Recently, I read confusing public statements involving proposed bill number 660, so I contacted Sen. Heather Somers to clarify the intent. She indicates Bill 660 is an intermodal approach to local transportation to avoid parking problems. She does NOT favor a new parking garage in the downtown area of Mystic. I have summarized her remarks as follows:

The bill establishes a task force to study moving people around Mystic rather than having them try to find parking. We prefer to park cars outside of downtown and move people around by using electric water taxis, small shuttles, or improved bike lanes. Both towns of Stonington and Groton have been looking at ideas from which this task force can take to a more comprehensive approach.

This requires collaboration with DOT, DEEP, town officials and stakeholders. There has been NO discussion with places like Seaport Marine in downtown Mystic as it would counter the original idea of the study. Bill 660 will be a long overdue plan for the region with all citizens included throughout the process.

Ed Johnson

Groton