Setting the Record Straight on the Margerie Reservoir Trail

**News Release Submitted by Olivia Micca**

Setting the Record Straight on the Margerie Reservoir Trail

By Olivia Micca, Co-Founder of the Acquaintances of Margerie Reservoir Trail

As a lifelong New Fairfield resident, I have watched our town grow and change. One thing we have never had is an ADA-accessible, flat walking trail that everyone can enjoy, including seniors, residents with disabilities, mothers with strollers, and new families. That is why I co-founded the Acquaintances of Margerie Reservoir Trail and why I have followed this project closely since the grant was awarded in 2021.

The Margerie Reservoir Trail is not only about recreation. It is about connecting New Fairfield and Danbury with a safe, accessible, environmentally responsible trail that matches the vision in our Plan of Conservation and Development. It is also about protecting this land from being sold to developers for housing or commercial use and preserving it as a public green space for generations.

Addressing Common Concerns with Facts

1. “Taxes will go up in New Fairfield to pay for maintenance.”

This is not true. The official FAQ confirms there will be no cost to New Fairfield for maintenance. The trail is on City of Danbury-owned property, and Danbury is actively pursuing state and federal grants, partnerships, and sponsorships to cover upkeep. Even if Danbury paid the entire $10,000 annual cost itself, it would be only about 11 to 22 cents per taxpayer per year.

2. “Construction will disturb the eagles.”

Protecting the bald eagle nest has been a priority from the start. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection reviewed the route and found no objections. The trail will run along Route 37, where more than 11,000 vehicles pass every day without disrupting the eagles. Construction will avoid nesting season and use low- impact methods with added vegetative screening.

3. “Crime from Danbury will spill into New Fairfield.”

Research shows that trails do not increase crime and often reduce it by bringing more people into the area. Trails in both Danbury and New Fairfield already operate safely. The Margerie Reservoir Trail will have regular pedestrian activity, visibility from Route 37, mile markers, and emergency access points.

4. “The environmental impact will harm the reservoir.”

The design will actually improve water quality by capturing and treating runoff from Route 37 before it reaches the reservoir. More people using the trail will discourage illegal dumping and vandalism.

5. “We should leave the land as is.”

If we do nothing, there is a real risk this property could be sold for private development. That would mean housing or commercial buildings along the shoreline. Building the trail will keep the land in public hands and safeguard it as open space instead of a construction site.

Why This Trail Matters

The Margerie Reservoir Trail has been shaped by more than two years of public meetings, surveys, and community feedback. It has earned bipartisan political support, the endorsement of the Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce, and a place in both the New Fairfield and Danbury Plans of Conservation and Development.

Beyond recreation, it offers important benefits:
- Property values: Homes near trails often increase 4 to 7 percent in value.
- Local economy: Trails can boost small business activity by 5 to 10 percent.
- Public health: Flat, accessible walking routes promote exercise and social connection.
- Land preservation: Protects valuable waterfront property from development.

A Path Forward

This trail is more than a path. It is a promise to preserve land, protect wildlife, and create a safe and welcoming space for every resident. The facts are clear, the benefits are proven, and the opportunity is here.

— Olivia Micca
Co-Founder, Acquaintances of Margerie Reservoir Trail
Lifelong New Fairfield Resident