What Can I Do?
Realtors
Representing Clients in the Zone
When people consider buying a new home or property, they often turn to realtors. As knowledgeable professionals, brokers and agents can offer information on towns’ schools, taxes, recreation opportunities, all the factors that lead to a decision to move into a community.
If the “right” home isn’t available, realtors can offer great advice on changes people might make to achieve their dream home, and even suggest local professionals for the work.
Another helpful notification is to inform buyers that their property is within the Zone. The eight lower river valley towns have standards for Zone properties with certain restrictions and obligations in place to protect the natural riverway view.
In exchange, homeowners can know that the natural beauty of the area – just that which attracted them to the town – will be preserved in their neighborhood and also across the river on its opposite shore and hillsides.
A great tip realtors can offer clients is to suggest that they first contact town land use officials or reach out to Connecticut River Gateway Commission staff to learn about the specific residential building standards that protect the Zone. The Gateway Commission is happy to offer practical advice to those seeking their dream home.
100s of Years Quarrying Granite in the Lower Connecticut River Valley
With help from the Connecticut River Gateway Commission, the Middlesex Land Trust preserved a quarry in Haddam Neck. The Brainerd Quarry Preserve offers ridgeline paths with breathtaking views of the Connecticut River and Haddam Meadows State Park. In the 18th century, granite blocks were split from outcroppings and sent down the steep hillside to be shipped via the river to New York, Philadelphia, and even New Orleans for construction.