Ridgefield Reviews Housing Project, Land Deal And Infrastructure Plans

RIDGEFIELD, CT — Ridgefield officials are reviewing a range of local developments, including a proposed 20-unit affordable housing project, a $750,000 land purchase, and major infrastructure upgrades, according to highlights from recent town meetings.

The Planning and Zoning Commission closed the public hearing on an application under the Affordable Housing Land Use Appeals Procedure to build a 20-unit apartment complex at the former Red Rooster site at 43 Danbury Road. The commission will now deliberate before voting to approve or deny the project.

A separate application seeking amendments to zoning regulations for accessory dwelling units was withdrawn. The PZC previously adopted a six-month moratorium on development to allow time for comprehensive regulation review.

See Also: Red Rooster Pub In Ridgefield Shutters Permanently: Report

Meanwhile, the Board of Selectpersons approved a license agreement with MetroSTOR, advancing the town’s composting program by adding a 24-hour compost container outside the Recycling Center. The program began in 2022 and continues to grow.

Ridgefield also secured a $4 million state grant through the Local Capital Improvement Program for drainage replacement along Ridgebury Road, from the Danbury line to Route 116. Repaving options are being considered.

The Board also approved $174,000 to replace the dispatch center’s aging console system after two recent failures. The upgrade, previously included in the rejected Public Safety Building referendum, will support emergency services and be transferrable to any future facility.

In other developments, a proposed 15-year lease of 0.6 acres at McKeon Farm to the American Chestnut Foundation was approved. The group will plant disease-resistant chestnut trees as part of restoration efforts.

A Special Town Meeting is scheduled for May 28 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss the dispatch console funding. Another is set for June 11 to vote on repealing the town’s fracking waste ordinance, which conflicts with state law. That same meeting will address the proposed purchase of 217 Danbury Road, which could be used for future recreational space or parking.

Separately, House Bill 7035, which would prevent local zoning commissions from imposing moratoriums on building projects, passed the House and awaits a vote in the State Senate.

The BOS Meeting, Public Hearing, and Town Meeting may be viewed online here.