To: Reuben F. Bradford, DESPP Commissioner, Daniel Esty, DEEP Commissioner, and Governor Ned Lamont

Stop the Firearms Facility Relocation to Meshomasic State Forest

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Stop the relocation of the Connecticut State Police Firearms Training Facility to the Meshomasic State Forest in Glastonbury, CT

Why is this important?

Concerned citizens oppose the proposal by DESPP to utilize 30 acres of State Forest in Glastonbury, CT to construct 55,000 sq ft Firearms Training Facility with multiple firing ranges and 125 parking spaces. The following are some conservation and public safety concerns:
• The proposal will impinge on the Meshomasic State Forest and the Shenipsit Trail, a cherished 41 mile Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail managed by the CT Forest & Park Association (CFPA) and used by the public for hiking, running, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• The area is full of wildlife including the eastern timber rattlesnake, an endangered species under General Statutes § 26-306 and § 26-306-4 of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies.
• The existing town gun range has limited hours and only small firearms are permitted, whereas, the scope of this project is very broad and involves multiple new large open shotgun and rifle ranges.
• An increase in the amount of traffic for this statewide facility is a safety concern for the area's winding roads that are utilized by many bike enthusiasts and runners.
• Noise pollution and traffic will disrupt this quiet residential area filled with young children and used by many for peaceful outdoor enjoyment.