Newtown P&Z Continues Hearing On 67-Unit Affordable Housing Proposal

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Planning & Zoning Commission on Thursday continued its public hearing on a proposed 67-unit rental development on Mount Pleasant and Hawleyville roads, drawing detailed presentations from developers and concerns from nearby residents.

Cela Builders, LLC is seeking approval under Connecticut’s affordable housing statute, known as 8-30g, for a single-building complex with 21 affordable units. The plan calls for 51 one-bedroom and 16 two-bedroom apartments, with amenities including a gym, lounge, elevator access and fire safety systems.

Attorney Tim Hollister, representing the developer, told commissioners the project has wetlands approval and will include dark-sky compliant lighting, native landscaping and electric vehicle charging stations. Engineers said traffic studies show the development would have limited impact on congestion and no adverse safety issues.

Several commissioners raised questions about parking, driveway slopes and the building’s design, noting Newtown’s rural character. Commissioner Connie Widmann suggested the structure adopt a more rural/country look.

Residents from Hillcrest Drive and nearby streets voiced strong concerns about traffic, safety and stormwater management. Neighbors cited frequent congestion on Route 25 and Mount Pleasant Road, the narrowness of Hillcrest, and potential risks from delivery trucks and snow removal. Others urged safer pedestrian connections to local hiking trails and schools.

Hollister said the development team will provide a written response addressing concerns before the commission’s next meeting.

The hearing was continued to Oct. 16, when the commission will revisit the application.

Separately, the commission approved minutes from its Sept. 4 meeting and voted to cancel its Oct. 2 session, moving all pending applications to Oct. 16.