements to improve capacity and pressure. Water quality is in accordance with State and Federal requirements. Water pressure can be an issue in some areas and the Town will continue to press Aquarion to address these situations. The Town will also advocate for “color‐coded” hydrant tops that clearly indicate the available pressure in different locations.

Overall, the water system is expected to be adequate for community needs during the planning period (2016‐2026).

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Maintain and Enhance Sewer Service Sea Level Rise

Over 70% of the Town of Darien is served by a sanitary sewer system. The While there are not expected to be any major issues in system collects sewage discharges from local properties and conveys them to Darien related to sewage the water pollution control facility in Stamford. Darien has an inter‐municipal capacity, one of the issues agreement with Stamford for the treatment of sewage waste. Operation of the for the community to sewer facilities in Darien is overseen by the Sewer Commission. address in the future is related to possible future climate change and sea level According to the Public Works staff and the Health Department, no area of rise. Darien is considered a “sewer avoidance area” at this time. In other words, all areas of Darien may be eligible for public sewer service at some time in the Sewers tend to be located in future. low lying areas (in order to collect sewage from nearby properties) and these areas Other issues to address in the future to make efficient use of available sewage are vulnerable to flooding. treatment capacity include:  inflow (discharge of non‐sewer water from basement sump pumps, roof In the future, Darien will need to develop strategies to leaders, and other sources) and floodproof or protect sewage  infiltration (seepage of groundwater into sewer pipes). infrastructure (such as pump stations and manholes) from flood damage or sea level rise.

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Encourage Expansion Of Natural Gas Service

While natural gas service is not widely available in Darien at the present time, natural gas service is being considered for some of the major developments being proposed in downtown Darien and the Noroton Heights business district. Gas service should also be extended to major municipal facilities, if possible (especially since some of these serve as emergency shelters). The introduction and expansion of natural gas service is encouraged since it can provide an alter‐ native source of fuel to local residents and businesses.

Address Storm Drainage Issues

Storm drainage in Darien is addressed by a combination of structural systems (such as catch basins and underground pipes) in areas of newer development and by more natural approaches (ditches and swales) in other areas. Drainage and flooding issues can occur along a number of watercourses in the community since culverts and drainage facilities did not anticipate the level of development prevalent today.

While the Town has attempted to address some of the more difficult drainage situations, these proposals have sometimes been opposed by the abutting property owners. As a result, some of the problems have persisted for a long time and will likely persist into the future until some consensus or direction emerges among the affected property owners.

In the meantime, the Town is utilizing a drainage policy which encourages or requires detention on individual sites. This policy (called “fresh meadow”) means that any new development is evaluated on the total drainage impact as if the site was an undeveloped meadow rather than an already developed site. In the future, it is anticipated that Darien will do more to implement “low impact development” strategies where attention is paid to treating runoff to remove pollutants and infiltrating it into the ground as soon as possible.

While this approach will certainly yield benefits over the long term, there are some serious drainage issues at the present time that will persist unless some‐ thing is done.

Darien Flooding Darien Flooding

148

Maintain And Enhance Piped Utilities Policies Leader Partners 1. Continue to work with utility companies to improve utility Town service and response. 2. Encourage improvement of water service. Town 3. Advocate for color coded hydrants (shows water VFD flow/pressure). 4. Maintain and enhance sewer service. SC PW HD 5. Develop strategies to floodproof or protect sewage infra‐ SC PW structure (such as pump stations and manholes) from flood damage or water level rise. 6. Continue to investigate and address inflow and infiltration of SC PW non‐sewer water. 7. Encourage expansion of natural gas service. Town 8. Continue to investigate and address drainage and flooding PW issues (such as undersized culverts). 9. Continue to address storm drainage issues (such as requiring PW PZC new development to conform to the Town’s “fresh mead‐ ow” drainage policy). 10. Continue comprehensive master drainage planning. PW 11. Implement “low impact development” strategies where PW PZC attention is paid to treating runoff to remove pollutants and IWC infiltrating it into the ground as soon as possible. HD

Rain Garden Pervious Pavement

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Streetlights Maintain and Enhance Other Utilities Some communities are purchasing and then manag‐ Wired utilities include electrical service, wired telephones, and also cable televi‐ ing and maintaining local sion / internet. The reliability of these systems is an important consideration streetlights. since they can be vulnerable to service interruptions from storm events and Darien should consider this other disruptions where the wires are exposed. In areas such as downtown approach in order to main‐ Darien and the Noroton Heights business district, it is the Town’s desire that tain the street‐lighting wired utilities be placed underground. In other areas of Darien, the Town will system as cost‐effectively as continue to seek an appropriate balance between electrical reliability and the possible. impacts on community character / environmental health from trimming of tree This should also include a branches. conversion of streetlights to LED technology. The Town will encourage expansion of internet capacity for residents and busi‐

nesses.

