Stonington begins work to secure Mystic River Boathouse Park site
Stonington — The town has begun work to secure the site of the proposed Mystic River Boathouse Park on Route 27.
Last year, residents approved $2.2 million in borrowing to create the public park and the town closed on the $1.67 million purchase of the 1.5-acre property last month. The Mystic River Boathouse Park Implementation Committee now is creating a detailed plan for the project. The town then will have to obtain a permit from the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Town Highway Department employees began work on the site last week.
First Selectman Rob Simmons said the work includes installing a chain and lock at the front entrance, securing the existing fence and replacing missing sections, reducing the height of the fence so passers-by can see in and removing an above-ground pool and deck. The work also includes installing new locks on the home and buildings on the property, posting no trespassing and other signs and disconnecting utilities.
The town has reached agreement with the Friends of Stonington Crew, in which the organization will raise money and construct a dock and boathouse on the property for use by the Stonington High School crew team and the public.
The state recently announced that the town will receive a $200,000 grant to assist with the cost of assessing and cleaning up contamination on the property.
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