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Development proposed for 100 Nod Road in Avon

By John Fitts

Staff Writer

This aerial, taken from the Inland Wetlands application, shows the site of the proposed development.

AVON – A local developer is proposing 55 residential units on a 9.3-acre parcel along Nod Road and is seeking a wetlands permit for regulated activities, one of the first approvals needed for the project.

After determining at a Dec. 6 meeting that the project would have substantial public interest, the Inland Wetlands commission scheduled a public hearing for the evening of Jan. 9.

The development, which is dubbed Eagles’ Point, is being proposed by 100 Nod Way, LLC, which is associated with The Keystone Companies, based in Simsbury.

The plan for 100 Nod Road calls for 13 single family homes set on small lots of 0.26 acres or less and 8 separate duplexes containing a total of 42 units on a 6.52-acre portion of the land.

The homes would include separate driveways to Nod Way and the townhouses would be accessed from a private driveway intersecting Nod Way and Nod Road, the application states.

The land was once part of the Blue Fox Run Golf Course but in 1997, the town straightened a portion of Nod Road by paving a connection between two sharp curves, according to the application.

That curve was renamed Nod Way and the land now sits between it and Nod Road.

The application asserts that no wetlands would be negatively affected by the development.

According to the application, the town’s activities “channelized” an open watercourse of the south end of the property – a segment of a small stream, - which runs east to west and enters and exits the property through underground culverts installed by the town, the application states. A “fringe” of woodland wetland borders that stream on site, according to the application

The town also channelized an intermittent watercourse in the northeast corner of the site, according to the application. The development would not change existing discharge and drainage, according to the application.

The northwest and southwestern portions of the development are within the 100-foot upland review area, but only small portions, the application states.

One driveway and related site improvements in the northwestern part of construction would be within 100-foot upland review area but that area does not drain toward the stream, according to the application.

On the southwestern portion of the property, the only activity within the 100-foot upland review area would be the extension of a water main within the paved portion of Nod Road, a relatively brief activity, the application states.

“No activities are proposed within wetlands and watercourses, and, as such, no direct impacts will occur,” Timothy S. Hollister, partner at Hartford-based Hinckley Allen wrote in the application. “The proposed site improvements are designed to avoid indirect impacts to any function of a wetland or watercourse, in the short and long-term, through the incorporation of various best management practices such as a soil erosion and sediment control measures and stormwater management measures.

Overall, the development will result in an increase in impervious coverage. To mitigate and manage stormwater runoff from these impervious surfaces, three water quality treatment basins are proposed. These basins will manage runoff from each of the single-family residences as well as the multi-family buildings and the associated impervious surfaces. In addition to managing onsite stormwater runoff, the development has been designed to also manage the stormwater runoff from Nod Way and from land to the east that currently discharges to the property via a culvert from Nod Way.”

The application also asserts that wetlands delineation determined that other wetlands or watercourses indicated or suggested in published records for the property do not actually exist.

The property is owned by 100 Nod Way, LLC. the principal of that company is The Keystone Companies, based in Simsbury, which purchased the property from Nod Road Properties, Lisa Wilson Foley principal, for $800,000 in February of 2020, according to town records.

The property was then deeded to 100 Nod Way, LLC, records indicate.

P. Anthony Giorgio, PhD is managing director of Nod Road Properties, according to the application. He is also principal of the Keystone Companies, according to state filings.

Nod Road development has been the subject of fierce debate in the past few years and the Inland Wetlands Commission twice denied proposals by Keystone and other partners to amend the town’s wetlands map for a planned development on a portion of the Blue Fox Run Golf Course in 2019 and 2020. The Planning and Zoning Commission also denied a proposed zone change in 2019.

Central in the those applications was formal resistance from Nod Road Preservation, Inc., which ran a Save Nod Road Campaign and those meetings on the proposed development were, at times, quite contentious.

Nod Road Preservation Inc. president Chris Carville noted that the group has been expecting the application for 100 Nod Road.

“We’ve been watching and waiting for an application on this property,” Carville wrote in a message to the Valley Press. “We knew it was just a matter of time. We’ve been talking with our supporters, and we are all paying close attention to how this application proceeds.”

Carville did not go into detail about how the group would react at the public hearings or if it would put in the professional resources it did for the development proposal for a portion of the golf course, but he did add, “We stand behind our mission statement, which, in part reads: Nod Road Preservation, Inc. (NRP) aims to protect the natural beauty, country peacefulness, and authentic charm associated with Nod Road and the greater Farmington Valley through responsible land management.”

Giorgio has responded to the Valley Press’ inquiries on the property but as of press time had not presented a formal statement on the project beyond what is in the application.