People are increasingly relying on wireless services for voice and data. Wireless services enhance public safety since people can call for assistance from any‐ where service is available. People are often concerned about wireless services because of the visual impact of new towers.

Darien will seek to balance the demand for wireless services and the public safety benefits with the visual and other impacts of new tower installations.

Maintain and Enhance Other Utilities Policies Leader Partners 1. Continue to work with utility companies to improve utility Town service and response. 2. Continue to seek an appropriate balance between reliability Town PW of wired utilities and community character / environmental TW health. 3. Consider acquiring the street‐lighting system and operating Town PW it as cost‐effectively as possible. 4. Seek to balance the demand for wireless services and the Town public safety benefits with the visual and other impacts of new tower installations. 5. Work with property owners and utility companies to bury Town PW utility wires, especially in downtown Darien and the Noroton Heights business district. 6. Encourage the expansion of internet capacity and wireless Town coverage while maintaining community character.

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PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCY 15

Overview Sustainability and resiliency For the purposes of this Plan, “sustainability” refers to the philosophy of en‐ are newer issues couraging activities that allow present generations to meet their needs without for Darien to compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. The term “resiliency” refers to the community’s ability to readily recover from sudden consider as part changes or adversity. of the Plan ...

Much of Darien was built during a time when it was assumed that resources to support growth and development patterns were unconstrained and that major changes were unlikely to occur and that the environment would support such growth. While this still may be the case, it seems prudent to evaluate alterna‐ tive scenarios and the possible implications of those scenarios. If we are to enhance the character and quality of life for present and future generations, being a sustainable and resilient community – able to adapt to possible future changes – will be especially important.

Sustainability Resiliency

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LEED Certification Promote Sustainability The Darien Library was built to LEED‐Gold standards. This Promote Energy Conservation / Sustainability accreditation is given to buildings judged to have achieved a high level of Energy availability and cost are likely to be more significant issues in Darien in environmental sustainability the future. This has financial implications for all residents – whether for leading in the areas of: their daily lives or for supporting functions provided by the Town.  energy savings,  water efficiency, The Town should prepare and implement a Sustainability Plan. This could be  CO2 emissions reduc‐ tion, prepared by the Conservation Commission (recommended in the POCD) or a  improved indoor Sustainability / Energy Task Force which could evaluate alternative approaches environmental quality, (space heating, electrical consumption, electrical generation, vehicles) and make and recommendations to reduce energy usage, increase reliability, and save money.  stewardship of re‐ sources and sensitivity to their impacts. Some key issues for the sustainability / energy task force to consider include:  Prepare an energy conservation action plan to reduce operating costs, reduce lifecycle costs, and lower the carbon footprint of the Town / school buildings.  Review municipal facilities for energy conservation opportunities (light‐ ing, controls, equipment, geo‐thermal, building envelope, etc.).  Investigate opportunities for energy generation (solar, wind, fuel cell, etc.) as a way to lower energy costs and enhance resiliency.  Identify ways to involve the community in implementing energy conser‐ vation practices.  Initiate transition to renewable energy for town vehicles (natural gas, electric, biofuels, and hybrids).

Residential Rooftop Solar Installation Commercial Rooftop Solar Installation

Promote Water Conservation

The United States has one of the highest rates of personal water consumption in the world (100 gallons of water per person per day for domestic purposes). Simple changes to some everyday activities can reduce most people’s domestic water use by 10% or more. Darien will encourage water conservation especially since some areas of the community rely on groundwater for domestic use.

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Promote Waste Reduction / Recycling

The overall waste stream and recycling is another potential area for investiga‐ tion and education in Darien. Reducing the waste stream and promoting recy‐ cling will be promoted.

