Norwich Committee Delays Decision On Restored World War I Howitzer's Return To Chelsea Parade

NORWICH, CT — The Norwich Public Works and Capital Improvements Committee held off on approving an application to return a restored World War I howitzer to Chelsea Parade during its Oct. 19 meeting, with members divided over whether the proposal was ready for approval.

The committee accepted the application for review but did not take a vote to approve it. Alderman Peter Nystrom urged the committee to move forward so the artillery piece could be installed by Nov. 11, while Alderwoman Sheila Hayes, the committee's chairwoman, said she needed more time to examine the proposal.

Dale Plummer submitted the application to have the howitzer returned to Chelsea Parade following its restoration. The City Council authorized the restoration in 2018, and the work has been completed.

The application calls for the Department of Public Works to pour a concrete pad to support and anchor the howitzer.

Plummer and Ellen Larson addressed the committee about the project, saying the goal was to have the artillery piece installed by Nov. 11, in time for the 100th anniversary referenced in their presentation.

Nystrom discussed the history of the howitzer and the council's 2018 authorization. He said the purpose of displaying the howitzer and other wartime artifacts was to remind people of the consequences of world wars and discourage future conflicts.

He urged committee members to act before the proposed deadline, saying the city had an opportunity to commemorate an event with significance for Norwich residents and others affected by similar weapons.

Hayes said she had not had sufficient time to review the application and ask questions, making her uncomfortable with approving it at the meeting.

Nystrom asked that the record reflect his preference for approving the application immediately.

Public Works Director Brian Long withdrew a separate monument application submitted by his department in favor of Plummer's proposal.

Road, Sidewalk And Infrastructure Projects Reviewed

The committee also received updates on several ongoing and planned public works projects, including sidewalk construction, road paving, bridge improvements and parking garage rehabilitation.

The department reported the following:

• West Town Street sidewalks: Construction of sidewalks between Huntington School and the hotels on West Town Street, part of the Community Connectivity project, is expected to begin in spring 2027.
• New London Turnpike Bridge: WMC and the Connecticut Department of Transportation are determining the engineering firm's scope of work and fee. Design work will begin after approval.
• New London Turnpike North pedestrian improvements: Construction began April 6 and is scheduled for completion in late November 2026. The project includes bicycle lanes, except between the bridge and Town Street, where sharrows will be used.
• New London Turnpike South sidewalks: Construction under the LOTCIP program is expected to begin in spring 2027.
• Fontaine Field improvements: Construction is projected to begin in spring 2027, allowing Norwich Free Academy to use the field during fall 2026. The city has approved the project for permitting.
• Market Street Garage: The construction contract was awarded to G.L. Capasso, with completion anticipated in November 2026.
• Main Street Garage: O&S Engineers was awarded the garage assessment and rehabilitation design work. Site review has begun.
• Hunters Road reconstruction and culvert replacement: A request for proposals for design services has been posted, with submissions due Nov. 27.
• Mish Drive relocation: Bohler is designing the road realignment as part of the Occum Industrial Park project. The Connecticut Department of Transportation's involvement is limited to permitting.

Norwich Paving Program Continues

The city's 2026 paving program, covering a total of 4.1 miles, remained underway at the time of the meeting.

The department identified Erin Street, White Street, South Golden Street, Central Court, Warren Street and Berkley Road as the next roads scheduled for paving.

Chip sealing had also been completed on Huntington Avenue, Plain Hill Road and Canterbury Turnpike.

Committee Approves Previous Minutes, Adjourns On Split Vote

The committee unanimously approved minutes from its Aug. 17 regular meeting and Aug. 31 special meeting. Nystrom made the motion, which Hayes seconded.

No property disposition matters or new business were reported.

The meeting adjourned at 5:03 p.m. following a 2-1 vote. Alderman Zato Kadambaya made the motion to adjourn, and Hayes seconded it. Nystrom voted against adjournment.

The meeting was held at 50 Clinton Ave.