Farmington Land Trust to Build ‘Polly’s Pier’ To Improve River Access

FARMINGTON, CT — The Farmington Land Trust announced plans to build a new accessible fishing pier and viewing platform along the Farmington River at its Douglass-Mount parcel off the Farmington River Trail in Unionville.

The structure, to be called “Polly’s Pier,” will honor Farmington resident and community activist Marie "Polly" Hincks, who died in 2017 at the age of 89.

The land trust will host a public launch event for the campaign on Sunday, March 29, from 2 to 4 p.m. at 8738 River Road in Unionville, the future site of the pier.

Naming rights were made possible through a donation from Dan and Sarah Hincks, which will support construction of the facility.

Polly Hincks is recognized for her advocacy for people with disabilities, including her involvement in establishing New Horizons Village, an assisted living facility, in the Unionville section of Farmington.

The land trust said the project is intended to continue that work by ensuring accessible riverfront access.

“This pier represents FLT’s commitment to making nature accessible to everyone,” said Kristin Flyntz, executive director of the Farmington Land Trust. “We are proud to see it named in honor of Polly, whose life and advocacy reflected the same values, ensuring her legacy continues to open doors and pathways for others.”

An earlier accessible fishing pier at the site served residents for more than 20 years before it was removed last year due to deterioration.

The planned replacement includes an 80-foot pier and a 16-by-16-foot viewing platform. It is part of the organization’s “River Access for All” initiative, which aims to expand recreational access and create an inclusive space along the river.

Project supporters include the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, Farmington Community Chest, Lower Farmington River & Salmon Brook Wild & Scenic Partnership, Ion Bank, the Perra Family Foundation, and the Farmington River Watershed Association.

The Farmington Land Trust manages 71 preserved parcels across Farmington to protect open space, wildlife habitat, and the town’s natural character.

To watch a video on this weekend's event, click on this link.

From Sept. 15, 2025: 'Major Farmington River Access Project's Details Released: UPDATE'