On the agenda: Granby meeting — Data Center (Jun 23)

Town of Granby
Plan of Conservation and Development
2026-2036

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Cover Page Photo Credits (left to right, top to bottom):
Austin White; Austin White; Todd DeWald; Don Shaw, Jr.; Tom Fuller; Don Shaw, Jr.; Rick
Orluk; Don Shaw, Jr.; Zach Orluk; Todd DeWald; Tom Fuller; Todd DeWald; Don Shaw, Jr.; Don
Shaw, Jr.; Rick Orluk; Todd DeWald; Town of Granby; Christine Chinni; Steve Perry; and Town
of Granby.
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Acknowledgements
The Town of Granby Plan of Conservation and Development was prepared by the Plan of
Conservation and Development Committee with the input of various boards and commission
members, residents, business owners, town staff, and other stakeholders. The Town of Granby
would like to thank those who participated in the process and for providing thoughtful feedback
and comments. These contributions helped guide and shape this Plan.
Plan of Conservation Development Committee Members
Christine Chinni, Co-Chair
Mark Lockwood, Co-Chair
Margaret Chapple
Jean Donihee-Perron
Mark Kennedy
Ken Kuhl
Ken Rohde
Bill Ross
Brennan Sheahan
James Szipszky
Ellen Whitlow
Planning and Zoning Commission Members
Mark Lockwood, Chair
Christine Chinni
Robert Lavitt
Eric Lukingbeal
Steven Muller
Eric Myers
Brennan Sheahan
Meg Jabaily, Alternate
Paula Johnson, Alternate
Town Staff
Renee Deltenre, Land Use Coordinator
Abigail Kenyon, Director of Community Development

Adopted:
Effective:
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Executive Summary

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Table of Contents
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Background ............................................................................................................................... 10
Plan Process .............................................................................................................................. 10
How to Use this Plan..................................................................................................................11
Granby Today ................................................................................................................................ 12
Introduction and Community Values ........................................................................................ 13
Demographics ........................................................................................................................... 15
Population ............................................................................................................................. 15
Age ........................................................................................................................................ 15
School Enrollment ................................................................................................................ 16
Race and Ethnicity ................................................................................................................ 18
Education and Income........................................................................................................... 18
Housing ..................................................................................................................................... 18
Housing Costs and Affordability .......................................................................................... 20
Economics ................................................................................................................................. 21
Unemployment ...................................................................................................................... 21
Employment .......................................................................................................................... 21
Municipal Fiscal Health ........................................................................................................ 21
Land Use and Zoning Classifications ....................................................................................... 22
Zoning Classification ............................................................................................................ 22
Residential............................................................................................................................. 24
Commercial and Industrial Development ............................................................................. 24
Granby Center ....................................................................................................................... 25
Historic Resources and Overlay Zone .................................................................................. 27
Natural Resources and the Environment................................................................................... 30
Sustainability and Climate Resiliency .................................................................................. 33
Open Space ............................................................................................................................... 34
Agriculture ................................................................................................................................ 37
Community Facilities and Services .......................................................................................... 39
Town Facilities ...................................................................................................................... 39
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Public Schools....................................................................................................................... 41
Emergency Services .............................................................................................................. 42
Parks and Recreation Facilities ............................................................................................. 43
Transportation and Utility Infrastructure .................................................................................. 46
Road Network ....................................................................................................................... 46
Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities .......................................................................................... 49
Public Transportation ............................................................................................................ 51
Sewer System ........................................................................................................................ 52
Water ..................................................................................................................................... 54
Gas ........................................................................................................................................ 56
Electrical ............................................................................................................................... 56
Communication ..................................................................................................................... 56
Granby Tomorrow ......................................................................................................................... 57
Vision Statement ....................................................................................................................... 58
Achieving the Vision ................................................................................................................. 59
Natural Resources and Environment ........................................................................................ 59
Goal 1.1: Protect our water resources, including groundwater, wetlands, watercourses and
watersheds. ............................................................................................................................ 59
Goal 1.2: Preserve, manage, and maintain our forest land and native vegetation. ............... 60
Goal 1.3: Balance development with the preservation and protection of natural resources. 60
Goal 1.4: Promote education and pursue sustainability initiatives to reduce environmental
impacts .................................................................................................................................. 61
Open Space and Recreation ...................................................................................................... 61
Goal 2.1: Preserve future open space areas to maintain the character of Granby. ................ 61
Goal 2.2: Promote, encourage, and provide for a wide variety of outdoor recreational
activities. ............................................................................................................................... 63
Agriculture ................................................................................................................................ 64
Goal 3.1: Encourage the preservation of new and existing farmlands, existing farm
operations, agricultural soils, and farm architecture. ............................................................ 64
Goal 3.2: Promote sustainable farming practices and methods. ........................................... 65
Goal 3.3: Utilize Town property where appropriate for agricultural activities. .................... 65
Transportation ........................................................................................................................... 66
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Goal 4.1: Support and encourage modes of transportation other than the motor vehicle. .... 66
Goal 4.2: Provide for the safety of residents through proper street maintenance and design
of roadways and intersections. .............................................................................................. 67
Goal 4.3: Encourage a connected transportation network. ................................................... 68
Commercial and Industrial Development ................................................................................. 69
Goal 5.1: Provide opportunities for new commercial and industrial development to broaden
the tax base, increase employment opportunities, and increase the availability of local
commercial goods and services. ........................................................................................... 69
Goal 5.2: Establish and maintain standards to encourage cohesive commercial development
that is of an appropriate scale and relation to its surroundings. ............................................ 70
Housing ..................................................................................................................................... 70
Goal 6.1: Provide housing opportunities to support current and future residents. ............... 70
Goal 6.2: Encourage the upkeep and maintenance of Granby’s existing housing stock. ..... 72
Granby Center ........................................................................................................................... 72
Goal 7.1: Develop and re-develop the Center as a dynamic area that fosters connectivity and
supports a diverse mix of uses. ............................................................................................. 72
Goal 7.2: Establish and maintain standards to ensure a cohesive Center area. .................... 74
Municipal Operations and Utility Infrastructure....................................................................... 75
Goal 8.1: Maintain and enhance community facilities and services. .................................... 75
Goal 8.2: Ensure that the utility infrastructure matches the needs of the community. ......... 76
Goal 8.3: Enhance and maintain a transparent and carefully planned budgeting process. ... 76
Goal 8.4 Evaluate, modernize and maintain a user-focused Town information process to
support the timely and well-planned use of technology to benefit the Town’s management
and governance. .................................................................................................................... 77
Future Land Use Plan................................................................................................................ 78
Sanitary Sewer System Plan ..................................................................................................... 79
Consistency with State and Regional Plans .................................................................................. 82
State of Connecticut Growth Management Principles .............................................................. 83
Principle 1: Redevelop and revitalize commercial centers and areas of mixed-land uses with
existing or planned physical infrastructure. .......................................................................... 83
Principle 2: Expand housing opportunities and design choices to accommodate a variety of
household types and needs. ................................................................................................... 83

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Principle 3: Concentrate development around transportation nodes and along major
transportation corridors to support the viability of transportation options and land reuse. .. 83
Principle 4: Conserve and restore the natural environment, cultural and historical resources
and existing farmlands. ......................................................................................................... 83
Principle 5: Protect environmental assets critical to public health and safety. ..................... 83
Principle 6: Integrate planning across all levels of government to address issues on a local,
regional and state-wide basis ................................................................................................ 84
Regional Plan of Conservation and Development .................................................................... 84
Appendix: Implementation Schedule…………………………………………………………..85

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Introduction

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Background
Every ten years as required under Connecticut General Statutes Section 8-23, entitled ‘Preparation,
Amendment or Adoption of Plan of Conservation and Development’, municipalities must prepare
and adopt a Plan of Conservation and Development. According to State Statute, Plans of
Conservation and Development contain policies, goals and standards for the physical and
economic development of the municipality; are designed to promote, with the greatest efficiency
and economy, the coordinated development of the municipality and the general welfare and
prosperity of its people; and recommend the most desirable use of land within the municipality for
residential, recreational, commercial, industrial, conservation and other purposes. Such plans also
recommend the most desirable density of population, make provisions for the development of
housing opportunities and promote choice and economic diversity in housing. These Plans are
designed to provide guidance and information to all the Town’s boards, commissions, public
officials, and residents.

Plan Process
In the summer of 2025, the Planning and Zoning Commission created a subcommittee to oversee
the 2026 Plan update. The subcommittee, known as the 2026 Plan of Conservation and
Development Committee (Committee), consisted of eleven members and included representatives
of the Planning and Zoning Commission, Agricultural Commission, Board of Selectmen,
Conservation Commission, Development Commission, and four residents.
The Committee held its first meeting on September 23, 2025 and began its task by reviewing State
Statutes, studying the Town’s 1993, 2005, and 2016 Plans, and reviewing other Town Plans of
Conservation and Development. Following the review of these materials, the Committee held
lengthy discussions identifying characteristics of Granby today. This led to a basic agreement of
the attributes that make Granby special, the reasons Granby residents choose to live here, and how
to plan for the future while remaining true to what Granby values. Throughout the process the
Committee referred to the Town’s original fundamental values, which were first outlined in the
1993 Plan. These values are slightly modified and expanded in this Plan and continue to provide
the basis for the goals, strategies, and actions outlined in this Plan.
Throughout the Plan update, the Committee also
solicited public input. A public workshop was held on
November 11, 2025 and an online survey was issued
shortly thereafter. A second public workshop was held
on March 12, 2026. A dedicated email address was
created for the Committee to receive public comments
and feedback. Updates and materials were posted to
the ‘Plan of Conservation and Development 2026
Committee’ webpage on the Town website.

