Write the Wilton Inland Wetland Commission to Support the SSND/Hines Wetlands Permit Application

The developer of the SSND/Hines project recently submitted its application for Inland Wetland approval, and is asking those who support the project to write in support of the application.

You should send emails to the following town staff people:: mike.conklin@wiltonct.gov and Elizabeth.larkin@wiltonct.gov.

Reference the following in the subject line:

App.No. WET#25-14(S); Hines SL Wilton Associates, LP – 329, 331 & 345 Belden Hill Road

You should only mention wetlands-related issues in the email. Letters addressing Planning & Zoning issues, such as use of the property or traffic, can only be submitted once the Planning & Zoning application is filed.

Below are several wetlands-focused points you can reference, taken directly from the applicant’s Inland Wetlands application.

Points to Mention in Your Letter of Support:

Site History & Opportunity for Improvement

  • The property was developed before modern wetlands regulations and stormwater standards existed, resulting in outdated drainage conditions.

  • Existing conditions include direct discharge of untreated stormwater into nearby wetlands and watercourses.

  • Redevelopment provides a rare opportunity to correct legacy environmental impacts created decades ago.

  • The proposed project allows engineers and environmental professionals to address past deficiencies rather than perpetuate them.

  • The redevelopment thoughtfully reorients site improvements to better respect adjacent wetlands and watercourses.

  • Unlike the existing condition, the proposal introduces modern, science-based stormwater mitigation systems that did not previously exist.

Overall Environmental Benefits

  • The proposed plans are designed to enhance and improve the condition of regulated wetlands and watercourses, not degrade them.

  • The project replaces outdated drainage practices with a comprehensive, environmentally responsible stormwater system.

  • The redevelopment will result in measurable improvements in water quality leaving the site.

  • The plan reflects current best practices in low-impact development and environmental stewardship.

  • The project aligns with the spirit and intent of wetlands protection regulations by improving conditions rather than maintaining the status quo.

Stormwater Quality Improvements

  • Impervious coverage will change by approximately 3.23 acres, triggering the implementation of advanced stormwater treatment.

  • Untreated stormwater runoff will be replaced by a multifaceted drainage “treatment train” designed to remove pollutants.

  • Stormwater will be collected, cleaned, stored, and infiltrated rather than directly discharged.

  • Catch basins and area drains will include sumps and bell traps to remove coarse sediment and floatable debris.

  • Oil and grit separators will further remove fine sediment, hydrocarbons, and debris before infiltration.

  • These measures represent a significant improvement over existing conditions, where no treatment is currently provided.

Infiltration & Groundwater Recharge

  • Underground infiltration systems will allow stormwater to recharge groundwater instead of overwhelming surface waters.

  • Select “wick” fill systems will enable slow, controlled release of clean stormwater toward wetlands.

  • This approach increases the effective infiltration footprint, improving soil absorption.

  • Controlled seepage will help restore more natural surface hydrology to downstream wetlands.

  • The proposal helps correct historic drainage patterns that previously bypassed and drained wetlands.

Wetland Hydrology Enhancement

  • Slow stormwater release at the toe of slope is intended to support healthier wetland moisture levels.

  • The system is designed to mimic natural hydrologic processes, rather than forcing rapid runoff.

  • Improvements may help stabilize wetland vegetation and ecological function over time.

  • The project actively works to improve downstream wetland conditions, not just avoid impacts.

Green Infrastructure Features

  • A rain garden along the western edge of the amenity courtyard will capture and infiltrate stormwater runoff.

  • Rain gardens provide both water quality treatment and ecological benefit.

  • These features demonstrate a commitment to visible, functional green infrastructure.

  • The design integrates stormwater management into the landscape in a thoughtful and environmentally sensitive manner.

Regulatory Compliance & Best Practices

  • Most stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces will meet Town and State Water Quality Volume requirements.

  • The system complies with Connecticut DEEP stormwater and disconnection standards.

  • Peak stormwater discharge rates will be reduced for all storms up to and including the 100-year event.

  • Reduced peak flows will help prevent erosion and sedimentation in downstream channels.

  • The project provides greater protection to wetlands and watercourses during extreme storm events.

Net Positive Outcome

  • Overall, the proposal represents a net environmental benefit compared to existing conditions.

  • The project replaces unmanaged runoff with a comprehensive, modern stormwater solution.

  • Approval of the application would allow for meaningful environmental remediation of a long-developed site.

  • The redevelopment demonstrates how responsible development can improve wetland health while meeting modern standards.

  • The plan reflects careful engineering, environmental responsibility, and long-term protection of sensitive natural resources.