On Dec. 6, the Inland Wetlands Commission concurred with a recommendation by town staff to have the North Central Conservation District review the wetlands report included with the application for 100 Nod Road. Additionally, members set the hearing for Jan. 9, 2023. While the commission has a scheduled meeting earlier in January, at least one member would be away and there were concerns about making sure a quorum was reached, especially since members Michael Feldman and Gary Gianini have recused themselves from the application. They did not specify their reasons, but Feldman is on the abutters list for the application, indicating he lives near the project. And while Feldman said he felt he could be objective, he stated it was best he recused himself for any appearance of lack of objectivity.

In addition to the wetlands commission, the project would need some approvals from the town’s Planning and Zoning Commission but at press time it was not clear how exactly that application would be filed and when.

Sources indicated that the application could come in under the state’s 8-30g affordable housing statute, under which allow the developer to potentially streamline some parts of the typical zoning process, such as not being required to seek a zone change for the agriculturally zoned land.

Developments under the statute also put more of a burden on the town, limiting – but not fully eliminating - the reasons for which a zoning commission in a municipality can deny a development.

The meeting has been set for 6:30 p.m. Jan. 9. See the agenda at https://www.avonct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif151/f/agendas/2023_jan9_specialmeeting.pdf


This drawing, submitted as part of the Inland Wetlands application, shows the proposed housing layout on site.

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Valley Happenings

UPDATED:

Fighting Cancer Pasta Dinner:

Benefit for Avon Volunteer Fire Department

Deputy Chief Dave Theriault

Sunday, February 23, 2025, 3:00-7:00 p.m. 

Farmington Polo Club, 162 Town Farm Road, Farmington

 

AVFD Deputy Chief of Administration Dave Theriault is facing a tough battle against Stage 4 cancer. The AVFD, along with Tunxis Hose Co. No. 1 and the Farmington Fire Department, is holding a pasta dinner to help raise money for Chief Theriault’s medical expenses. Cheese and crackers from 3:00-4:00 p.m., buffet from 4:00-6:00 p.m., and coffee and dessert from 6:00-7:00 p.m. In addition to delicious food, drinks, and camaraderie, the event will feature dozens of raffle prizes. Event tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for seniors and children under 10 years old. They can be purchased at the door or online at www.HometownFoundation.org Contributions can be made via Venmo @supportDave or by mail to the AVFD at 25 Darling Drive, Avon, CT 06001. 

Canton Community Health Fund Applications

Canton Community Health Fund, Inc. Opens 2025 Application Season, on March 1, 2025, for Canton Community Partner Grants & Canton Scholars Pursuing Careers in Healthcare or Public Safety Canton Community Health Fund, Inc. (CCHF), opens its grant and scholarship application season March 1. CCHF encourages State of CT certified non-profits serving the Canton community to apply for Community Partner grants. In addition, graduating high school seniors seeking higher education in healthcare or public safety are invited to apply for either a Dr. Diters Legacy Scholarship or a Pay It Forward Scholarship. Applications and informative Fact Sheets are available online at www.cantoncommunityhealthfund.org.  Community Partner Grant and Scholarship awards will be announced in June/2025.

 

Avon Library events

AVON –The following events are scheduled at Avon Free Public Library. The library is at Avon Library, 281 Country Club Road, Avon. All programs are in person except where noted. For more information on adult programs, contact Adult Services Reference Desk via avonref@avonctlibrary.info 860-673-9712 x 7203

• Antique Map Collecting 101, Saturday, Feb. 1 at 1 p.m. Registration is required: https://www.avonctlibrary.info/event/antique-map-collecting/

• Morning Book Club. Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 10:30 a.m., The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose, Registration is required: https://www.avonctlibrary.info/events/tag/morning-book-club/

• Meditation for Balance and Inner Contentment. (Virtual Event) Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7 pm.

• Eastern Coyotes in Connecticut (Virtual Event) Thursday, Feb. 13 at 6:30 p.m.

• Fashion and the First Lady (Virtual Event). Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 2 p.m.

• Hoop Skirts to Flappers: Eighty Years of Connecticut Fashion. Monday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m.

• The Golden Age of Hollywood. (Virtual Event) Tuesday, March 4 at 2 pm.

 

Simsbury Lions Club

The Simsbury Lions Club is looking for people interested in volunteering and contributing to better our town. Our motto is “We serve,” and we do so by volunteering at local events and donating our proceeds to serving interests in our community.

If interested, please feel free to contact Sandy Kremer at Tprkremer@gmail.com or Philip Painchaud at painchaudp@gmail.com.”

 

Winter sowing workshop

The Farmington Land trust is hosting a winter sowing workshop focused on raising native plants. Make your own up-cycled greenhouse from a milk jug and prep some beneficial native plants for the coming growing season. Sunday, Feb 2 from 11a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Farmington Senior Center. RSVP here: https://www.farmingtonlandtrust.org/event-details/winter-sowing-seminar-native-seed-planting

 

Wild Flowers from Spring to Fall

CANTON – The Cherry Brook Garden Club is hosting a lecture on “Following Our Wild Flowers from Spring to Fall” on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 11 a.m. at the Canton Community Center, lower level, 40 Dyer Avenue. Steve Messier, Lichenologist and former Science teacher at Canton High School will discuss the topic. The lecture is open to the public. There is a $5 guest fee for non-members. Email questions to cherrybrookgardenclub@gmail.com.