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This work culminated in a complete Plan that was referred to the Planning and Zoning Commission
in June 2026. The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the Plan at its meeting in July 2026
and referred it to the Board of Selectmen and Capitol Region Council of Governments. A public
hearing on adoption was held on September 2026. The Planning and Zoning Commission voted to
adopt the Plan and established an effective date of October 2026.

How to Use this Plan
The first section of this Plan ‘Granby Today’ provides an overview and background of existing
conditions and trends. It also provides an overview of what has changed since the last Plan was
adopted in 2016, highlighting the issues and opportunities today and what this means for planning
for the future. This section includes information and feedback from residents obtained through the
workshop, survey, and comment submissions throughout the Plan process.
This section is followed by ‘Granby Tomorrow’. This section begins with Granby’s vision for the
future. It is then separated into the topic areas including Natural Resources and Environment; Open
Space and Recreation; Agriculture; Housing; Transportation; Commercial and Industrial
Development; Granby Center; and concludes with Municipal Operations and Infrastructure. Each
of these sections includes goals, strategies/policies, and action items, all of which support the
vision. The goals are intended to be an overarching purpose or desired outcome that is specific to
that topic area, while the strategies/policies provide an approach or position to accomplish the
goals, and the action items are a specific task that can be completed to help implement the
strategies/policies. This section also includes a future land use plan and sanitary sewer system plan.
The plan concludes with an overview to demonstrate consistency with the State and Regional Plans
of Conservation and Development.
Contained in the appendix is an implementation schedule. This implementation schedule includes
a lead entity and priority ranking to accomplish each action item that is outlined in the Plan. It is
intended that this implementation schedule will be completed at a later date and will used to track
progress.
This Plan is intended to be referenced by various Boards and Commissions when making decisions
related to land use and municipal projects. When reviewing land development applications and
municipal projects, Town Staff and elected and appointed officials should confirm consistency of
the proposal with the Plan goals, strategies/policies, and actions. When seeking funding for
improvement projects, the Town should also reference this Plan to support those efforts. This Plan
is intended to be a living document, and can be changed and updated as needed.

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Granby Today

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Introduction and Community Values
Incorporated in 1786 from Simsbury, the Town of Granby covers 40.7 square miles on
Connecticut’s north-central border with Massachusetts. It is bordered by Hartland and
Barkhamsted to the west, Canton and Simsbury to the south, East Granby and Suffield to the east,
and the Massachusetts towns of Granville and Southwick to the north. The Town of Granby is part
of Hartford County and the Capitol Region Council of Governments.
Granby is primarily a rural residential community that prides itself on its agricultural roots and its
respect for the natural environment. Granby offers a slightly different lifestyle than many
neighboring communities, a lifestyle where the natural environment can be embraced and where
much of the land is preserved as open space. It is recognized that Granby will likely always have
limited commercial and industrial development and will never be a regional employer or regional
shopping center. However, the Town will always strive to meet the needs of current and future
residents.
Granby as a community values open space, agriculture, and a small-town, rural character. Our
community is defined by its farmland, forests, trails, wildlife, and historic preservation, where our
neighbors know and support one another and take an active role in guiding the direction of our
community. A town that offers a high quality of life, providing exceptional schools, a variety of
public services, and many outdoor recreational opportunities. We are a community that supports a
vibrant, evolving, and distinctive Town Center that fosters local businesses, offers diverse housing
opportunities, and is walkable and well connected to the surrounding community. We are proud of
our roots, and we embrace our outdoor lifestyle and special character and charm.

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While there have been changes since the adoption of the last Plan, the community strives to remain
true to these values. This section of the Plan provides an overview of the current conditions and
trends in Granby, and identifies important community issues. To provide context as to how this
information relates to other communities, Granby is compared to the Capitol Region, shown in
Figure 1 below, and the state. This section will set the stage for the second section of the Plan that
will guide the community over the next ten years.
Figure 1: Capitol Region

Source: Capitol Regional Planning of Governments

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Demographics
Granby’s population is expected to remain relatively stable, but the community
is aging and school enrollment is declining.

Population
Granby’s population grew steadily from 1960 to 2010, increasing from 4,968 people in 1960 to
11,282 people in 2010. The 2020 Census showed a population decrease of 3% to 10,903 people.
However, recent data from the Connecticut Department of Public Health, Annual Population
Estimates show Granby’s population is increasing slightly, with a total of 11,249 people. From
2000 to 2023, this is just over an 8% increase. During the same period, the Capitol Region’s
population increased by 5.6% and Connecticut’s population by just over 6%.
Figure 2: Granby Population 2000 to 2023

Source: CT Department of Public Health

Age
Population projections indicate that Granby’s population is expected to remain relatively stable,
with a slight decline to approximately 10,051 residents by 2040i. While substantial population
growth or decline can significantly affect housing demand, municipal services, infrastructure, and
other aspects of community life, this modest projected change is not anticipated to have a major
impact on the community. However, demographic trends should continue to be monitored so that
Granby can respond proactively if future conditions shift.
While Granby’s total population is expected to remain relatively stable, it is aging. Granby has the
highest share of residents aged 60 and over (29%) compared to the Capitol Region (23%) and
Connecticut (24%). The median age in Granby is 45.9 years, compared to 39.8 years in Capitol
Region and 40.9 years in Connecticut. Granby’s median age has steadily increased from 1980 to
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today. The median age in 1980 was 31.2 years; 35.6 years in 1990, 39.6 years in 2000; 44.6 years
in 2010; and 45.9 years today. An aging population will mean over the next ten years, the
community may see an increase in demand for senior services as well as a need for amenities and
housing types to better serve aging residents.
Figure 3: Population by Age

Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates

School Enrollment
As Granby’s population ages, school enrollment has been declining. In the past 20 years, the
2025-2026 school year had the fewest students enrolled, with 1,675 students. This is down from
a peak of 2,339 students in the 2007-2008 school year.

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Figure 4: School Enrollment 2006 - 2026

Source: CT State Department of Education: 2006-07 to 2024-25. Granby Public Schools 2025-26. Enrollment Projections Report, MP Planning
Group, February 2026.

As outlined in an enrollment projections report by MP Planning Group and presented to the Board
of Education on February 18, 2026, three separate models (high, medium, and low projections)
were prepared to project enrollment over the next 10 years. All three models show declining
enrollment over the next two years. Over the final 8 years, the low model shows stable enrollment
while the medium and high models show enrollment growth, with a total of 1,727 students and
1,829 respectively. According to the report, “Recent housing conditions, demographics and
enrollment in-migration align best with Medium Model and represents the most likely direction.
However, housing conditions and demographic shifts should be monitored.” As school enrollment
changes, services and facilities will have to be examined so they are responsive to these shifts.
Figure 5: School Enrollment Projections (Low, Medium and High)

Source: Granby Public Schools Enrollment Projections Report, Executive Summary, February 2026. MP Planning Group.

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Figure 6: Population by Race

Race and Ethnicity
Census data show Granby continues to be
predominately (92%) white, compared to the
Capitol Region (61%) and Connecticut (64%).
While Granby is predominately white, there have
been some changes in racial and ethnic
composition. As shown in Granby’s 2022
Housing Data Profile by the Partnership for
Strong Communities, Granby was 95% white
compared to 96% in the 2020 Profile.

Education and Income
Granby’s median household income is
$116,000. This is $27,833 higher than the
median income of the Capitol Region and
$25,810 higher than the State.

Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates

Figure 7: Median Household Income

While Granby reports a higher median
household income than the State, the educational
attainment levels for those 25 years and older are
also higher than the State. Fifty-two percent
(52%) of the Town’s population age 25 or older
holds a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to
42% of the State. When looking at advanced
degrees, 22% of Granby’s population age 25 or
older holds a master’s degree or higher,
compared to 19% of the State.
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates

Housing
Granby’s housing stock is becoming more diverse, but affordability and
housing choice remain key challenges, especially for younger households and
older adults.

Granby currently has 4,433 housing units. And as may be expected for a rural community, many
of these housing units (83%) are single-family detached housing units, compared to 57% in the
Capitol Region and 58.7% of the State. Of these units, 88% are owner-occupied, compared to 61%
in both the Capitol Region and the State. Most of Granby’s housing units (76%) have three or more
bedrooms, compared to both the Capitol Region and the State (58%).

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Figure 8: Housing Type

Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-year estimates

While Granby’s housing stock is oriented towards larger (3+ bedroom), single-family housing,
there has been more diversity in housing types in recent years. Since the adoption of the 2016 Plan,
most housing units that have been constructed have been attached, multi-family units that are
largely renter occupied. Constructed multi-family housing units include Greenway Village (34
units); The Grand Luxury Apartments and Townhouses (205 units); and Station 280 (235 units).
This is a total of 474 housing units. During this same timeframe, the following single-family
detached housing units were
constructed: Cider Mill Heights (4
units); Copper Brook Development
(32 units); and Harness Way (24
units). This is a total of 60 units. More
recently, two additional single-family
residential
subdivisions
were
approved, which consist of 18 lots
total. When factoring in additional
lots created by one-lot re-subdivision,
over the past ten years approximately
561 housing units have been either
approved or constructed, 85% of these are multi-family, attached units. The diversification in
housing units has created more housing choice that can better match the needs of current and future
residents. However, additional housing choice is needed to both address an aging population that
may no longer want, nor need, larger single-family houses and to also enable younger residents to
either remain in Granby or move here.

