Be restrained, practical, and bury the power lines.

Below is a summary of our key points and recommendations for the Groton Department of Public Works to consider in the design and rebuilding process of Main Street:

Preservation of Historic Appearance:

> Make retaining the historic look of Noank the top priority in the design and rebuilding of Main Street.

Underground Electric Lines:

> Give strong consideration to burying electric lines has has been done in other well-preserved historic areas of Groton. This is money well-spent as we face more extreme, destructive weather. (In this regard, and several others, we concur with Andrew Blacker's well-reasoned suggestions.)

Storm Sewers and Drains:

> Address storm sewers, particularly the one at the bottom of Main Street to prevent regular clogging and that are environmentally compliant.

Curb Replacement:

> Replace curbs in the commercial areas of Noank with traditional granite curbs, reusing existing ones where possible.

Sidewalk Design:

> Avoid sidewalk bump-outs, as they are unnecessary for a village of this size and are unattractive.

New Sidewalk for Safety:

> Install a new sidewalk from the top of the hill down to the dock to address safety concerns and accommodate pedestrians.

> Consider bike racks at the Town Dock and near the Noank business district.

> Involve the neighbors in addressing challenging siting issues, especially concerning the new sidewalk.

Lighting:

> Implement enhanced lighting in a restrained, simple, elegant, period-appropriate manner; nothing elaborate or fancy. (Not cutesy.)

> Avoid glaring bulbs, similar to those installed near the town dock a few years ago.

Street Markings:

> Use minimal, or no, painted lines on the street to maintain a more traditional appearance.

Signage:

> Use minimal signage; only include essential signs.

> Avoid large signs that may detract from the historic character of the village.

> Replace signage as needed, ensuring it complements the historic aesthetic of the village. Avoid “public art”.

Tree Planting:

> Plant native and large trees along Main Street, reminiscent of the historic elm trees that once shaded the street. Protect the great chestnut tree near the corner of Pearl and Main Streets.

Additional Parking:

> Address the need for additional parking at the town dock at the end of Main Street.

Parking Spaces:

> Make every effort not to reduce the number of existing parking spaces on

Main Street in consideration of the increasing number of visitors to the village.

Thank you for your outreach to the community on this important matter. By considering these recommendations, the Public Works Department can contribute to the enhancement and functionality of Main Street while preserving the unique character and historic charm of the Noank village.

Elisabeth and Steve Pendery

One example, of many, street light to consider:

https://www.budgetmailboxes.com/traditional-municipal-quality-street-light-package?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA8NKtBhBtEiwAq5aX2B6NvSfQxfLRkzprlL-eHwELJVqWMf0NA8EuELNEZL_EV-AhwdMccRoC4yYQAvD_BwE