Southington PZC Decides SHS Athletics Facility/Parking Project

SOUTHINGTON, CT — After a short, one-month delay, Southington High School has received the go-ahead from the town to begin a major tennis court, athletic lighting and parking lot project.

The Southington Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved a school site plan Tuesday, June 2, for new tennis courts, athletic court lighting and parking improvements at 720 Pleasant St.

The commission voted 7-0 to approve the application from Southington Public Schools after reviewing updates to the plan, which had been tabled from a May 5 meeting while town staff and engineering questions were addressed.

Chris Hulk, a professional engineer with CEH Engineering and Consulting, represented Southington Public Schools.

He said the proposal calls for removing existing tennis courts and a grass field and installing new tennis courts, athletic court lighting and associated parking on the R-20/25-zoned property.

Commissioner Robert Britton asked what changes had been made since the prior meeting.

Hulk said an underground stormwater detention system was added on the west side of the sports complex to comply with new state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection water quality regulations.

He said split-rail fencing was also added around the detention basin for safety.

Hulk also said concerns about a sign and plantings near the road had been addressed.

Sight lines exceed 650 feet in both directions, he said, and the sign would be at least 15 feet from the roadway.

Southington PZC Chairman Steve Walowski asked whether there would be enough room to mow around the detention pond. Hulk replied, "Yes."

Walowski also asked whether existing fencing would protect parked cars from home run balls.

Hulk said there is 35 feet between the fence line and the parking lot, along with a 6-foot fence in front of the parking spaces.

He said the applicant would be willing to install netting if it becomes necessary.

Commissioner Caleb Cowles asked about fencing along the right-side parking lot.

Hulk said the plan includes a 6-foot metal picket fence similar to those used on college campuses, describing it as visually appealing and see-through.

For the minutes of the June 2 Southington Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, click on this link.

From May 12: 'Southington HS Athletics, Parking Upgrades On Hold After PZC Vote'