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Housing Costs and Affordability
When Granby’s housing stock is discussed, housing cost and affordability must also be considered.
Although Granby reports a higher median household income compared to the Region and the State,
affordability is still a concern; the median home value in Granby is $363,300 compared to
$343,200 in Connecticut. For homeowners with a mortgage, 13% are severely cost-burdened,
compared to 10% in the Capitol Region and 12% in Connecticut. This means that 13% of Granby
households with a mortgage spend more than 50% of their income on housing. For homeowners
without a mortgage, 10% are severely cost-burdened, compared to 8% in the Capitol Region and
9% in Connecticut. The overall housing market in the past several years has strongly favored those
who are selling their home. There is limited inventory in Granby and often houses have sold for
above asking price. And while new construction homes have resulted in a modest increase in the
number of housing units, these homes far exceed the median home value, with an average
appraised value of $578,504ii. While the market shows some signs of changing, it is challenging
for people interested in purchasing a more affordable or entry-level home in Granby.
For renters, the median rent is $1,327 in Granby compared to $1,431 in the State. In Granby, 17%
of renters are severely cost burdened, compared to 25% in the Capitol Region and 25% in the State.
While the data show fewer renters in Granby are severely cost-burdened compared to the region
and state, many new housing units constructed in Granby have been rental units in developments
often branded as luxury apartment developments. In many of these newer developments, the rental
rate exceeds the median rent. Therefore, in addition to monitoring the single-family housing
market, it will be important to monitor the rental market and availability of units at various price
points.
The 2025 Affordable Housing Appeals List released by the Department of Housing shows that
there are 193 affordable housing units in Granby, this means 4.34% of units are affordable. This is
an increase of 53 affordable units from the 2024 List. These units meet the state definition of
affordable, meaning they are encumbered in some way to sell or rent at an affordable level to
qualifying households. Examples are government assisted housing developments; units occupied
by tenants receiving rental assistance; units financed by the Connecticut Housing Finance
Authority (CHFA) mortgages; or housing units subject to deed restrictions, which limit prices so
household earning 80% or less of the area median income pay 30% or less of their income on
housing. The majority of the affordable housing units (132 units) in Granby receive government
assistance, this includes the Stony Hill Village and Salmon Brook Elderly Housing developments,
which total 81 units combined. It should be noted that naturally occurring affordable housing units,
or housing that sells or rents at an affordable rate, are not included in the above calculation. This
housing is not deed restricted to remain affordable nor is it reserved for qualifying households. But
when housing options are considered, such housing is important as it provides housing at a price
point that allows residents to remain in Granby or provides an opportunity for people seeking to
move here to find a house that they can afford.
When asked about housing in Granby and what if any concerns people had, the top concern noted
by survey respondents and workshop participants was the loss of open space/agriculture/forest,
followed by additional traffic, and impacts to natural resources (waterways, wetlands, wildlife
habitat). Therefore, as the community looks to the next ten years to address housing needs, it is
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important such concerns are taken into consideration so that housing development may be balanced
with the protection of the natural environment.

Economics
Granby has stable fiscal health and a strong local economy, with
unemployment below regional and state levels and a highly employed
workforce.

Unemployment
Granby’s January 2026 unemployment rate was 3.7% compared to 4.1% in the State and Capitol
Region. Over the past decade, the town’s monthly unemployment rate has generally ranged from
2.2% to 4.5%, with the exception of the COVID-19 pandemic. For several months in 2020, the
unemployment rate increased, reaching a peak of 8.9% in May 2020. Rates gradually decreased
through the latter part of 2020 and into 2021. Although unemployment levels have improved,
they have not yet returned to pre-pandemic rate of 2.8% in 2019. Continued monitoring of
employment trends is important, as changes in unemployment rates can affect among other
things, discretionary spending and, in turn, affect support for local businesses and services.

Employment
According to American Community Survey data, 6,049 Granby residents are in the labor force.
Most residents commute outside of Granby for work, with an average travel time of approximately
30 minutes. The leading industries employing Granby residents include educational services and
health care and social assistance; finance, insurance, real estate, and rental and leasing; and
professional, scientific, and management services. Among those who work in Granby—whether
residents or commuters—the major employers include MeadowBrook of Granby, Stop & Shop,
Geissler’s Supermarket, and the Town of Granby. Understanding both commuting patterns and the
location of employment centers within Granby is important for planning transportation
improvements and identifying opportunities for economic and business development.

Municipal Fiscal Health
Granby’s grand list, which is a list of all taxable properties within Town, is heavily reliant on
residential properties, which account for approximately 92% of the grand list. In recent years, the
Town has seen an increase in the total grand list, driven in part by the completion of several multifamily development projects. For example, the grand list increased from $1,378,046,350 in fiscal
year 2024 to $1,395,107,580 in 2025 and $1,410,834,820 in 2026. Over the past decade, the grand
list has grown by an average of slightly more than one percent annually (refer to Table 1). It should
also be noted that the most recent revaluation was completed for the October 1, 2022 grand list,
with the next revaluation scheduled to take effect for the October 1, 2027 grand list.

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Source: Granby Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

Projections in grand list growth for the next ten years are relatively flat at 0.8% per year,
compared to previous years. As Granby seeks to continue providing high-quality education and
services that meet the needs of residents, careful and strategic financial planning will be
essential, particularly given the significant share of the grand list represented by residential
properties and the impact of rising costs on residents.
Table 1: Total Assessed Value

Fiscal Year
2026
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016

Total Taxable Assessed Value
$1,410,834,820
$1,395,107,580
$1,378,046,350
$1,073,748,490
$1,037,144,340
$1,022,037,770
$1,004,834,820
$990,561,210
$977,286,900
$971,371,220
$965,747,650

Source: Granby Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

Land Use and Zoning Classifications
Granby is predominantly residential, with about 93% of its land zoned for
housing, reflecting its rural character, while only a small portion is zoned for
commercial and industrial uses. Granby Center serves as the community’s
primary mixed-use and commercial hub, with strong support for enhancing its
role as a walkable center for businesses, housing, and community activity.

The following section provides information on Granby’s land use and zoning classifications,
including residential, commercial and industrial development, Granby Center and the Historic
Overlay Zone. This section also includes an overview of Granby’s historic resources.

Zoning Classification
The Town of Granby is divided into twelve different zones. Each zone has a list of permitted uses,
which are uses allowed by right, and special permit uses, which require review and approval by
the Planning and Zoning Commission. While there are twelve zones, they can be grouped into two
broader use categories, residential uses and commercial and industrial uses. The Granby Center

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Zone contains both residential and commercial uses, this is explained in more detail. In later Plan
sections, there are recommendations and considerations specific to these broader use categories.
Figure 9: Town of Granby Zoning Map

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Residential
The zones that are considered residential zones, meaning the primary use of the zone is residential,
are those designated Planned Development Multifamily (PDM), Rural Conservation (R4A), Rural
Residential (R2A and R50), Residential (R30), and Center Edge (CE) (see Figure 10). These zones
account for about 24,500 acres, which is approximately 93% of Granby’s total area. Most of this
residentially zoned land, about 15,400 acres or approximately 63% of all residential land, is the
Rural Residential R2A Zone. In this zone, there is a minimum 2-acre lot size. Much of Granby’s
residentially zoned land does not have access to public utilities, therefore houses are served by
private well and septic system. These considerations are important when analyzing and planning
for areas in Town that may support opportunities for additional housing options.
Figure 10: Residential Zones Only

Commercial and Industrial Development
Approximately 1,000 acres, or 4% of Granby’s area, is zoned for commercial or industrial uses.
These zones are the Center Commons (CC), Commercial Center (COCE), Business (C2),
Economic Development (ED), Neighborhood and Commercial Transition (T1), and I (Industrial)
Zones. This commercially zoned land is primarily along Salmon Brook Street, from the
Granby/Simsbury Town Line extending to the north just past Mechanicsville Road, and includes
Granby Center. Much of this area is supported by infrastructure, including gas, sewer, and water.
There is another pocket of industrial and commercial land on Salmon Brook Street, just south of
the Connecticut/Massachusetts State Line, and a small commercial area in North Granby, which
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includes the Post Office and Cossitt Library area. These areas are not served by public utilities.
Overall, about 210 acres of this commercial and industrially zoned land are mapped wetlands (area
in red shown in Figure XX below). This leaves approximately 790 acres, or about 3% of Granby’s
total area, for commercial development. The limited commercially zoned land means that strategic
commercial development is very important.
The workshop and survey included questions about commercial development to better understand
how such development should be considered. When asked about planning for new business
development in Granby, the goods or services the business will provide was the top priority, with
just under 75% of respondents ranking that as the number one consideration, above how much tax
revenue will be generated and the number of jobs that will be created. This is an important
consideration when planning for and fostering business development in Town. Furthermore, when
asked where people would support the expansion of business zones or intensification of business
uses, there was support in all of the existing business zones, except for the North Granby Road
area around the Cossitt Library and Post Office.
Figure 11: Commercial and Industrial Zones Only

Granby Center
Granby is fortunate to have a defined center area with a traditional New England Town Green.
While the specific boundaries of the Center have changed over time, today the Center area falls
within three zones, the Commercial Center, Center Commons, and Center Edges Zones. The
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Center remains Granby’s primary commercial hub and it is uniquely positioned to be able to
support additional commercial and residential uses. Many properties within the Center area have
public utilities; there is a sidewalk network that provides pedestrian access which can be further
expanded; the Town Green is central to the area with variety of businesses including shops,
restaurants, professional offices, and personal services in close proximity; recent residential
developments have been completed which provide additional housing opportunities within
walking distance; and there is a CTTransit bus stop nearby. Recognizing the importance of the
Center area and seeking to further enhance it, the Town recently undertook a planning effort
focused on Granby Center. This culminated in the Granby Center Town Study. The objective of
the Study was to “provide a framework that supports a connected, healthy, vibrant, and resilient
Center for businesses, residents, and visitors, aligning with Granby’s POCD.” The Town hired
consultants BFJ Planning Group to lead this process, in conjunction with the Granby Center
Advisory Committee.
The Study recommendations include the creation of a new Granby Center Zone that fosters
connectivity and supports a diverse mix of uses. The proposed boundaries of this new zone are
shown in red in Figure 12 below.
Figure 12: Proposed Granby Center Zone

