Groton ― A public hearing on the city Planning and Zoning Commission’s proposal to create a new commercial and residential zone that would allow higher-density housing for upper Thames Street, Bridge Street and part of North Street was continued until next month.

The hearing, which was opened last month and continued Wednesday, was continued until the commission’s next meeting at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 21 in the Municipal Building, as residents requested more time to digest the information.

City Planner Leslie Creane gave a PowerPoint presentation, available on the city’s website, about the proposal to revitalize the area and create a more walkable and bikeable neighborhood with higher-density housing, as Electric Boat increases its workforce. The proposed zone would allow multi-family and mixed-use developments up to four stories tall, if they receive site plan approval, and developments that are five to six stories, but no more than 75 feet tall, if they receive a special permit. There also is a proposal to update parking regulations.

Most people speaking Wednesday opposed the proposal, with the potential height of the buildings being the largest point of criticism. Residents also were concerned about environmental, traffic and visual impacts, and some said there should be different regulations for different parts of the zone.

Resident Leslie Evans said the idea of a Main Street aesthetic sounds wonderful, but the height proposal bothers her. She said three stories would be great, maybe four, but beyond that is too much.

k.drelich@thday.com