Staff
Kelsey Wentling
The CT River Gateway Commission, from its founding in 1973, has been professionally and technically supported by regional planning agencies.
Susie Beckman, Regional Planner at the Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments (RiverCOG), began serving as staff to the Gateway Commission in 2023.
Serendipity (and the US Navy) transplanted the Beckmans in Ivoryton in 1997. Susie and husband, Phil, cherish the quality of life experienced in the Lower Connecticut River Valley where they raised their two children. They share a desire to sustain the qualities that make this area such a treasured place for all of us lucky enough to live here or visit.
Working with the Gateway Commission gives Susie the opportunity to help preserve the natural and traditional river scene of the beautiful Lower Connecticut River Valley. She works collaboratively with land use staff in each of the eight Gateway Conservation Zone towns to fulfill the Gateway Commission’s mission. This includes guiding applicants through the Gateway Commission’s zoning review process, reviewing regulation changes that impact the Gateway Conservation Zone and managing the Gateway Commission’s operations.
If you have questions about the Gateway Commission or the Gateway Conservation Zone, contact Susie via email or by telephone.
Connecticut River Ferries Are Older Than America
Ferries have long been a means to cross rivers. The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, which began service in 1769, was actually used to transport supplies during the Revolutionary War.
Today the Selden III, operated by the Connecticut Department of Transportation, runs between the two towns providing a scenic, relaxing crossing for cars, bicyclists and pedestrians. Enjoy superb views on board of Gillette’s Castle on board the ferry, especially heading east.