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The parcel, located along Hecker Avenue, will provide a scenic view of the brook and a link to a trails system slated to be created between nearby buildings.
“Preserving our open space allows Connecticut to maintain its natural beauty and contributes to our quality of life,” said Duff who sponsored and led passage of state legislation strengthening Connecticut’s open space laws. “Environmental stewardship is about protecting our state’s natural resources. That means clean air, unpolluted waterways and plenty of open space for residents to reconnect with nature.”
Leone praised the grant. “In order to preserve the natural character of Darien, it is important that we continue protecting land around Stony Brook and other areas of the community,” he said. “The grant will allow the Town of Darien to ensure this parcel of land on Hecker Avenue will be free from development so that it may be enjoyed by future generations.”
Tong called the grant great news for the people of Darien. "I’m very happy that we’re able to preserve this wonderful piece of land while improving access to public services and views along Stony Brook," he said.
The Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition program, administered by the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, assists local governments and land trusts in purchasing open space using funding from the 2005 Community Investment Act and state bond funds. This grant program requires a conservation and public recreation easement that will ensure that the property is forever protected for public use and enjoyment.
Open space protection projects help Connecticut achieve the goal to protect 673,210 acres of land by 2023. Connecticut has 500,242 acres designated as state or local open space lands, 74.3 percent of the goal. More than $125 million in state funding has been awarded to municipalities, nonprofit land conservation organizations and water companies to assist in the purchase of 32,237 acres of land in 135 cities and towns.
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