Source: Granby Center Town Study, BFJ Planning

Within the zone, the Study recommended changes to permitted uses and special permit uses. As
stated in the Study, the recommend changes to uses are intended “to allow a vibrant, mixed-use
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environment that offers a diverse range of services and housing options. Allowing residential uses
would increase foot traffic, enhance the sense of activity, and provide continued support for retail
businesses….The proposed uses respond to the market demand, showing support for a mix of
housing options, as well as mixed-use buildings that contain retail, restaurants, and offices.” In
addition to proposed use changes, the Study recommended changes to the area and bulk standards
in the new Granby Center Zone; parking requirements; additional sidewalks and pathways;
enhanced landscaping and streetscape improvements; changes to sign standards; and a conceptual
design plan, which showed an enlarged Town Green and enhanced connection between the Town
Green and Bank Street, pictured below.
Figure 13: Granby Center Proposed Sidewalks and Expanded Town Green

Source: Granby Center Town Study, BFJ Planning

Throughout both the Granby Center Study process and this Plan process, workshop participants
and survey respondents showed strong support for an enhanced Center area. As outlined later in
this Plan, there are recommendations that will further support a connected, mixed-use area.

Historic Resources and Overlay Zone
In addition to the aforementioned zoning classifications, the Town of Granby has one overlay
zoning district, the Granby Center Historic Overlay District shown in Figure 14. This overlay
district generally follows the boundaries of the Granby Center Historic District, which is an area
that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Most of this overlay district overlaps the
Center Edge Zone, with some overlap on the northern end with the Commercial Center and Center

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Commons Zones. Granby does not have a Local Historic District Commission however, the zoning
regulations contain criteria and development standards for the Granby Center historic district area.
Figure 14: Granby Center Historic Overlay District (district boundaries outlined in black)

Granby Center Historic District
As outlined in the National Register of Historic Places,
the Granby Center Historic District extends for about
two-thirds of a mile along Salmon Brook Street, from just
south of the driveway to Salmon Brook Park to the
intersection with East Granby Road just north of the
Town Green. The Historic District includes 3-8 East
Granby Road, 2 Park Place, and 207-265 Salmon Brook
Street. Structures in the Historic District are mainly used
for residential purposes, however the northern extent of
this Historic District includes some commercial uses, the
Granby Congregational Church, and the Visiting Nurse
Association.
Photo Credit: Bill Ross

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West Granby Historic District
In addition to the Granby Center Historic District, the National Register of Historic Places includes
the West Granby Historic District. This District is approximately three miles west of Granby Center
and extends from the intersection of Simsbury Road with Firetown Road to north where it
terminates at the intersection with Hartland Road. While most of the properties in the West Granby
Historic District front on Simsbury Road, the District includes properties on Broad Hill Road, Day
Street South, Hartland Road, and West Granby Road. Many of the buildings, which date from 1760
to 1940, within this District are residential. The Holcomb Farm, which will be discussed further in
other sections of this Plan, is located within the West Granby Historic District. While the Zoning
Regulations contain specific standards for properties within the Granby Center Historic Overlay
District, there are no similar provisions for the properties in the West Granby Historic District.
There are other historic properties and features located outside of these two districts. This includes
the Farmington Canal Trail and other properties that are listed on the National or State Register of
Historic Places (see Figure 15).
Figure 15: Map of Historic Resources

Source: CT State Historic Preservation Office, Connecticut Cultural Resources Information System (ConnCRIS)

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Workshop participants and survey respondents generally value Granby’s historic properties and
structures. There is strong support to explore the creation of a Historic District Commission and
regulations that would require approval for any visible change to a historic building from a right
of way. Respondents also identified a need to better promote or inform the community about our
historic and cultural resources. Therefore, as the community grows over the next years, efforts to
preserve and protect the past should also be pursued.

Natural Resources and the Environment
Granby’s extensive forests, waterways, wetlands, and other natural resources
are central to its rural character and quality of life, making environmental
protection, sustainability, and climate resilience top community priorities for
the future

Unlike residential and commercial and industrial uses, forest,
woodland, water, open space, and agriculture land uses do not appear
on a zoning classification map. However, the Town’s quality of life is
largely based on the quality of Granby’s natural environment and
these land uses. View an aerial map of Granby and it is apparent that
the most prominent feature is the extensive woodlands and forests.
These forests aid in managing stormwater, thereby minimizing
flooding and recharging ground water. The forests also help to reduce
wind and noise levels and purify the air by filtering dust and
pollutants. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen and also
cool the earth while providing habitat for flora and fauna. These
forests offer recreational opportunities for Granby residents and
visitors alike.

Photo Credit: John Weeks

In addition to the largely forested areas, waterbodies abound in Granby. On the following page is
a map showing these water resources. There are four watersheds within Granby, the Salmon Brook,
West Branch Salmon Brook, Farmington River – Hop
Brook to mouth, and Farmington River – headwaters to
Burlington Brook. Within these watersheds, there are
notable brooks, the most prominent being the Salmon
Brook. The Salmon Brook has three segments, the West
Branch, East Branch, and the main stem. The West Branch
extends from its headwaters in Hartland to its confluence
with the East Branch while the East Branch Salmon Brook
extends from its headwaters in Granville to its confluence
with the West Branch. The main stem flows to the
Photo Credit: Austin White

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Farmington River. The Salmon Brook, along with Granby’s other water bodies, helps support
many different species.
Figure 16: Water Resources

As shown in Figure 17 on the following page, many of the mapped critical habitat areas and Natural
Diversity Database (NDDB) mapped areas fall around these waterbodies. The NDDB is
maintained by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and shows
approximate locations of endangered, threatened, and special concerns species and important
natural communities in Connecticut. Also located around these waterbodies are mapped wetlands.
Wetlands include swamps, vernal pools, and floodplains, and are classified by soil type. Wetlands
are very important, providing critical habitat for diverse species and they also act as natural filters,
helping maintain water quality. Due to their importance, activities within wetlands and
watercourses, and areas within 100-feet of wetlands or areas within 200-feet of watercourses, are
all regulated by the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission to ensure there will not be
negative impacts, or such impacts will be mitigated.
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Figure 17: Wetlands, Watercourses, NDDB and Critical Habitat Areas

Natural resources are one of the foundational qualities of Granby and one of the defining
characteristics of the Town, as evidenced by the workshop feedback and survey responses. In fact,
protection of natural resources and farmland was identified as the number one item that Granby
should focus more on (refer to Figure 18 on the following page).
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Figure 18: Survey and Workshop Responses

Sustainability and Climate Resiliency
In 2023, led by the Conservation Commission, Granby pursued and obtained Sustainable CT
Bronze Certification. Through this process, Granby had focused actions regarding clean
transportation, diverse housing, vibrant arts and culture, and inclusive community building. It was
also demonstrated that Granby had completed actions to make the town more walkable, promote
the agricultural economy, and support the local economy. Since then, the Town has continued
sustainability efforts, including an energy audit of some town facilities. Over the next ten years,
there is community support for additional sustainability initiatives, including waste reduction and
recycling programs (electronic disposal, textile recycling, hazardous material collection, and
composting programs), renewal energies such as solar and geothermal, and a focus on reduced
carbon emissions, including through energy conservation and an examination of the town vehicle
fleet.
While the Town has undertaken sustainability initiative since adoption of the 2016 Plan, it has also
actively participated in climate resiliency and hazard mitigation planning. As part of the Capitol
Region Council of Governments, Granby’s annex of the Regional Natural Hazard Mitigation and
Climate Adaptation Plan includes actions for the Town to work towards over the next few years.
This plan identifies natural hazards likely to impact the region, assesses vulnerabilities to these
hazards, and outlines mitigations strategies to improve the ability to respond to disasters and reduce
losses. Some of the suggested projects include stream bank stabilization, upgrade and replacement
of emergency generators at town facilities, and forestry/timber management to reduce wildfire risk.
As the community plans for the next ten years, climate resiliency and sustainability initiatives
should serve as key considerations in the development of future projects.

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Open Space
Granby has a strong commitment to open space preservation, with more than
9,100 acres—or 35% of the town—permanently protected, helping to conserve
forests, wildlife habitat, agricultural land, and recreational opportunities.

Given the value placed on natural resources and the environment, it is unsurprising open space
acquisition and preservation have been prioritized. As a result of these efforts, Granby has an
abundance of open space, with over 9,100 acres of permanently preserved open space. This is 35%
of the total area. Many of these areas have been preserved through the generous donations of
people who cherish the Town and wanted to preserve parts of it for the enjoyment of future
generations, for wildlife protection, and for a variety of environmental purposes. The open space
properties include property owned by the Town that is designated open space or is undevelopable
based on environmental, access, or other factors; Granby Land Trust property (both owned and
easements); State of Connecticut Property; McLean Game Refuge property; and privately held
dedicated open space/conservation or agricultural easements. Refer to Figure 19 on the following
page showing these properties. These undeveloped areas include significant contiguous forests,
which provide diverse habitat and biodiversity, fresh air, cooling shade, and stormwater
management. These open spaces also provide opportunities for outdoor recreational activities, as
shown by the Granby Land Trust Trail Map on the following pages. They will forever remain
undeveloped.
When planning for additional open space, workshop participants and survey respondents noted the
preservation of wildlife corridors should be a top consideration, followed by the preservation of
agricultural land. It was also noted that hiking trails and wildlife/scenic viewing are the most
important elements of open spaces.

