Norwalk agency says Lakewood walking‑trail proposal is a regulated activity, applicants must seek permit

The Norwalk Conservation Commission and Inland Wetland Agency unanimously determined on Feb. 10 that the Lakewood walking‑trail proposal (declaratory ruling BR26‑356) is a regulated activity and must undergo full review and permitting rather than proceed as an as‑of‑right, nonregulated project.

Ken Hughes, identified as superintendent of parks and public property, presented the city’s concept and introduced designer Chris Trimertola of Alloy Designs. Trimertola said the plan uses switchbacks, a short ADA‑accessible loop, a steeper "adventurous" loop and an overlook. "Most of these contours are just very minor... all we're doing is creating the path," Trimertola said when describing how trails fit within the existing landform.

Designers said trail surfaces would be stabilized gravel (decomposed granite with a polymer binder), edged with boulders for erosion control, and would include a small, no‑mow meadow area to improve sight lines. Commissioners questioned long‑term erosion control, the width of some junctions, stair and footing construction near the watercourse, and the extent of proposed disturbance within the 100‑foot upland review area.

"To the extent you're putting in stairs right within the Upland Review area, which have footings and holdings, you're putting materials in and potentially removing trees," one commissioner said, arguing the work rises to the level of regulated activity. Staff reviewed Section 4 of the commission's regulations and the mapped 100‑foot upland review area and recommended treating the proposal as regulated when elements include grading, stair footings, plantings and deliberate deposition of materials.

The chair moved that the work is regulated, the motion was seconded, and the commission voted unanimously that the application cannot be treated as a nonregulated declaratory ruling; applicants were told to return with permit materials and additional engineering/erosion‑control plans.

Next steps: Parks & Rec and the project designers will prepare permit applications and supplemental studies requested by staff; the commission will consider those materials at a future meeting.