Main Street Noank Road Reconstruction

Public Input

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  Proposed Main Street Road Reconstruction Project in Noank Village

  by Noank Village Main Street Proposal 2026, 4 months ago

  I was a property owner and resident of Main Street in Noank for many years and return to the village on a regular basis to visit friends and family. As such, I wish to express my thoughts on the potential Main Street Road Reconstruction Project.

  The physical characteristics, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and associations with Noank's Main Street are among the elements that earned the village of Noank its place on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The district must retain integrity to convey its historical significance and reflect its value and contribution to national and international history... Continue reading

  I was a property owner and resident of Main Street in Noank for many years and return to the village on a regular basis to visit friends and family. As such, I wish to express my thoughts on the potential Main Street Road Reconstruction Project.

  The physical characteristics, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and associations with Noank's Main Street are among the elements that earned the village of Noank its place on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The district must retain integrity to convey its historical significance and reflect its value and contribution to national and international history. If any intervention on Main Street were to be considered, efforts of protection and preservation of this feeling and the associations that maintain the historical significance of the village, rather than modernization, are required. Infrastructure maintenance, then, should be extremely subtle.

  I for one encourage the Groton Town Council to abandon multimillion-dollar modernization plans for Noank and its Main Street. Furthermore, it is difficult to ascertain whether Wright-Pierce has experience in preservation to the ideals of the NRHP and the required sensitivity to the historic elements present in the village, or whether it is primarily an engineering firm geared towards modernization. I fear the latter.

  Sincerely yours,

  R. Andrieux

  Vannes, Brittany, France

  Former home owner on Noank's Main Street

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  
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  Noank Main Street Reconstruction

  by Dave Blacker, about 1 year ago

  As of these evenings, many citizens, residents, business owners, and other interested parties are feeling confused about many of the unknown aspects concerning and related to the proposed redevelopment of the center of Noank. Much of the concern stems from the unknown, and it would be helpful if all parties could communicate more easily and regularly. As the lead party involved in initiating this project seems to be the Dept of Public Works, we have been willingly and appreciatively provided with a great deal of information by that department, and their representatives and employees. All of our inquires and requests... Continue reading

  As of these evenings, many citizens, residents, business owners, and other interested parties are feeling confused about many of the unknown aspects concerning and related to the proposed redevelopment of the center of Noank. Much of the concern stems from the unknown, and it would be helpful if all parties could communicate more easily and regularly. As the lead party involved in initiating this project seems to be the Dept of Public Works, we have been willingly and appreciatively provided with a great deal of information by that department, and their representatives and employees. All of our inquires and requests for related information have been courteously answered and presented. The information provided to date has been helpful and has brought to mind many questions by residents, that the answers to, would be helpful in better understanding the project and processes involved.

  It is a well understood and tolerated, that Noank is a very unique, if not quirky, place to live, work in and with, maneuver around, and govern and maintain. It’s a place that successfully coexists within the Town of Groton, and it is very use to and experienced with helping to solve problems, in association with the Town, and providing for the needs of its own residents, business’ and tourists. Noank residents are, at most times, tolerant, though skeptical of change, and have a deep appreciation and respect for its past and are very adept at and experienced with solving problems effecting it. When it became apparent in the mid 1800’s that Village residents would benefit, long term, from a convenient, safe, easily accessible and respectful solution to burial problems by consolidating the many and often times, unknown and or forgotten burial spots scattered about, within its midst, residents formed the Noank Valley Cemetery Association, that has, to this day, quietly, beautifully, respectfully and frugally managed to fulfill an important need for residents living in Noank, over the past 175 years, acknowledging its occupants existence, and providing for its residents needs and, their descendants as well. When residents needed fire protection in the latter part of the 1800’s, they solved the problem by establishing, funding and supporting the Noank Fire District. They took on the cost and task of building, equipping, maintaining and providing educated personnel to and for the original firehouse and its replacement, the current firehouse. When its residents needed a safe and reliable water source, it sought permission and established, funded, built and maintained the Noank Water Co. and oversaw the systems’ design, layout, and its installation, and provided and funded round the clock personnel to operate and maintain it, for the past 63 years. The district, in cooperation with the Town, oversaw the building and care of the Park on Main Street, in the early 1950’s , and maintains it to this day. When Noank needed emergency response services and vehicles, it funded and incorporated that service into the Fire Dept along with providing and educating personal, available around the clock. It has established, funded, and maintained parks and open spaces here, as well as public access to the water, and the rest of the world on those waters, and it gladly shares many scenic views and vistas with anyone who cares to look. When trash disposal in the Town and the District became a problem, Noank solved its problem with a one collector, unified pick up system that has worked remarkably well for the district and this part of town. These are just a few examples of this communities’ cooperation with the town and the benefits enjoyed by both, and the general public, and we’re hoping that the same can be enjoyed again. As daunting, complicated and technical as these tasks may have appeared when they were proposed, we continue today to enjoy their benefits.

