March 7, 2014

Carpino, Ziobron Work to Protect Airline Trail Land in Portland

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HARTFORD-Today, State Reps. Christie Carpino (R-32) & Melissa Ziobron (R-34) both submitted testimony to the legislature’s Environment committee on a proposal to preserve the Portland section of the Air Line Trail.

The bill, HB-5415, received a public hearing on March 7th. The proposal would require the state of Connecticut to protect and maintain the Portland portion of the Air Line State Park Trail land from possible development.

Currently, the town of Portland is working on a license agreement with Northeast Utilities which will grant permission for the public to use specific sections of the historic rail bed in Portland for recreation.

For many in Portland and throughout the State of Connecticut, the trail is an important part of our history. The Airline Trail permits many area residents enjoy the outdoors.

Both Carpino and Ziobron did mention in testimony that while they support the bill, they object strongly to the term eminent domain in the proposed bill language and urged the committee to strike eminent domain out of the bill in order to protect private property.

Ziobron said, “The Airline Trail State Park is an important asset in Eastern Connecticut. It is unique as it spans over 40 miles of an old railroad bed through many towns. It is a linear park where thousands of people bike, walk, run, and even horseback ride thru changing scenery. In the winter it is also used by cross country skiers and everyday it is used by dog owners and fitness enthusiasts. I am very supportive of the efforts to recognize this importance in statute. I know how unique and special this trail is, as I use the trail frequently—sometimes as much as three times a week.”

“Trails are a tourism driver which in turn is an economic jolt for our communities by bringing in visitors who buy goods such as snowmobiles, mountain bicycles, equestrian equipment, and hiking boots. Additionally, a surge in visitors brings dollars that are in turn spent on local restaurants, accommodations, retail purchases, and day trips. The economic potential behind the trail is tremendous, not only for Portland but for Connecticut,” said Rep. Carpino.

“It is my hope that we can come together to pass this legislation which both protects the natural beauty of our state’s dwindling rural areas and advances our economy,” said Rep. Carpino.