House Republican Press Release

April 2, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. CAFERO PUSHES FOR ALTERNATIVE OPTION ON ROUTE 7 INTERCHANGE

HARTFORD – House Republican Leader state Rep. Lawrence F. Cafero Jr., today urged the state transportation agency to change its stance on construction of the Route 7 interchange with Route 15 in order to limit the impact on construction to the surrounding wooded area.

Writing to state Department of Transportation Acting Commissioner H. James Boise, Cafero said he supported the alternative design known as Alternate 12A because it  would limit construction to an area entirely within the existing Route 7 Northeast Utilities corridor.

“Alternate 12A would not require the clearing of woodlands east of Perry Avenue from Rae Lane to Louden Street, which would destroy the character of the neighborhood,’’ Cafero wrote. “Another reason I support 12a is the reduced impact on the environment, specifically the wetlands.’’

Cafero pointed out to Boise that Norwalk already is experiencing severe flooding in some areas and additional erosion caused by destruction of wetlands and impermeable surfaces would only make matters worse.

“I hope the Department pursues the most environmentally friendly option when construction of the project resumes,’’ Cafero said.

Cafero said he found it ironic that the original design and construction of the project was halted by a court order primarily because those most affected were hampered when trying to provide their input. Now it seems residents’ concerns are being ignored when it comes to deciding upon a final design. He said he was “disappointed’’ that the DOT is favoring the “Modified Cloverleaf,’’ option instead.