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Wetlands agency schedules public hearing for axe factory application

By John Fitts 

Staff Writer 


CANTON – The town’s Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency has scheduled a site walk and a public hearing for a permit application related to proposed work at the history Axe Factory site in Collinsville. 

The wetlands application was formally received by the agency on May 9. A wetlands permit is  one of several local and state regulatory approvals necessary before a company looking to revitalize the property can begin extensive site work that would include soil remediation, grading, and utility installation. That preparation work and horizontal infrastructure is extensive and needs to be done before other, more visible changes can be made. 

Nearly 50 businesses operate at the complex – home to the world famous Collins Co. from 1826 to 1966 – but several structures have been lost over time and much of the site’s infrastructure is aging rapidly. Redevelopment has long been a goal for the town, although there are many and varied viewpoints on how it should be done. 

Lisa and Merritt Tilney, through their company Collinsville Redevelopment Company, are seeking to revitalize the 19.3-acre site with a mixed-use plan that include renovation of some 155,000 square feet of existing buildings, repair of 2,000 feet of man-made waterworks and construction of three new residential buildings that would include 224 apartments and 48 condominiums with parking below the buildings. Additionally, plans include 16 condominium units for the circa 1843 granite building. 

“Our goal is to rehabilitate the site and strengthen the connection to Collinsville Main Street and the Farmington River,” their web site states. “CRC is proposing to renovate many of the existing buildings and waterways, and to add new residential units, offering upgraded space to existing and new tenants while enhancing the extraordinary character of the site. We hope to keep many of our current tenants and to attract new businesses with a mix of retail, office, restaurant, cultural, and light industrial uses.”

Lisa and Merritt's father, Rusty Tilney, is principal of At Collinsville, LLC, which has owned the 19.3-acre complex since 2002. CRC has an option to purchase the property when approvals are secured.

On April 25, CRC, via its agent – Landscape Architectural Design Associates – formally filed the wetlands application. It seeks approval for the work in what’s known as the Upland Review Area – areas that fall within 100 feet of a wetland or watercourse. Approximately 12 acres on the site fits into that category due to the Farmington River and manmade waterways. Work would take place over about 7.5 acres of that area. 

The repair and restoration of the waterways on site are under the jurisdiction of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP), according to the wetlands application. The Tilneys plan to formally seek a dam safety permit from the state as early as this summer. 

Other work that needs to be done includes, but is not limited, to:

• Removal of contaminated soils on the brownfield site

• Installation of utilities and roadways (known as horizontal infrastructure)

• Excavation of 820 linear feet of foundations for new residential buildings

• Paving for driveways and parking

• Removal of invasive plantings

• Replacement and Expansion of an existing bridge over the canal

• Installation of new plants and ground cover

The local wetlands application goes into much detail on those points and the erosion and sedimentation controls, stormwater management and species protection that will be employed at each step.

On May 9, Phil Doyle of Simsbury based Landscape Architectural Design Associates, gave the wetlands agency an overview of the project.

“We’re here to start the approval process for – ultimately – the renovation and the restoration of the property,” Doyle said. 

Doyle reviewed numerous survey sheets and other visual aspects of the plan, speaking to aspects such as the history of the site, precise building and slab locations, the goal of reducing impervious surface, remediation plans and related earthwork removal estimates, erosion control methods, infrastructure needs, as well as rain gardens and other stormwater management techniques. 

He also touched on plans for improved emergency access, green spaces and more. 

To put it all in context, Doyle also reviewed the overall development concept and noted aspects such as the plan to keep the tradition of commercial spaces on the western portion of the property, light industrial uses near the center of it and add residential uses to the eastern portion of the land. Doyle noted some likely uses for some of the existing buildings to the west of the Farmington River Trail, such as a coffee shop, art gallery and brewery. He also noted that parking will be street parking and in the case of some of the new residential – below those structures. There is no “parking deck” or garage proposed in this application – a controversial component of a previous plan for the property from a different party. 

“We wanted to make sure we’re actually reducing the impervious surface and improving the look of the property,” Doyle said. “Now, none of that has anything to do with the wetland applications but I want to understand, when you’re looking at wetlands issues and work we’re doing in the upland review area, why we’re doing it. We’re doing it to achieve some goal.”

After some further presentation from Doyle, including the multiple levels of erosion control, the commission discussed next steps, eventually settling on the morning of May 23 at 8:30 a.m. to walk the site. While many are familiar with the property, commissioners noted it would help visualize the plans. 

“I think a site walk would be beneficial,” Wetlands agency chair Eric Henry said. 

“As good as this is,” said Robert Bahre as he pointed to the plans, “It’s easier to orientate yourself if you walk it and see what you’re talking about on site – no question about it.”

The commission agreed with the assessment that the work would not constitute a “significant impact activity” that would require a public hearing, but members, after some discussion, voted to schedule one, due to the high public interest in the property. 

“We want to be transparent about what we do here and we want to have the public involved,” Henry said. “Most of the time they’re not interested…. The scale of this project is as big as any project I’ve seen come before this agency.”

That public hearing was set for the June meeting, noted on the town’s web site as June 13. 

While the Tilney sisters and several other professionals working on the project were also at the May 9 meeting, and answered some questions, they did not give formal presentations, but some are likely to do so at the hearing, going into more detail on the matters Doyle spoke to. The commission will continue its consideration of the application that evening as well. 

The agendas weren’t officially posted at press time but closer to that planned hearing date, people can verify meeting details via the drop-down menus at https://www.townofcantonct.org/agendas-minutes-meetings

Residents should note that the hearing is related to wetlands agency matters.  The number of preliminarily planned housing units, for example, is not under the purview of the agency. Such questions will be vetted when an application gets to the Planning and Zoning Commission and a final site plan could differ from the concept plan. 

Those interesting in reading application documents can visit https://townofcantonct.org/IWWA-packet/?FeedID=3840 

Look for the 10 Depot St. file under the 5-9-24 meeting packet.

For more on the project overall see our previous story at  https://www.valleypressextra.com.


Removal of contaminated soils is one major focus of the wetlands application. While there have been several site investigations over the years, some of the most recent reports come as part the Phase III Environmental Site Assessments from GZA Environmental. The work was funded by state Department of Economic Community Development (DECD) Brownfield Grant, as the site fits into that category, defined as “any abandoned or underutilized site where redevelopment, reuse or expansion has not occurred due to the presence or potential presence of pollution in the buildings, soil or groundwater that requires investigation or remediation before or in conjunction with the restoration, redevelopment, reuse and expansion of the property.” The image above details some of the cleanup needed. While it might be hard to see, people can visit https://townofcantonct.org/IWWA-packet and find the May 9 packet. The documents will be under the 10 Depot St. folder

Above: This overall site plan shows a concept of how final development could look with commercial uses continuing on the western portion of the site, while uses such as light industrial, an art gallery, coffee shop and brewery could occupy the middle of the site. Residential uses, as conceived, would go on the eastern portion beyond the Farmington River Trail. While many are interested in such uses and this image adds context, issues such as number of housing units are not relevant to the wetlands hearing. That would come in the Planning and Zoning stage later on when a proposed site plan is filed.

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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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