  So, with regards to the project at hand and the towns request for input, we need try to continue respectfully working towards solutions to certain real or perceived problems with the comfortable and safe use of, and maintenance and protection of many of the aspects that contribute to the fragile balance everyone is working hard to achieve, and an outcome that is tolerable to all.

  It might be helpful to first identify subjects that a majority of those that are interested will agree on, and thereafter we can negotiate, “tolerable to most people,” solutions, for the remaining aspects of the proposals. Just a thought.

  As for my project hopes, I am in favor of the road resurfacing and drainage improvements, the existing sidewalk problem mitigations and rebuilding, the installation of period appropriate granite curbing to match/enhance existing granite, and the replacement of bituminous and or concrete curbing with granite throughout the project area. I also would rate underground utilities placement as a very high priority.

  Thank you for your consideration.

  Dave Blacker
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  Main Street Noank

  by Michael Dwyer, about 1 year ago

  I have known Noank since being stationed in New London in the Navy Submarine service 1978. I have lived on Noble Ave in the late 1980s and now am a full time resident home owner on Main Street (#62) with my wife Pat since 2016. I agree with much of Andrew Blacker’s concerns about keeping the character of the village as a paramount goal. Underground utilities are a smart investment.

  A big part of what has kept Noank special is that it is relatively unknown and has been bypassed over the years by the hordes of tourists riding the 95... Continue reading

  I have known Noank since being stationed in New London in the Navy Submarine service 1978. I have lived on Noble Ave in the late 1980s and now am a full time resident home owner on Main Street (#62) with my wife Pat since 2016. I agree with much of Andrew Blacker’s concerns about keeping the character of the village as a paramount goal. Underground utilities are a smart investment.

  A big part of what has kept Noank special is that it is relatively unknown and has been bypassed over the years by the hordes of tourists riding the 95 corridor to Mystic, Newport, Cape Cod and Maine etc. I realize that the existing businesses here need customers to thrive but, there needs to be a happy medium. No one wants what has happened to Mystic in recent years to occur in Noank. It doesn’t take much to overload this village with cars looking for places to park and crowds walking up and down taking pictures. It’s a real worry. Adding additional side walks and bathrooms will make Noank another Mystic. A mess of traffic backed up along Main Street from the village dock to the Mystic-Noank road. Additional side walks in front of homes with no drive way only encourages people to “camp out” here. Side walks in front of private homes serve no purpose. Same for permanent toilets. Refurbish/ improve existing storm drains and existing sidewalks; transfer pole mounted utilities to underground where it makes sense, but don’t add unnecessary walkways in front of peoples homes. I’m sure many home owners along Main Street will agree with me. Being able to stand out on Main Street and talk to your neighbors is a precious quality of this village. Stop injecting unnecessary “improvements” into the village. Noank needs to remain a village and not become an overcrowded town.
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  Main Street

  by Silver Fox, almost 2 years ago
  I lived at 19 Main Street from 1963-1973 when I purchased a home in the 'North End' at 251 Elm Street. Prior to that I spent 10 Summers in Noank Village. Main and Pearl streets (except for the speed bumps and stop signs) (which are largely ignored.) have survived quite nicely in their present form. One gentleman complained that getting to his home on Potter Court was often difficult because of parking on Pearl. The 'Noank way' when turning from Main on to Pearl is (was) courtesy and common sense: pull over and let the car(s) heading north pass and... Continue reading

