Ansonia OKs rock-crushing operation over neighborhood objections

ANSONIA — The city’s Planning and Zoning Commission removed any doubt about whether Burns Construction was allowed to run a rock-crushing operation on its Riverside Drive property, approving a zoning amendment for rock crushing during its Sept. 27 meeting.

But the amendment also comes with numerous concessions to residents that include restrictions on the activity. Residents have stated that the operation has lowered their quality of life, with complaints including loud noise and dust from the site.

Opponents have consistently claimed that the amendment contradicts previous statements made by city officials and the company that rock crushing was previously allowed.

During discussion of the amendment, some commission members suggested issuing Burns a special permit rather than passing an amendment.

“I think this should be handled by special permit, similar to how we’re handling the hotels, etc going forward,” said Jared Heon. It gives a little bit more control. It also allows you to look at the parcels specifically before granting any approval and also gives us the opportunity for a little bit more of a concentrated hearing or application process.”

Restrictions on rock crushing inclide limiting the time of such work to between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and prohibiting rock crushing on weekends and holidays. Additionally the company is prohibited from crushing rocks within 200 feet of residences.

Leonard Marazzi, whose home is near the Burns property, said the zoning decision would put an end to his fight against the company.

“If they vote to change it, it’s a done deal, we have no case unless we get a different administration,” Marazzi said on Sept. 22.

But the commissioners said residents still have a say in the operation of the facility. Although the conditions of the amendment require the company to regularly check noise levels, residents also have that right.

“If neighbors were upset, would they be able to hire an independent noise measurer,” Maureen McCormack said.

Brian Pounds / Hearst Connecticut Media file photo Gravel and top soil are separated at the new Burns Construction property at 16 Riverside Drive in Ansonia in 2019.