Lawmakers, DOT discuss reopening road in Beacon Falls

Offers access to state park

State Rep. Theresa Conroy, D-Seymour, and state Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, D-Woodbridge, met this week with local and state officials about permanently opening Cold Spring Road in Beacon Falls to provide access to High Rock State Park.

The road is a key point of access for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders who use the state forest for recreation.

“Opening the road is essential for people who enjoy outdoor activities in Beacon Falls,” Conroy said. “High Rock State Park is part of the economic engine of the town. Stores and restaurants benefit when we have people come from across the region to use the hiking and snowmobiling trails.”

State Department of Transportation officials have closed the road citing safety concerns and the road’s proximity to the rail line with no safety barrier. 

Conroy was alerted to the issue by Robert Bradley of Beacon Falls Pharmacy who is one of the organizers of the Naugatuck Valley Canoe and Kayak Race and Riverfest on May 4. 
Race organizers usually have emergency personnel and race staff staged along the road to easily reach racers in distress.

“This meeting was very productive in that we agreed on the important local and regional role played by High Rock State Park and agreed that providing safe access to the park is in everyone's best interests,” Crisco said.
 “I'm particularly pleased that we reached an interim compromise for the short term, with a commitment to keep working toward what would be longer term or permanent access to this popular recreational destination.”

At the meeting, DOT agreed to approve temporary (opening) for race personnel during the Naugatuck Valley Canoe and Kayak race and agreed to work with the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to find a workable permanent solution.