 

‘Five Wishes’ at McLean

SIMSBURY – Join Kevin Baran, M.D., medical director, and the McLean Hospice Team for a special “McLean & Me Educational Series” presentation to learn how to talk about and record your wishes for care through the end of life, so those wishes can be understood and respected. The presentation will be held at McLean’s Garmany Performing Arts Center, 50 Sarah Lane, Simsbury, on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 6 p.m. The presentation is free but an RSVP by Feb. 4 is required as seating is limited. A light dinner will be provided.

To register, visit McLeanCare.org/Events, email Margaret.Clark@McLeanCare.org, or call 860-658-3718.

 

‘Art Throb!’ Exhibit

Gallery on the Green presents “Art Throb!” Exhibit plus a Solo Exhibit by Kathi Packer Friday, Feb. 14 through Saturday, March 15. An opening reception is on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 6-8 p.m. and will include refreshments. The show and reception are free.

“Art Throb!” is a heartfelt Valentine’s Day celebration presented by the membership of Canton Artists’ Guild. The artists use a wide range of media including painting, prints, drawing, photography, sculpture, ceramics and mixed media to represent the emotional intensity, joy and complexity of love.

In the upstairs Gallery, Kathi Packer has a solo show, “Another Tale.”  Packer notes that a friend’s casual invitation to go on safari in 2008 substantially changed the direction of her artistic journey.The gallery is located near the intersection of Dowd Avenue and Route 44 at 5 Canton Green Road in Canton. Hours are Friday – Sunday, 1-5 pm. The main floor gallery is handicapped accessible.

Website: http://www.galleryonthegreen.org; Phone:  860-693-4102

 

TABLESCAPES fundraiser returns to benefit the new

Avon History Museum

AVON – The Avon Historical Society invites the public to its sixth TABLESCAPES event showcasing up to 30 creative and original table settings on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15 at the historic North House, 1 Nod Road, Avon.

This event will feature themed table settings from local professional designers, florists, businesses, individuals, artists and others featuring fresh floral arrangements, centerpieces and accessories. Proceeds will benefit the installation of professionally curated exhibits in the new Avon History Museum scheduled to open on Friday, July 4, 2025.

Back by popular demand will be a “Table and Barware Tag Sale” on both days. Admission to TABLESCAPES includes the tag sale. Tickets are $20 each pre-sale and at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at www.avonhistoricalsociety.org or by calling Mary Harrop at 860-670-3225 before March 8.

Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can also call Harrop.

 

Alzheimer’s Support Group

FARMINGTON – Hearts, Hugs & Hope: An Alzheimer’s Support Group takes place Feb. 20, 2025, 6 p.m. at Farmington Station Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, 111 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington. Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. This group is being offered both in person and via Zoom on the third Thursday of each month. If you plan to attend, contact Director of Compass Programming Katherine Jedynasty at kjedynasty@farmingtonslr.com.

 

Used book sale

AVON - A huge book sale will be held Feb. 28 and March 1 in St. Ann’s Church Hall, 289 Arch Road at Route 167.  Hours are Friday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. ($5 adult admission) and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (no admission fee).

Thousands of books will be organized in separate sections, including Fiction, History, Biography, Politics, Children, Music, Cooking, Sports, Art, Vintage, and more!  A large selection of Children’s books will be available.  Fiction books will be divided by hardcover, paperback, and trade paperback and sorted alphabetically by author.  DVDs, CDs, books on CDs, Vinyl records, and puzzles will be available, also.  Most books will be $3 or less with vintage and specialty books priced higher.

 

Daisy Days: All-Girls Summer Day Camp Experience

FARMINGTON – Miss Porter’s School, a renowned institution with a legacy of empowering young women, is excited to announce the launch of Daisy Days, an all-new day camp for girls entering grades 3-5 this fall. Starting this summer, Daisy Days will offer a unique, joy-filled experience designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and inspire self-discovery in an empowering all-girls environment.

For additional details, visit pcgl.porters.org/daisy-days.

 

Artist demonstration

Avon Arts Association will hold a guest artist demonstration featuring  Granby artist Laura Eden on Tuesday, February 18 at  Avon Town Hall, 60 W. Main St., lower level, at 6:30 p.m. Ms. Eden will demonstrate egg tempera painting.

The demo is free and open to the public ($5 suggested donation). A workshop with Ms. Eden will be held at the same location in the Avon Room on Saturday, Feb. 22, 10-2 with  set up at 9:30. Fee: $45 for members, $55 for nonmembers). www.AvonArts.org

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