PZC approves dentist office permit at 1100 Boston Turnpike with environmental, safety conditions

The Bolton Planning & Zoning Commission approved a special permit for a dentist’s office at 1100 Boston Turnpike on Sept. 13, 2017, voting 6–0–0 to grant application PL-17-3. The approval includes seven conditions: a Connecticut Department of Transportation referral for the curb cut, revisions to easements per the Town Attorney, verification that fire apparatus can access the site, placement of the approval letter on the mylars to be recorded with the Town Clerk, compliance with Health District and Town Engineer comments, required professional seals on recorded plans, and the owner’s maintenance of a western drainage swale.

Timothy Coon, an engineer with BSC Group representing the applicant, presented plans showing a single dentist facility as the first of three proposed commercial lots, a boulevard-style entry, connected driveways and parking oriented south toward Route 44 to keep patient windows facing north. The plan includes landscaping and a rain garden intended to buffer the road and protect wetlands; the commission discussed lighting, plantings and wetland protections with staff and the applicant. Patrice Carson said staff requests had been met, and Commissioner Arlene Fiano recommended using native plantings that would be "less likely to attract" deer.

Public comments included support from First Selectman Robert Morra, who said it was "a great project" and would serve as a low-impact gateway on a state highway, and questions from abutters about erosion control setbacks, stormwater contacts and driveway siting. Abutter Andy Hoar asked how far the silt fence would be set back; the applicant said the standard two-foot setback would be used and the property owner would be the contact. Dorothy Larson asked whether a stop sign could be placed at the site exit; staff explained Route 44 is a state road and any signage or work in the right-of-way requires state approval.

The commission found that, with the stated conditions, the plan meets the Bolton Zoning Regulations. The approval notes a conservation easement related to earthwork and landscaping and requires applicant coordination with the Fire Chief and Fire Marshal to demonstrate adequate access for emergency apparatus.