Photo Credit: Don Shaw, Jr.

Photo Credit: Jake Koteen

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Figure 19: Open Space Map
Town of Granby
Granby Land Trust – Easement
Granby Land Trust – Owned
State of Connecticut
McLean Game Refuge
Privately held dedicated open space /
conservation or agricultural easement

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Figure 20: Granby Land Trust Properties and Trail Map

Source: Granby Land Trust

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Agriculture
Agriculture remains a defining part of Granby’s identity, supported through
farm-friendly regulations, agricultural programs, and farmland preservation
efforts.

In addition to natural resources and open space, agriculture is a fundamental component of
Granby’s identity. The Town’s rural character has its roots in the tradition of New England
agriculture, the small farm, the fruit orchard, the horse farm, and the dairy farm. However,
agricultural lands began to steadily decline with the development pressures for new housing. To
support and encourage agriculture, in 2007 the Town established an Agricultural Commission. Part
of the Commission’s charge is to “search out and support opportunities for young farmers and new
farmers and support local, regional, and state vocational agricultural education programs”.
Advancing this mission, each September the Commission coordinates Open Farm Day, where
farms throughout Granby invite the public to experience demonstrations, farm-fresh food, games,
activities, and to see farm animals. This event educates the public about farming activities and
highlights the importance of agriculture to the community. In 2025, 21 Granby farms participated
in this event.
To further support agriculture, the Town also adopted farm friendly zoning regulations, which were
updated in 2021. This update included increased provisions to allow additional farm-based
businesses and agritourism, including farm stores and recreational activities on farms. These
regulation changes recognized the
importance of allowing farmers to
diversify their incomes while
preserving farms and farmland. In
addition to regulation changes to
support agriculture, the Town also
leases town-owned land to
farmers, including 16 Barn Door
Hills Road, 107 East Street, and
183-199 Loomis Street. The
cultivated area of these properties
is just under 100 acres. Many
residents also support local farms
through their participation in Photo Credit: Peter Dinella
Community Supported Agriculture, where they help to sustain the farm through an annual
monetary contribution or commitment and in return receive fresh produce throughout the growing
season.
When asked about additional strategies to support agriculture, workshop participants and survey
respondents identified several prioritizes, including Town acquisition of farmland or development
rights, updates to the zoning regulations to expand allowable uses on farms, establishment of a
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Right to Farm Ordinance, evaluation of other town-owned properties that could be leased to
farmers, and tax exemption and pro-farm tax policies. Implementing these strategies over the next
decade can help preserve Granby’s agricultural character and address concerns regarding the loss
of farmland.
Figure 21: Farmland Soils Classification Map
All areas are prime farmland
Farmland of local importance
Farmland of statewide
importance

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Community Facilities and Services
Granby benefits from high-quality schools, extensive parks and recreation
facilities, strong emergency services, and a wide range of community amenities
that contribute to its quality of life. As facilities age and community needs
evolve, strategic investment and planning will be needed to maintain and
enhance these services while addressing changing demographics and
infrastructure needs

Granby is known for its excellent public-school system, a range of recreational options, and
community facilities. This section provides an overview and inventory of these facilities and what
changes may be needed over the next ten years.

Town Facilities
There is a concentration of town-owned facilities in the Granby Center area, including the
municipal complex, the Public Works Facility, and two schools. The municipal complex is
comprised of six buildings, the Granby Drummer building, which is town-owned and is leased to
the community newspaper, Board of Education, Police Department, Senior Center and Youth
Services, Town Hall, and the Granby Public Library Main Branch buildings.
The Board of Education, Police Department, and Senior Center and Youth Services buildings were
constructed from 1999 to 2001. While there have not been major renovations to these buildings,
there have been some updates. For the Senior Center/Youth Services building, periodic cosmetic
upgrades such as paint, carpeting, and flooring keep the facility aesthetically pleasing.
Audio/visual
equipment
was
installed in 2024 allowing for larger
Town meetings to be held with
appropriate recording and virtual
participation capabilities in the large
capacity Community Room. Plans to
replace the 25-year old original
furniture are incorporated into the
capital plan. Similar to the Senior
Center/Youth Services building,
there have been some updates to the
Police Department, including a new
dispatch center completed in 2026,
upgrades to the
Emergency
Operations Center, and new carpeting. Prior to the construction of these buildings, these
departments were previously all located within the Town Hall building, which was constructed in
1964. Once the departments relocated to the new buildings, there was an update and refresh of the
Town Hall building. However, since then, there have been no major improvements or renovations
to the building or existing systems.
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The Granby Public Library Main branch building was constructed in 1981. A phased renovation
and planning project is currently underway to modernize and expand that building. Short-term
library improvements include new carpeting, fresh paint, upgraded lighting, and new meeting room
furniture to improve functionality and comfort. In the medium to long term, the library is exploring
a building expansion to add a larger Children’s Room, a dedicated Teen Area, and more program
and meeting spaces. A feasibility study and strategic planning process, supported by a capital
campaign consultant, are guiding the project to ensure it meets community needs and funding
requirements.

The Department of Public Works is located just up the road from the municipal complex. This
building was constructed in 1987 and an addition in 2014. Other town facilities shown in Figure
22 on the following page below include the transfer station on Old Stagecoach Road, the historic
Frederick H. Cossitt Library located on North Granby Road, and the animal shelter on Salmon
Brook Street. In 2022, there were some exterior repairs to the Cossitt Library, including carpentry
work and painting. Built in 1890, this historic building needs additional improvements and future
investments will have to be carefully considered. More recently in 2025, the animal shelter was
repaired and refreshed.

As town facilities age, and Town needs change, it becomes increasingly important to thoughtfully
evaluate capital investments and plan for upgrades or modifications that align with the Town’s
evolving needs while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

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Figure 22: Town Facilities Map
Community Facility
School
Park/Open Space
Other Town Property

DPW

Public Schools
Granby’s school system is known for its high standard of education and the community is
committed to maintaining this standard. The school system includes Kelly Lane Primary School

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(1961); Wells Road Intermediate School (1955); Granby Memorial Middle School (1992); and
Granby Memorial High School (1958).
Granby Public Schools serve as a strong example of a district committed to academic excellence,
community involvement, and student growth. With approximately 1,700 students across grades
PreK-12, the district has a favorable student-teacher ratio and a dedicated faculty and staff of just
over 300 people.
Granby Public Schools is committed to ensuring that students become empowered learners,
effective communicators and engaged contributors to society. Granby Memorial High School ranks
as the 18th school in Connecticut according to the U.S. News & World Report. Each school
consistently performs well above state averages on standardized assessments and offers an
excellent return on investment for below average per pupil expenditures in the state.
Granby Public Schools is known for strong academics, outstanding athletic programs, and robust
extracurricular activities such as the award-winning fall play and musical performance each spring.
In addition to serving students grades PreK-12, Granby also hosts a post-secondary transition
program for students ages 18-22, called Granby B.E.A.R. (Bringing Emerging Adults Resources)
Transition
Academy.
This
program, which started in the
2023-2024 school year, supports
students with developmental
disabilities in preparation for a
successful and fulfilling life after
high school. Granby Public
Schools maintains partnerships
with
community
resources,
businesses
and
community
colleges to promote local and
community-based experiences,
positive social relationships, and
independent living skills.
Photo Credit: Homes.com
Since adoption of the 2016 Plan, due to declining student enrollment, one of the schools, Frank M.
Kearns Primary School, located at 5 Canton Road closed. The Kelly Lane Primary School was
renovated and students from the Kearns School were relocated. The Town is currently in the
process of exploring opportunities for the closed school and is working with a developer to
potentially construct senior and workforce housing on the property.
With the projected changes in demographics, Granby schools will continue to be challenged by
the need to effectively balance the declining enrollment, aging infrastructure and the ongoing
commitment to increase quality and attractiveness of the schools and education system.

Emergency Services
There are three fire stations owned by the Lost Acres Fire Department, including the Center Station
on Salmon Brook Street, the West Granby Station on West Granby Road, and the North Station on
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North Granby Road. The Granby Ambulance Association, which provides service to East Hartland,
East Granby, and Granby, is located on Pegville Road. The Town contributes funding to support
these services as part of the annual budget process and is in the process of overseeing the
construction of a new emergency communications tower on Mountain Road to enhance radio
communications among the emergency service responders. Continued coordination with
emergency services will help ensure services and facilities meet evolving community needs over
the next decade, particularly as an aging population may increase demand for emergency response
services. Coordination will also be important as the community explores additional housing
opportunities.

