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Town: Roadway changes will improve safety, allow preservation of historic sycamore

By John Fitts

Staff Writer

The Sycamore from the eastern edge of Cherry Brook Road (Route 179) Town officials said the state has agreed to narrow the lanes on Cherry Brook and shift the yellow Center line and white shoulder line to the east. That will give the town more room to move the stop bar on West Mountain in front of the tree, improving visibility, according to officials. Other visual cues will also be added to aid drivers. Another planned change will be a bigger teardrop “island” - level with the roadway - around the tree itself, providing another visual cue.

CANTON – The sycamore saga of 2023 has seemingly come to a resolution.

At an April 26 Board of Selectmen meeting, officials reported that the state Department of Transportation is willing to narrow travel lanes on Cherry Brook Road near the intersection of West Mountain Road, creating more space to alter travel lanes and other traffic markings. The additional space, combined with other visual cues, will allow the town to improve safety at the intersection while keeping the historic sycamore that sits in the middle of West Mountain Road.

The update came approximately one month after the town had first marked the tree for removal and residents subsequently fought for it to remain in place – saying it was one of those quirky, historical features that make Canton special.

“I’m grateful that a solution exists that allows us to save beautiful trees and still function within safe state traffic parameters,” said Nikki Wardwell Sleath, a Canton resident who helped spread the word about the tree. “I’m totally fine with the lanes narrowing to move slightly to the other side. The irony is that narrower lanes may mean paying a little more attention, which is all that we really expected in the first place, in order to keep the tree.”

“We are very pleased that this historic sycamore tree, which was planted by Linus Barber in the 1840s, seems to have been saved, and that town officials were receptive to the community’s outpouring of support for the tree," said Katie Kenney, who has been very active in the effort to keep the tree standing. "The current plan to modestly adjust painted lane markers instead of cutting down the tree is a sensible and inexpensive solution that will preserve the tree and I hope make what is already statistically one of the safer intersections on Cherry Brook Road even safer.”


A brief history

It was on March 24, following Board of Selectmen review of a town memo on safety concerns at the intersection of West Mountain and Cherry Brook roads, that the town’s tree warden Thomas Richardson posted to a removal notice on the tree. In a report prompted by a complaint about the tree, the town noted line of site issues, accidents that had occurred at the site, as well as challenges for emergency vehicles, school buses and snowplows in navigating and/or avoiding the intersection.

The action prompted strong reactions from residents, whose objections forced a public hearing. However, the town subsequently decided to remove the notice and cancel the hearing and instead consider transferring $25,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funding set aside for showers at the community center (which is used as an emergency shelter) – for a study of the intersection.

Concurrent to some of those actions, residents continued to discuss the issue. Social media posts were numerous. On some days, pages devoted to town discussion and issues were filled with dozens of posts and updates.

But action went well beyond online opinion. At least two attorneys in town filed Freedom of Information requests on the issue and resident Lans Perry, whose family has a long history in Canton Center, even hired a traffic engineer at F.A. Hesketh and Associates to study the intersection.

When it met on April 12, the Board of Selectmen continued to hear from residents during the public comment period. Many objected to the transfer of funds, with several asserting it was a solution for a problem that didn’t exist.

Selectmen and Police Chief Christopher Arciero discussed traffic data and the board eventually tabled the discussion, so town staff could continue to explore solutions. One idea was to have the town contract F.A. Hesketh and Associates to see if it could build on the work done for Perry. Some selectmen felt that could potentially cost much less than the $25,000.

Looking north from West Mountain Road. Partially visible are two more sycamores along Cherry Brook Road.

April 26 meeting

After hearing from several more residents on April 26, Canton Chief Administrative Officer Robert Skinner told selectmen that three productive meetings had taken place since the April 12 meeting.

First was one with traffic engineer Scott Hesketh, who reviewed several options with the town. He, like others, also noted that the state’s clearing along Route 179 had already improved sightlines when along the road to the south of West Mountain Road.

“[Scott Hesketh] was helpful,” Skinner said. “He was very gracious and we appreciated information he gave us and his time.”

On April 21, a handful of town officials again went to the site to take some measurements at the intersection and discuss whether the stop bar on West Mountain Road could be moved back or forward to improve sightlines.

On April 24, several town officials and staff returned to the site with engineers from the state Department of Transportation.

Several ideas were discussed – including one built on conversations with Hesketh – about the possibility of “moving” Cherry Brook over to the west.

In practical terms that would be difficult due to topography and other issues, but the DOT said that the roadway lanes, currently at 11 ½ and 12 feet, could be narrowed to 11 feet. That would allow the center and white shoulder lines on Cherry Brook Road to be moved over – along with the stop line on West Mountain.

“If you were to shorten up the lanes to 11 feet, you would actually gain some distance and looking at that – they could effectively move Cherry Brook over 1 ½ to two feet,” Skinner said. As you can come to the intersection, the white line at the shoulder line would be moved out and over so people following it would obviously move out further away from the tree, so we’d move the traffic further away from the tree.”