In 2013, the Board of Selectmen established a Recycling Center Advisory Com‐ mittee to ensure that transfer station operations were efficient and cost effec‐ tive and that single stream recycling was effectively implemented. The Commit‐ tee was also charged with increasing public awareness and environmental improvement.

Educate Residents About Sustainability Concepts

Efforts will be devoted towards educating residents and school children about sustainability concepts.

Water Conservation Recycling Electric Vehicle

Promote Sustainability Policies Leader Partners 1. Promote energy conservation / sustainability. CC SETF 2. Promote water conservation. CC 3. Promote waste reduction / recycling. CC PW 4. Educate residents about sustainability concepts. CC Action Steps 5. Prepare and implement a Sustainability Plan. CC SETF

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Recent Severe Storms Affecting Darien Promote Resiliency

 March windstorm As stated earlier, “resiliency” refers to the community’s ability to address and (2010) readily recover from storm events, sudden changes or adversity.  Hurricane Irene (2011)  October snow‐storm and ice‐storm (2011) Emergency Preparedness / Response (Short‐Term)  Storm Sandy (2012)  Winter storm Charlotte Darien has a variety of public safety services (police, fire, and emergency medi‐ (2013) cal) that are trained and equipped to respond to emergencies in the community. Darien will continue to review and improve emergency preparedness plans

(single events) in order to be best prepared for future events.

Hazard Reduction / Mitigation (Medium‐Term)

Recent storm events have demonstrated the value of hazard identification, hazard mitigation, and hazard response planning. Based on experience from prior events and advanced preparation, the Town of Darien has plans and sup‐ plies available to address local needs resulting from recurring events, such as hurricanes, flooding and winter storms.

Darien will continue to participate with adjacent communities and the Western Connecticut Council of Governments on updating and refining the Hazard Miti‐ gation Strategy in order to identify and then reduce or eliminate risk to human life and property resulting from natural hazards.

Emergency Response Hazard Readiness

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Evolution (Long‐Term)

Longer term issues are also important to consider. There is some indication that the global climate may be changing and that average annual temperatures may be increasing. One of the results of this could be a change in sea levels over time. Since Darien is a coastal community, the prospect of sea level rise is something to be considered so that the implications of sea level rise can be understood and alternative scenarios evaluated.

Understanding long‐term trends is challenging because the time frame of sea level rise is longer than our typical outlook. People may tend to see floods and storms as abnormal events rather than an indication of future conditions. For most people, an event 50 years in the future may be too ephemeral or distant to comprehend.

Much of the discussion of response to sea level rise needs to include the state and federal governments and the insurance industry. In the short‐term, it makes sense for a homeowner to take federal flood insurance proceeds and rebuild in place to a higher elevation. Over a longer term, however, it may not be possible for local government to raise road elevations or provide services.

Sea Level Rise Sea Level Rise

PlantsneedCO2.org

Problem Areas Short‐Term Adaptation

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Additional Information As other coastal communities are starting to do, Darien intends to consider and discuss strategic options and which strategies are best in which situations: Additional information on  Inaction – either ignore sea level rise or not consider the implications to sea level rise may be found at: the community and its residents.  Protection– consider “hard armoring” of existing improvements and coastalresilience.org properties (i.e. – seawalls, etc.).  Accommodation –consider raising existing structures even though the

surrounding land and streets will not be raised.  Adaptation – reduce or minimize the construction of new improve‐ ments.  Capitulation – retreat from shoreline areas over time as sea levels rise and/or revert to nature.

As an initial step, Darien will continue to assess the vulnerability of public and private infrastructure (e.g., utilities, transportation, structures) to climate change and increased frequency of extreme storms and develop adaptation strategies.

Promote Resiliency Policies Leader Partners 1. Continue to regularly review and improve emergency pre‐ Town VFD paredness and response. PD P53 2. Continue to regularly review and improve hazard mitigation Town VFD plans for recurring events, such as flooding. PD P53 3. Over the long term, begin to consider and discuss strategic Town PW options and responses to predicted sea level rise. PZC Action Steps 4. Assess the vulnerability of infrastructure (e.g., utilities, PW SC transportation, structures) to climate change and increased Town frequency of extreme storms and develop strategies. 5. Consider increasing the “freeboard” requirement in areas PZC subject to flooding especially as storm frequency and severi‐ ty is projected to increase in the future.

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