Parks and Recreation Facilities
Granby is extremely fortunate to have several parks and recreation areas, which provide many
opportunities for outdoor recreation. Salmon Brook Park, located in Granby Center, is a 116-acre
park which offers a wide range of recreational programming and facilities. Recreational facilities
include softball and baseball fields, soccer and lacrosse fields, tennis and pickleball courts,
playgrounds, a dog park, horse ring, a swimming pond and bath house, a band shell, picnic
pavilions, memorial gardens, the Park House building (constructed in 2013 that contains offices
and a public meeting room), and a restroom building. Using grant funds, the Town also installed a
walking path in the park. This has been a great asset, providing opportunities for additional
recreation. As of the drafting of this Plan, the Town is in the process of expanding this path to
provide a connection to the park’s auxiliary parking lot on West Granby Road. These walking paths
provide access to hiking trails, which connect to the McLean Game Refuge. Ahren’s Park, located
on Hungary Road, has a collection of multi-purpose sports fields, a restroom and pavilion building,
a bocce court, and is home to the Town’s community gardens. A recent study of these two parks
outlined future uses and proposed improvements. As shown in the master plans (see Figure 24),
the proposed design for Salmon Brook Park includes a new skatepark, splash pad, playground,
pickleball courts, and a new restroom facility. The existing ballfields would also be reconfigured.
For Ahrens Park, proposed improvements include paved walking paths, a playground, field
lighting, a new pump track, hiking trails, additional pickleball courts, lacrosse fields, and an
expanded parking lot (see Figure 25).
Figure 23: Salmon Brook Park Playground and Band Shell

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Figure 24: Slamon Brook Park Master Plan, Prepared by GZA

Figure 25: Ahrens Park Master Plan, Prepared by GZA

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The Town of Granby also owns Holcomb Farm. Located in West Granby, the Holcomb Farm offers
a range of programs and activities while also demonstrating the community’s commitment to
supporting local agriculture. The farm includes a historic farmhouse constructed in 1850 that is
leased to the Friends of Holcomb Farm and is occupied by the farm manager for Holcomb Farm;
a banquet and meeting facility (constructed in 2015) that is managed by the Town’s Parks and
Recreation Department; the Holcomb Tree Trail, where trees have been planted and interpretative
signs installed that
teach visitors about
the
trees
and
landscape;
hiking
trails that connect to
the McLean Game
Refuge and Granby
Land Trust trails; and
an active farm. The
Friends of Holcomb
Farm manage this
working farm, which
grows
produce
without
chemical
fertilizers or pesticides. Through the Fresh Access program, more than 15 tons of the fresh produce
grown on the farm has been donated to people in need. The Friends of Holcomb Farm also operate
a Summer and Winter Community Supported Agriculture program. Recently, the Town of Granby
acquired 87 Simsbury Road, which is adjacent to the farm. The Friends of Holcomb Farm and the
Town have agreed for the Friends to convert the existing church on the property into a farm store
and production facility for the farm. This work is currently underway. About 277 acres of the farm
are also protected from development
through a conservation restriction held
by the Granby Land Trust. This
demonstrates and is an example of the
Town’s commitment to agricultural and
open space preservation.
Survey responses showed respondents
generally agree that town services and
facilities will meet the needs of
residents over the next ten years, but
identified opportunities for improved
overall maintenance of existing
facilities.

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Transportation and Utility Infrastructure
Granby’s transportation and utility systems are generally well maintained, but
future priorities include improving mobility options, addressing sewer capacity
constraints in growth areas, and coordinating infrastructure investments to
support housing opportunities and economic development

This section includes an inventory of Granby’s existing transportation and utility-related
infrastructure, including sewer, water, and gas service, and identified improvements and changes
that may be required over the next ten years.

Road Network
Like many municipalities, Granby’s road network is made up of state and local roads. The local
roads are under the control of the Town and in many cases these are roads that serve residential
neighborhoods. These roads typically have slower speeds and a lower traffic volume than state
roads. However, as shown on the roadway classification map in Figure 26, there are some
exceptions to this, including Day Street South, Simsbury Road, Canton Road, Mountain Road,
East Street, and Notch Road. There are several significant state roads that traverse Granby, these
include State Routes 10/202 (Salmon Brook Street); 20 (East Granby Road, West Granby Road,
Hartland Road); 189 (Hartford Avenue, North Granby Road, Granville Road), and 219
(Barkhamsted Road).
The map on the following page shows the functional classification of roads in Granby. The
functional classification is a rating system or hierarchy that categorizes roads based on traffic speed
and volume and land access. Route 10/202 is considered an ‘Other Principal Arterial’, this connects
regions. The other state routes that serve Granby are considered either minor arterial or major
collector roads. Major and minor collector roads gather traffic from local roads and funnel it to the
arterial road network, while the arterial roads connect the collector roads to the broader
transportation system.
Insert Road Pics Here

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Figure 26: Roadway Classification Map

Since adoption of the 2016 Plan, the Town has continued its reconstruction and repaving program
of Town streets. The State Department of Transportation also made significant changes to
intersections on State routes. The first was the construction of a roundabout at the Route 10, East
Street, and Notch Road intersection. This has addressed safety concerns in the area and improved
traffic flow. The second was the reconstruction of the intersection in Granby Center. These
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reconstruction efforts resulted in additional, dedicated turn lanes, traffic signal timing changes,
enhanced crosswalks, and additional sidewalks throughout the center area. Despite these
improvements, survey and workshop responses show continued concerns with the traffic flow and
light timing of this intersection. While additional changes from the State Department of
Transportation are unlikely over the next ten years, this can continue to be monitored.
While feedback indicated some concerns with the road system and primarily the Granby Center
intersection, other intersections were identified as well, these are shown in Figure 27. But overall
when asked about Granby’s road network and needed improvements, survey responses showed the
generally people think roads are in good condition and are safe. Therefore, these efforts to maintain
the road network should continue over the next ten years.
Figure 27: Intersection or Roadway Improvements, Workshop Responses

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Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities
Most Granby residents rely on motor vehicles to travel within and out of town, and the road
network has been designed in large part to handle this traffic. However, it is important in the
redesign of roads that the needs and safety of all users, including cyclists and pedestrians, are taken
into account. For example, with the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail extending into Granby, the
community can become an attractive destination for cyclists. Roads should be examined to
facilitate safe cycling.
Since the adoption of the last Plan, there have been improvements in pedestrian facilities, primarily
in the form of new sidewalks within the Granby Center area. Using grant funding, the Town
installed a sidewalk on the west side of Salmon Brook Street extending from the Town Green to
Salmon Brook Park (see Figure 28 below). And as part of the Connecticut Department of
Transportation’s Granby Center Intersection Improvement Project, sidewalks were installed on the
south side of East Granby Road extending from the Town Green to Bank Street. This project
included additional crosswalk enhancements within the center area as well. Other developments
have also expanded the pedestrian network. This includes the Station 280 apartment development
where a sidewalk was installed along the eastern side of Salmon Brook Street along the property’s
frontage and the Westfield Bank development, located on the north side of East Granby.
Figure 28: Salmon Brook Street Sidewalk Construction

Outside of the Granby Center area, sidewalks were installed along a portion of Mill Pond Drive as
part of the development of vacant properties, including the Greenway Village apartment
development and two commercial properties. A multi-use asphalt path was also installed on the

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west side of Salmon Brook Street from the intersection with Floydville Road to the YMCA as part
of The Grand apartment development.
Figure 29: Sidewalk (red) and Farmington Canal Heritage Trail Location (yellow)

Workshop and survey participants were asked to identify areas in need of improvements. Locations
in and around Granby Center for additional sidewalks and crosswalks were identified as well as
on Salmon Brook Street from Salmon Brook Park south toward the Stop and Shop area. A
connection to the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail was also identified as a priority. The Holcomb
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Farm area should also be considered for additional pedestrian amenities, including a potential
connection from the farm store that is under construction to the main Holcomb Farm campus.
However, not all areas will be appropriate for sidewalks or multi-use paths. In these areas, roads
can be made safer for pedestrians by wider shoulders.
Figure 30: Sidewalk, Trail and Bike Facilities Improvements, Workshop Responses

Public Transportation
Granby is served by CTtransit bus service. As shown on the CTtransit route map in Figure 31 on
the following page, the service is limited to the southeast part of Town. The bus travels along
Salmon Brook to Granby Center, before traveling westbound along West Granby Road, where it
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stops at the auxiliary parking lot to Salmon Brook Park. This parking lot is used as a park and ride
lot. The bus then reverses course, traveling back to Granby Center and then south along Salmon
Brook Street. This bus service is an express route, so there are limited stops and times when the
bus runs. As it primarily provides access to/from Hartford and other limited stops along the way,
the bus service is better suited to commuter needs.
Figure 31: CTtransit Bus Route Map

Source: CTtransit

For residents who rely on transportation options other than the private motor vehicle, the only
other option is the senior van service, which is run through the Granby Senior Center. This van
service is intended for residents aged 60 years or older or people with disabilities. The service may
be used for medical appointments, grocery shopping and in-town errands. The service primarily
operates Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM to 4 PM and requires advanced reservations.
Survey respondents and workshop participants identified a need for additional local transportation
options, including expanded senior transportation services and a ‘hop-on, hop-off’ service. Others
suggested improvements to the existing CTTransit service, including bus stop locations and route
timing. As the Town plans for the next ten years and seeks to support a mix of uses in the Granby
Center area, expanded transportation options within and around the Center may become
increasingly feasible and beneficial.

