More evaluation sought for Kobyluck plan at Waterford hearing

Waterford - Two scientists and the town's environmental planner argued Thursday night that several aspects of a proposal that would create a gravel pit and rock-crushing plant on Industrial Drive need more evaluation before the project moves forward.

Both scientists and Environmental Planner Maureen FitzGerald gave presentations at a public hearing of the Conservation Commission that centered on the Kobyluck Brothers LLC proposal.

The plan for the sand and gravel company's 37-acre site has drawn the ire of many residents who are concerned about environmental impacts, potential noise pollution and other factors.

FitzGerald argued Thursday that the proposal should fall in line with the rules set forth in the Jordan Brook Watershed Management Study, a plan she said Waterford Commons and Target, among other businesses, followed during construction. The Industrial Drive project is located at the headwaters of Jordan Brook.

Meanwhile, Robert Good, a hydrogeologist from Leggette, Brashears and Graham, and Ed Pollack, a soil and wetlands scientists from CT EcoSystems, raised concerns about groundwater testing and the protection of surrounding wetlands.

The hearing was continued from a Jan. 26 public hearing that more than 50 people attended. A smaller crowd attended Thursday's hearing.

Kobyluck Brothers LLC first proposed the project in July 2010. It has since undergone a series of tests and an outside-consultant review on its property, but many still have concerns.

Seventeen Vauxhall Street Extension and Douglas Lane residents were granted intervenor status in the case, which affords them a greater role in commission proceedings. Thames Valley Trout Unlimited also was approved as an intervenor.

jeff.johnson@theday.com