House Republican Press Release

March 13, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Hovey Secures DOT Agreement for Feasibility Study on Closing of Town Green Cut-Thru

The state Department of Transportation has approved a request from state Representative DebraLee Hovey for a study that would evaluate the feasibility of closing a paved roadway that cuts through the Monroe town green.

“For several years now, the Town Green Committee has been working to close a two-lane cut-through near the war memorial on the town green,” said Representative Hovey, R-112^th District. “I asked the Department of Transportation to send a team to Monroe to study the feasibility of closing the roadway and I’m pleased to report that after a meeting today between DOT officials, myself, members of the Town Green Committee, the first selectman and the Monroe Department of Public Works, the DOT has agreed to do the assessment.”

“The cut-through, which has been there for more than 50 years, originally was just a dirt path that was paved over at some time in the past,” Representative Hovey said. “However, since it now is depicted on the state map and state road signs are adjacent to it, the state probably will have to agree to the proposal to close this small section of paved road - even though it is located on the green, which is owned by the surrounding churches. “

“This study is the first step in a process that will provide information to make a sound judgment on the proposal,” Representative Hovey said. “I believe it is important for the selectmen’s office to have accurate information about the ramifications of closing the cut-through. Only then can they determine if it is in the best interest of everyone to move forward with the change."

After the study is completed, the DOT will send copies to Representative Hovey and the first selectman’s office.