Stratford's New Direction Continues to Be Hashed Out

A plan for Stratford that town officials say will “guide growth and change” for the next 10 years, is nearing completion.

The Plan of Conservation and Development, last produced in 2003, “considers all facets of community life,” officials say.

Public input is key in the process and to date has been a “tremendous success,” John Zbell, chairman of the town’s planning commission, said in a statement.

To this point, residents have offered suggestions on how to better Stratford through a survey, a local steering committee, focus groups and personal interviews, officials say.

The opportunity to sound off will present itself once again at a public hearing/workshop next week at the Baldwin Center.

“We have incorporated a wide range of suggestions, ideas and concerns into the draft plan,” Zbell said. “The June 12 public meeting will provide residents the opportunity to see their contributions and provide further input.”

The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. and will be facilitated by the town’s consultant for the plan, peter j. smith & company, inc., of Buffalo, N.Y.

Among the areas the long-range plan embodies are population, growth, housing, transportation, waterways, parks and open spaces, and the economy.