  I lived at 19 Main Street from 1963-1973 when I purchased a home in the 'North End' at 251 Elm Street. Prior to that I spent 10 Summers in Noank Village. Main and Pearl streets (except for the speed bumps and stop signs) (which are largely ignored.) have survived quite nicely in their present form. One gentleman complained that getting to his home on Potter Court was often difficult because of parking on Pearl. The 'Noank way' when turning from Main on to Pearl is (was) courtesy and common sense: pull over and let the car(s) heading north pass and then proceed. The presentation on 7/25/24 had me wondering if that was an updated proposal for Olde Mystic Village or Main Street, Disney World. Hallmark filmed a movie here not for what Main Street could be, rather what it is. I agree with Andrew Blacker that underground electric would be an attractive addition. (but at what cost)? Beyond that: correcting storm drain issues; ADA sidewalk curb cuts; repair of existing south sidewalk. Installation of 3 way stop signs at Main/Pearl would (possibly) slow down those who think Main is Route 215. The rest of the proposals are superfluous. There was one very nice suggestion that a tree be planted in memory of Zell Steever. Perhaps NBC could make room?

  
  

  Ed Stebbins

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  17 Main St

  by Noank Homeowner , almost 2 years ago

  Please include the following questions and respective answers in the public meeting:

  
  1. Is there a taking of property in order to accommodate the plan for sidewalks, trees and parking?
  2. Who maintains the landscaping and sidewalk if these improvements are considered part of owners property boundaries?

  3. Will there be a lighting study and a traffic impact study done and shared with the community? These are two major impacts to quality of life quiet enjoyment and property values as we will become more of a commercial zone for tourism?

  4. Will a proposed construction timeline be shared, and when,... Continue reading

  Please include the following questions and respective answers in the public meeting:

  
  1. Is there a taking of property in order to accommodate the plan for sidewalks, trees and parking?
  2. Who maintains the landscaping and sidewalk if these improvements are considered part of owners property boundaries?

  3. Will there be a lighting study and a traffic impact study done and shared with the community? These are two major impacts to quality of life quiet enjoyment and property values as we will become more of a commercial zone for tourism?

  4. Will a proposed construction timeline be shared, and when, on the impact it will have on access to our homes and quiet enjoyment of owners?

  5. Are there additional resources being allocated to police and fire to be able to quickly respond to noise and disruption as major parking changes are proposed for a quiet residential area?

  6. What is the tax impact to owners as all these proposals require additional resources to maintain, repair, replace and protect?

  
  Thank you

  Deb

  
  

  
  
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  Noank Main Street Repaving

  by Michael Dwyer, almost 2 years ago
  Michael Dwyer’s comments :

  
  

  -No new sidewalks . only repair existing sidewalks and curbs

  - do replace/upgrade existing storm drains

  - no welcoming sign

  - no covering existing lawns directly bordering Main Street with black top

  - Noank is a fishing village not tourist attraction and needs to be kept that way

  
  

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  Michael Dwyer’s comments :

  
  

  -No new sidewalks . only repair existing sidewalks and curbs

  - do replace/upgrade existing storm drains

  - no welcoming sign

  - no covering existing lawns directly bordering Main Street with black top

  - Noank is a fishing village not tourist attraction and needs to be kept that way

  
  

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  Good Comments!

  by John W, almost 2 years ago

  I agree with the comments and recommendations posted by Andrew Blacker and others, with the possible exception of posting a “Historic Attraction” sign for Noank on I-95.
  I also appreciate the positive support this project appears to be earning. Well done, looking forward to future updates and meetings.
  