Looking south from West Mountain Road. Clearing done by the state has already improved visibility, officials said.

Additionally – at the intersection - the state can use alternating paint lines – known as cat tracks – to provide another visual cue, Skinner said.

Another suggestion by the DOT, he added, was to create a type of teardrop island around the tree. While level with the roadway, it would begin with a thinner border behind it and a wider one near Cherry Brook. It could even include reflectors and would give additional visual clues to drivers on both roads.

“It would give people the indication they’re coming up on the tree,” Skinner said. “More importantly, it would give the person as they pull out beside the tree how far they can pull out before they’re in the line of traffic.”

Clearing a little more pavement around the Sycamore could also benefit the tree, officials said.

Selectmen had questions but reacted positively to the proposal.

“I want to thank you for all the effort you and the town staff have put into this – to research this thing thoroughly and to find ways to preserve the tree and save money at the same time,” First Selectman Robert Bessel said to Skinner.

Selectmen then discussed denying the motion they had made, tabled and brought back up – meaning they would not move the $25,000. (In fact, later in the meeting Bessel noted the town is hoping to get some grants that would free up more ARPA funding in the hopes of adding to the showers account)

“I’d like to suggest we deny that motion, because it doesn’t seem to be necessary right now,” Tim LeGeyt said.

Selectman Bill Volovski, who had already opposed the funding plan on April 12, concurred.

“The people have spoken and the vast majority of the people we’ve heard from don’t feel there’s a problem or a safety issue with the tree,” he said, adding that he felt the showers was an important project that might only get done with ARPA funds.

While the sycamore might be saved, controversial aspects still remain. At the April 26 meeting, Skinner presented Cherry Brook Road accident data from Police Chief Chris Arciero. It detailed accidents that had occurred on the road since 2011 – breaking down which involved crashes that had actually occurred at intersections versus those for which officers just noted the nearest intersection on reports.

It stated that the accident total was 172 with 18 taking place at intersections. According to the report 6 of those intersection accidents were at West Simsbury Road (Route 309) and 5 at West Mountain Road. The next highest was Wright Road at 3 and the rest were at 1 or 0. (The Route 44 and Cherry Brook Road intersection was not included in the data as officials noted that was a much busier area).

While Bessel has defended the data, the information was met with skepticism by some attending at the meeting, as some residents had previously presented data they asserted showed additional intersections along Route 179 with higher accident numbers than West Mountain.

Another point of some debate is the age of the tree. A submission from Perry asserted that Linus Barber (sometimes spelled Barbour) planted the tree in 1840. Some have suggested a plaque at the tree in honor of Barber.

At the meeting, Marianne Humphrey Burbank, a member of the Canton Center Historic District Commission, said the commission is planning to discuss the idea of a plaque and she told selectmen to consider that and suggested that perhaps a local garden club would be willing to add plantings around the tree.

“I’d like you all to consider that fact when you are considering the recommendations regarding saving the tree because I know you all want to save the tree,” she said.

At the meeting, LeGeyt said he has looked at records and does not believe the tree is that old.

“I don’t think it’s 180 years old. It doesn’t look big... I looked at references that Lans had and I don’t think the tree was planted by Linus Barber,” LeGeyt said. “I’m glad to have some historical reference to the tree put up there but I don’t think it should reference that age or Linus Barber.”

Perry said he is a state licensed forester and expert on trees and forest dynamics. He is standing by the assertion that the tree is circa 1840. A message Perry sent to the Valley Press regarding the issue referenced other historic trees in the area and stated in part, “The sycamores in question and an associated white pine are within the diameter range one would expect for trees planted in 1840 given their growing site conditions and local resource competitors.”

At the meeting, LeGeyt said he was glad the tree was being saved but also expressed some ongoing concern about large vehicles navigating the intersection.

Officials noted that widening West Mountain Road could be challenging, especially give the proximity of wetlands, slopes and - to the north – two more of the older, historic sycamores.

Regardless of those ongoing issues, and some community assertions that residents need to be more involved in the process of town government – many have positively reacted to the sycamore solution. Selectmen directed Bessel to formally request the changes to the Cherry Brook Road - as the DOT plans to repave the road this year. (The DOT media team did not immediately respond to a press inquiry from the Valley Press about the issue).

The work on the island around the tree itself would likely fall to the town but Skinner said he believes that could be funded under the town’s pavement management program.

The tree has certainly been a persistent issue and Bessel said he estimates that upwards of 200 people have emailed the town about it.

“I credit the public for speaking up and saying this tree’s important. It’s important enough for us to weigh in,” said Bessel, who was elected to the position in 2019. “I’ve said it before; I’ve never received more email on any other issue than I have for the sycamore tree on West Mountain Road.”

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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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