On Wednesday night, May 17, the prospect of a new baseball field in Ridgefield received a Public Hearing.
Located on a now vacant lot off Route 7 at the Simpaug Turnpike, plans for the new field include LED lights, announcer's booth, concessions stand, a storage room and have plenty of parking.
Ridgefield Planning and Zoning listened to a presentation from Ridgefield Little League (RLL) President, Steve Scalzo along with architect Philip Doyle and attorney Bob Jewell. Experts on traffic, lighting and the environment also presented reports to the P&Z.
Scalzo shared his passion for Ridgefield baseball and the positive impact the new field would have on young athletes. “He talked about how this field would be a terrific addition to the community and offer a better experience to players while giving teams more flexibility on game times and schedules,” says Tom Rotunno.
Also speaking on behalf of RLL was former RLL President and current coach Joe Walsh, who has been part of Ridgefield Little League for more than thirty years. “He offered his perspective on why a new, lighted field made sense for Ridgefield,” says Rotunno.
Opposition for field came from the Town of Redding and several Redding and Ridgefield residents. “Their equivalent P&Z board has documented their disagreement with the plan, as have residents on Simpaug, Ashbee and other neighboring streets in Ridgefield,” explains Rotunno.
Neighbors raised concerns regarding the impact on traffic, noise and lighting. Rotunno explains, “The neighbors immediately alongside the property have hired an attorney, who made points on the ownership and rights to use the site.”
We had a number of past and current RLL members in attendance on Tuesday night to show support for the field.
There is a continuation of the meeting on June 6th at the Town Hall Annex to allow for additional public opinion and comments.