  John Watson, Elm Street, Noank

  Resident of Noank and West Mystic since the 1970’s

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  I agree with the comments and recommendations posted by Andrew Blacker and others, with the possible exception of posting a “Historic Attraction” sign for Noank on I-95.
  I also appreciate the positive support this project appears to be earning. Well done, looking forward to future updates and meetings.
  
  John Watson, Elm Street, Noank

  Resident of Noank and West Mystic since the 1970’s

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  
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  Be restrained, practical, and bury the power lines.

  by Elisabeth Pendery, over 2 years ago

  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... Continue reading

  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

  
  
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  Noank Main Street Project the Present/Future/Past

  by Rose Powell, over 2 years ago
  

  For the Present: I would like to thank Andrew Blacker for his public comments he submitted on 4 January 2024. I concur with his wish-list outlined in the comments and think he makes some salient points about hurricanes and the need to consider the power lines, and be thoughtful about parking. Presently the parking along upper Pearl can be a driving and walking hazard. Off Street residential parking should be considered for public safety. There are areas that I don't believe can accommodate two way traffic, which would impair emergency vehicles.

  For the Future: I hope the Town of Groton... Continue reading

  For the Present: I would like to thank Andrew Blacker for his public comments he submitted on 4 January 2024. I concur with his wish-list outlined in the comments and think he makes some salient points about hurricanes and the need to consider the power lines, and be thoughtful about parking. Presently the parking along upper Pearl can be a driving and walking hazard. Off Street residential parking should be considered for public safety. There are areas that I don't believe can accommodate two way traffic, which would impair emergency vehicles.

  For the Future: I hope the Town of Groton will also take this opportunity to look at predictions available by NOAA on sea level rise https://coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slr.html, which would affect how the end of Main Street, near the town dock, is addressed. Let's be wise with this investment and be prepared for warmer and wetter winters, high tide flooding, and potential loss of land. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/high-tide-flooding.html Because of rising seas, land subsidence, and the loss of natural barriers, high tide flooding is now twice as frequent in U.S. coastal communities as it was 20 years ago. Predictions from the latest interagency Sea Level Rise Technical Report show that high tide flooding will become more common and more severe over the coming decades. As sea levels continue to rise, conditions that cause minor and moderate high tide flooding today will cause moderate and major high tide flooding by 2050.

  For the Past: I would also agree with Andrew that keeping an eye to the past is equally important, and the history of this small village should be preserved. For example, the beautiful stone curbs should not be covered with ugly black asphalt (as was recently done on Church Street, although overall I have been impressed with the recent road repaving in other areas of Noank).

  I am taking this opportunity within the public comment forum to advocated for a nice sign similar to those seen entering the historical sections of Mystic, for the village of Noank. If this is something that the town would embrace as a concept (even if funded outside of the town budget), that would be a nice touch to this lovely village.

  Thank you,

  Rose Powell (Pearl Street Noank)

  (Basic Concept design by Cam Bortz)
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  Burying power lines

  by Anne Lawrie, over 2 years ago

  I would like support Andrew Blacker's well-argued comments. I'd especially underline the need for burying utility lines- this is our chance! Besides the important points of increased safety, reduced risks of outages in storms and easier maintenance, underground lines would have a significant aesthetic impact. A Main Street without utility poles would be so much more attractive, and in line with the historic reality and feel of Noank.

  
  

  I would like support Andrew Blacker's well-argued comments. I'd especially underline the need for burying utility lines- this is our chance! Besides the important points of increased safety, reduced risks of outages in storms and easier maintenance, underground lines would have a significant aesthetic impact. A Main Street without utility poles would be so much more attractive, and in line with the historic reality and feel of Noank.