Sewer System
The Town, through its Water Pollution Control Authority, owns and maintains a wastewater
collection system that primarily serves Granby Center and buildings along Salmon Brook Street
and the Canton Road area. The wastewater collection system extends from MeadowBrook of
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Granby to the north, to the Granby/Simsbury town line to the south, and from just northwest of the
Town’s Public Works Facility on North Granby Road to the west, to Bank Street to the east in
Granby Center. Granby’s sewer system is located within its Sewer Service Area, which limits
where sewers can be extended within the Town. The sewer service area was established in 2002
and includes approximately 913 parcels (see Figure 32). The wastewater collection system within
the sewer service area currently consists of approximately 39,700 feet of sewer mains, ranging in
size from 4-inch diameter to 24-inch diameter, three municipal pump stations, and five private
wastewater pump stations.
Figure 32: Sewer Service Area (red outline) and Sewer Line Location (white/black line)

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Sewers were first constructed in 1969 in Granby Center with sewer connections on Salmon Brook
Street, Bank Street, East Granby Road, Hartford Avenue, and North Granby Road. At that time,
the wastewater from these areas was conveyed to a wastewater treatment facility located off
Salmon Brook Street. Over the years, the sewer lines were extended, and the wastewater treatment
facility was decommissioned. Granby’s wastewater flow is now conveyed to the Town of Simsbury
for treatment at its Water Pollution Control Facility. Granby has an agreement with the Town of
Simsbury that allows the discharge of up to 9.2% of Simsbury’s treatment facility average daily
flow capacity, or 353,280 gallons per day of average daily wastewater flow for any calendar year.
Granby’s wastewater flow is measured at the Simsbury Town line and that flow data is used to
confirm that Granby is within its flow allocation.
In 2022, the Town hired a consultant to complete a wastewater flow study. The flow study
confirmed that Granby remains within its allowable discharge limits to Simsbury. At that time, the
annual average daily wastewater flow was 113,800 gallons per day. When excluding infiltration
and inflow, or water that enters the system, the annual average daily sanitary flow was
approximately 93,900 gallons per day. As part of the flow study, the consultant also completed a
buildout analysis of properties within the sewer district. Based on the build-out analysis, the
projected future average daily wastewater flow was 329,100 gallons per day. This study also
included an assessment of the hydraulic capacity of the sewer system. A capacity constraint in the
10-inch sewer main from the Salmon Brook pump station to the Granby/Simsbury town line was
identified. At full build-out conditions based on the estimated flow rates, the capacity of this line
would be exceeded during peak flow periods. Additional monitoring of the actual flow to
determine future allocations based on the constraint in this line was recommended.
Other sections of this Plan identify that Granby Center and the area along Salmon Brook Street is
one of just a few areas in Granby with infrastructure that could support additional housing and
commercial development. Therefore given the limitations of this line, and the limited area served
by sewer to be able to support a mix of uses, addressing the limitations of this sewer line and
considering other infrastructure improvements should be pursued over the next ten years. Other
infrastructure improvements include upgrades to the two municipal pump stations. The pump
station in Salmon Brook Park was recently replaced however the two remaining pump stations are
in need of improvements. This is also consistent with survey responses that showed support for
infrastructure improvements if it would support economic development. (Refer to the Sewer
System Plan section outlined later in this plan for information about sewer extension and avoidance
areas.)
It should be noted that any property that is not connected to sewer, has a septic system. The
Farmington Valley Health District is responsible for reviewing and overseeing the installation and
repair of septic systems in Granby. Given the small land area served by sewer, the majority of
Granby is served by private well and septic. Depending on soil suitability, lot arrangement, and
other factors, this can impact future land uses.

Water
Granby is served by two water companies, Aquarion Water Company and Salmon Brook District
Water. Aquarion Water Company provides water service to the southeastern part of town, primarily
along Salmon Brook Street (Route 10) and Canton Road, south of the Salmon Brook to the
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Simsbury town line (shown in green in Figure 33). Salmon Brook District Water provides water
service to the Granby Center area (shown in blue in Figure 34). Any property located outside of
these areas is on a private well. Below is a map showing the general locations of water service.
These water companies are separate entities from the Town, but coordination will be important to
understand how their capacity and infrastructure may impact future land use and development
potential within their service areas over the next ten years.
Figure 33: Water Service Location (Salmon Brook District Water – Blue, Aquarion Water Company – Green)

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Gas
Granby is served by Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG). Since the 2016 Plan, gas lines have been
extended throughout the Granby Center area, enabling many properties to connect. However,
current capacity and infrastructure constraints limit addition connections, and some recent
developments in Granby Center were unable to connect to gas. Over the next ten years, if there is
a demonstrated demand and need for additional service, coordination with the gas provider will be
important to support potential system upgrades and improvements.

Electrical
Electrical service is provided by Eversource, which is the utility company that is responsible for
the physical infrastructure that delivers electricity to all of Granby. This includes supplying,
transmitting, and distributing electricity. In the deregulated State of Connecticut, residents and
businesses have the option of choosing a different third-party supplier for the generation of their
electricity. Electrical service is tailored to the needs of the individual property and is not based on
a certain size or capacity that may be needed for a specific town area. There are no known concerns
with the electrical service that will impact planning over the next decade.

Communication
Granby is served by a range of communications and telecommunications providers, including Cox,
Frontier, T-Mobile, Verizon, Xfinity (Comcast), Spectrum, Earthlink, and Starlink. These
companies provide phone, television, and internet services through technologies such as fiber, 5G,
cable, DSL, landline, and satellite, with service availability, speed, and capacity varying by
provider and location.
Efforts have been made to expand fiver access throughout Granby. This has improved connectivity
for residents who work remotely or operate home-based businesses. Enhanced
telecommunications infrastructure can strengthen Granby’s appeal as a place to live and work by
supporting flexible work arrangements and reducing commuting needs. Over time, these
improvements may also create opportunities for evolving home-based business activity and the
development of co-working space or other community gathering places.

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Granby Tomorrow

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The first section of this Plan was an inventory of Granby and identified community issues,
concerns, and opportunities. This section of the Plan begins with the community’s vision for the
next ten years followed by how that vision will be achieved. Included in this section is a future
land use plan and infrastructure plan.
At its core, this Plan seeks to balance growth and development with conservation and preservation.
Growth should generally be directed to areas with infrastructure and services that can support
strategic development, while conservation efforts should be focused on areas with significant
natural resources, open space, and farmland. With this careful planning, Granby can encourage the
preservation of open space and farmland, foster the restoration and the preservation of historic
sites and structures, preserve our scenic views, support the construction of a variety of housing
types and commercial services that benefit the community, anticipate and prepare for change and
technological advances, foster the economic, social and racial diversity of the community, and
preserve Granby’s fundamental values.

Vision Statement
Over the next decade, Granby will be a community that thoughtfully balances growth with
preservation, guided by a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, rural and agricultural
character, historic preservation, and long-term sustainability. We will protect our water resources,
forests, wildlife habitats, and scenic landscapes, ensuring that natural systems remain healthy,
resilient, and central to our community’s identity.
Open spaces, farmland, and recreational resources will be preserved and expanded to maintain
Granby’s rural heritage while providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. Agriculture will
continue to be a defining feature, supported by policies that sustain working farms, protect
agricultural land, and promote local food systems.
Growth and development will be carefully managed to complement the town’s fundamental values.
A diverse and resilient local economy will thrive through well-designed commercial and industrial
development that strengthens the tax base, supports local businesses, and meets community needs
without compromising our rural character. Granby Center will continue to evolve into a vibrant,
walkable hub with a mix of housing, businesses, and civic spaces that foster social interaction and
economic vitality.
Housing opportunities will expand to meet the needs of residents at all life stages, including young
families, workforce households, and older adults, while maintaining compatibility with existing
neighborhoods and infrastructure. Our roads and transportation system will be well maintained,
safer, more connected, and will offer improved options for walking and biking.
Municipal services and infrastructure will be efficient and responsive, supporting sustainable
growth and adapting to changing technologies and demographics. Investments in our educational
system, community facilities, government services, and infrastructure will be guided by careful
financial planning, transparency, and a commitment to long-term value.
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Through collaboration, innovation, and respect for our past, Granby will remain a welcoming and
vibrant community, and will carefully plan for our future.

Achieving the Vision
The following outlines the goals, policies/strategies, and actions that Granby will follow to achieve
the vision. The goals are intended to be an overarching purpose or desired outcome that is specific
to that topic area, while the strategies/policies provide an approach or position to accomplish the
goals, and the action items are a specific task that can be completed to help implement the
strategies/policies. These are divided into the following topic areas: Natural Resources and
Environment; Open Space and Recreation; Agriculture; Housing; Transportation; Commercial and
Industrial Development; Granby Center; and concludes with Municipal Operations and
Infrastructure.

Natural Resources and Environment
Goal 1.1: Protect our water resources, including groundwater, wetlands,
watercourses and watersheds.
Policy/Strategy:
1.1.1 Reduce and improve quality of stormwater runoff.
Actions:
a. The Town has adopted numerous Zoning and Subdivision Regulation amendments
that promote Low Impact Development (LID). However, the Town’s regulations,
ordinances and general practices must be regularly reviewed to assure that the Town
is in compliance with the recommendations and requirements of the State DEEP and
the State General Permit Requirements for the Discharge of Stormwater from Small
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems.
b. Update as necessary the Town’s Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance which
establishes minimum standards and promotes best management practices to limit
erosion and sedimentation.
1.2.1 Preserve floodplains.
Actions:
a. Promote passive recreation for floodplain areas while prohibiting new development
within the floodplain.
b. Continue to review the Special Flood Hazard Area Zoning Regulations for
consistency with the Federal Emergency Management Administration Guidelines and
the regulations of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental
Protection.

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Goal 1.2: Preserve, manage, and maintain our forest land and native vegetation.
Policies/Strategies:
1.2.1 Conserve and enhance forest land and native vegetation and promote
biodiversity.
Actions:
a. Support and promote the town arboretum (Holcomb Farm Tree Trail).
a. Promote and create wildlife habitat and corridors in an effort to protect fish and
wildlife by coordinating with other entities/organizations as needed.
b. Utilize the Natural Diversity Database when reviewing land use applications.
c. Continue to use the Farmington Valley
Biodiveristy Project’s Conservation Area
Map and associated databases in the
Planning and Zoning and IWWC land
use review process and where
appropriate, make regulatory changes to
promote biodiversity.
d. Review the Connecticut’s most current
Wildlife Action Plan and determine if
any regulatory actions are needed to
support the effort.
Photo Credit: Austin White

Goal 1.3: Balance development with the preservation and protection of natural
resources.
Policies/Strategies:
1.3.1 Minimize the impact of development on the natural environment.
Actions:
a. Establish standards to minimize light pollution and promote dark sky initiatives.
b. Consider the adoption of regulations for the preservation of Granby’s ridgelines and
traprock ridges to minimize the visual impact of homes or other structures, including
solar, roads and other infrastructure on the surrounding landscape without breaking
the natural contours of the ridgeline.
c. Assess noise pollution and recommend ways to minimize noise pollution if it is
determined to be a concern.

