Ridgefield Planners Weigh Aldrich Museum Events, Approve Trail Project

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Ridgefield Planning and Zoning Commission continued debate on outdoor events at the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, approved plans for the Norwalk River Valley Trail, and reviewed enforcement actions during its Sept. 2 meeting.

The meeting marked the first for new Planning and Zoning Director Aarti Paranjape, who previously served a decade in the department.

Enforcement Updates

Commissioners discussed ongoing violations, including excavation concerns at 362 Old Sib Road, outdoor smokers at Hoo Doo Brown Barbeque on Ethan Allen Highway, and discrepancies in heating systems at 34 Bailey Avenue. All three matters remain under enforcement.

Prospect Street Application Withdrawn

A proposal to revise a special permit at 29 Prospect Street to allow tractor-trailers to exit onto Grove Street was withdrawn. Ridgefield Supply manager Michael Loya had sought the change, but commissioners and residents raised traffic safety concerns. The applicant will reapply. A traffic study was recommended before resubmission.

Aldrich Museum Requests Outdoor Events

The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum requested a modification to allow limited private outdoor events. Current permits restrict such use. Museum leaders proposed no more than 10 events annually with curfews and limits on amplified sound.

Supporters said the venue improvements and nonprofit mission justified the change. Opponents cited concerns about noise, parking, and a shift in the museum’s role. The hearing was continued to Sept. 16 for further discussion and neighborhood outreach.

Norwalk River Valley Trail Approved

Commissioners unanimously approved the Ridgefield segment of the Norwalk River Valley Trail, which will extend from Redding to Route 7. Plans call for a 10-foot stone dust trail with boardwalks and fencing. Construction is expected in spring 2026.

Conditions include weekly monitoring reports and options for nearby residents to request additional screening and access gates.

Other Business

• Commissioners supported a proposal to designate East Ridge as a historic district, which will require town approval.
• A bond release of $9,000 was granted for erosion and stormwater control.
• Applications for a new sign at 467 Main Street, a barn at 76 Canterbury Lane, and a pool at 5 Palmer Court were scheduled for site walks and October hearings.

The meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m.