Many New Fairfield residents who live near Squantz Pond State Park have been frustrated with traffic and parking issues already this summer. First Selectman Pat Del Monaco says she's been in contact with State Police, the Park Ranger and others to address these issues. DEEP has been focused on improving traffic flow and enforcement surrounding the park, and has initiated changes to alleviate what are often dangerous conditions.
Things came to a head on Sunday when traffic and parking on Route 39, Shortwoods Road and Beaver Bog Road were deemed unacceptable by town officials. State Police responded with additional support on the 4th of July, and conditions improved. Del Monaco says she did get reports then of cars parked further north, and that will be addressed going forward.
In addition to increased enforcement of illegally parked cars, Del Monaco says several other changes have been implemented. Effective this year, non-resident parking at the Town Beach has been restricted to 10-percent of available parking spaces, and the fee for non-residents to park is $60. Parking is monitored by attendants.
Once Squantz is full, traffic is not allowed to stop in front of the park, either on Shortwoods Road or Route 39. In cooperation with New York State DOT, DEEP has increased the number of signs at the southern end of Interstate-684 indicating that Squantz Pond has reached capacity, redirecting visitors to other parks.