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Goal 1.4: Promote education and pursue sustainability initiatives to reduce
environmental impacts
Policies/Strategies
1.4.1 Promote and encourage Commissioners and residents to participate in
educational programs and training opportunities and conservation projects.
Actions:
a. Continue the Conservation Commission’s conversation series to educate homeowners
about the importance of reducing their individual impact on water quality by
minimizing the use of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides; maintaining septic
systems; properly disposing of cleaning products and automotive oil and grease; the
importance of wetland resource areas and buffers; and about animal and human
interactions.
b. Encourage the construction of rain gardens where appropriate to treat and minimize
stormwater runoff.
c. Encourage members of the Conservation Commission and others to complete the
DEEP Master Wildlife Training Program.
d. Educate and encourage residents to participate in forest management plans.
1.4.2 Assess Town facilities and explore sustainability initiatives.
Actions:
a. Assess and evaluate renewable energy options for town facilities.
b. Examine and assess ways to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions for
town facilities and vehicles. This should include planning for energy efficiency and
cost savings as equipment is replaced.
c. Promote waste reduction and recycling, including electronic disposal, clothing
donation, textile recycling, composting, and hazardous waste reduction.
d. Promote water conservation, such as rain harvesting, stormwater management, etc.

Open Space and Recreation
Goal 2.1: Preserve future open space areas to maintain the character of Granby.
Policies/Strategies:
2.1.1 Identify areas to preserve that connect existing permanently preserved parcels,
preserve wildlife corridors, provide hiking or other passive recreational
activities, or preserve agricultural land.
Actions:
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a. Update the open space plan and town-owned land. Use this plan when making land
use and acquisition decisions.
b. Utilize wetlands, streams, and floodplains as open space linkages
2.1.2 Develop methods to both increase funding for and ways to encourage the
preservation of strategic undeveloped properties or areas.
Actions:
a. Recommend an annual Town budgeted contribution to the open space fund to assure
the availability and immediate access to funds as needed.
b. Continue to either require the dedication of open space or fee-in-lieu of open space
with all subdivision applications, placing an emphasis on those areas that can link
existing open space parcels. Where no beneficial land areas are included within the
land proposed for development, require payment of a fee-in-lieu.
c. Encourage Flexible Residential Development* particularly where larger areas of open
space will benefit the community and where the open space will be adjacent to
existing open properties, this should include an assessment if FRD should be allowed
in all residential zones.
d. Prioritize conservation easements
over areas where public access is not
anticipated and where the goal is
primarily the preservation of flora,
fauna, and environmental features.
e. Maintain the Town’s favorable tax
policies to protect open space land
area and periodically audit PA-490.
f. Evaluate other funding courses for
the support and acquisition of open
space.

Photo Credit: Rick Orluk

*A Flexible Residential Development arranges homes closer together on smaller lots than
those normally required under the Zoning Regulations in exchange for additional open
space.
2.1.3 Enhance communication, dialogue, and coordination with preservation groups
about open space acquisition and preservation.
Actions:
a. Evaluate the open space fund. This fund can be used to assist the Granby Land Trust
or other groups in acquiring open space areas, or to supplement the State’s purchase
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of development rights program. This fund could also be available for matching funds
with state and federal open space acquisition program grants.
b. Collaborate with the Granby Land Trust, McLean Game Refuge, and Farmington
River Watershed Association on conservation and preservation efforts, including
planned acquisitions.

Goal 2.2: Promote, encourage, and provide for a wide variety of outdoor
recreational activities.
Policies/Strategies:
2.2.1 Expand and promote the use of Town parks and other properties for uses
beyond organized sports
Actions:
a. Consider providing outdoor recreational activities on 107 East Street and Holcomb
Farm.
b. Designate wildlife or scenic viewing
areas.
c. Maintain the Holcomb Farm as open
space, for community, educational,
recreational, and agricultural activities.
d. Evaluate open space areas and determine
maintenance requirements, if needed, and
plan for the maintenance and
management of open space areas.
Photo Credit: Rick Orluk

2.2.2 Preserve, maintain, create and extend hiking, biking, and horse trails.
Actions:
a. Consider the acquisition of easements over existing trails, particularly where such
trails may be threatened by the future sale of property.
b. Coordinate efforts to create a comprehensive trail map and trail system. This should
include the creation and regular update of a Town trail map and enhancement of the
Holcomb Farm trails.
2.2.3 Ensure that open space is accessible and meets user needs.
Actions:
a. Consider the provision of parking areas when planning for open space.

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b. Plan for multi-use trails and ADA
accessibility.
c. Designate some areas of open space
properties as pet-friendly areas.
d. Design and utilize throughout Town a
specific post or sign, which identifies
preserved areas of open space
Photo Credit: Don Shaw, Jr.

Agriculture
Goal 3.1: Encourage the preservation of new and existing farmlands, existing farm
operations, agricultural soils, and farm architecture.
Policies/Strategies:
3.1.1 Develop and consider methods to alleviate economic pressures which force land
into development.
Actions:
a. Encourage the permanent preservation of farmland through the State of Connecticut
development rights purchase program, through the activities of the Granby Land
Trust, and through Town purchase of development rights.
b. Continue that Town’s favorable tax policies to protect farmland (PA-490).
c. Consider the adoption of a farm property abatement ordinance as outlined in CGS 1281m. Such an ordinance would allow for the abatement of up to 50 percent of
property taxes of a dairy farm, fruit farm, vegetable, nursery or similar farm.
3.1.2 Review and modify regulations as necessary to support farm operations and to
preserve farmland.
Actions:
a. Undertake a comprehensive review of the Zoning Regulations Section 8.15
Agriculture, including Farm Stores, Limited Farm Store and Agritourism, and identify
changes that may be needed that will support farms, allowing diversification of
farming operations and minimizing potential conflicts with surrounding areas.
b. When reviewing subdivision applications and the open space requirement, consider
acquiring prime or important agricultural land that could be utilized for agricultural
purposes.

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c. Educate and communicate information about state regulations, including
Connecticut’s Right to Farm Law, that support farm operations.
3.1.3 Collaborate to support the preservation of historic farm structures.
Actions:
a. The great variety and number of old
barns are an important part of
Granby’s agricultural heritage.
Consider supporting and assisting
where feasible the Salmon Brook
Historic Society in an effort to
establish a process or a fund to help
with the repair and maintenance of
such barns.

Photo Credit: Austin White

Goal 3.2: Promote sustainable farming practices and methods.
Policies/Strategies:
3.2.1 Encourage farming practices that are consistent with preserving environmental
resources and can respond to the changing climate.
Actions:
a. Collaborate with, and refer farmers to, the Natural Resources Conservation Service,
Connecticut Department of Agriculture, University of Connecticut Agriculture
Extension, and other entities, to implement BMPs. Agricultural Best Management
Practices (BMPs) are practical cost-effective actions that agricultural producers can
take to reduce the amount of pesticides, fertilizers, animal waste, and other pollutants
entering our water resources and to conserve water supply.
b. Educate residents, farmers, and developers about integrated pest management
programs to reduce the negative impacts of pesticides and herbicides.
c. Study how much food is annually produced locally, how it is marketed, when it is
harvested, and the primary concerns regarding overall crop production, with an
emphasis on crops that will serve the local population, including farm to table where
appropriate.

Goal 3.3: Utilize Town property where appropriate for agricultural activities.
Policies/Strategies:
3.3.1 Maintain and preserve Holcomb Farm for agricultural purposes in addition to
its open space, social, education and recreational activities.
Actions:

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a. Regularly review the farm management for assurance that the farm operation is
managed in the most efficient, productive, economic and environmentally sustainable
manner.
b. Continually review and consider how Holcomb Farm crops might best serve Granby
and the region, including how it can produce fresh produce for the elderly and those
of less economic means.
c. Continue to use the farm for agriculture and seek opportunities for expansion.
3.3.2 Inventory town property to identify areas with primary farmland soils and those
most suitable for continued and future agricultural activities.
Actions:
a. The Town’s community gardens offer an ideal opportunity for residents to share in the
experience of growing their own food. The Town should expand the gardens as the
need arises.
b. The Town should continue to lease town-owned properties to farmers, including the
East Street farm, farmland along Barn
Door Hills Road, and properties on
Loomis Street.
c. Survey other existing town-owned
properties to identify other properties
that might be used for agricultural
purposes and to support the local
agricultural community.
d. Engage the Agricultural Commission to
play an important advisory role on the
use of Town properties for agriculture.
Photo Credit: Don Shaw, Jr.

Transportation
Goal 4.1: Support and encourage modes of transportation other than the motor
vehicle.
Policies/Strategies:
4.1.1 Seek ways to support and enhance bus service, particularly regarding access and
improvements to public transportation.
Actions:
a. Continue to participate in the Greater Hartford Transit District, which will allow
access to grants.

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b. Examine the CTTransit bus route in Granby, including bus stop location(s), park-andride lot, and route timing, and consider recommendations to encourage the use of
public transportation, particularly in and around Granby Center.
c. Study the success of the senior van program. Following this lead, consider additional
programs to promote shared trips for seniors as well as the youth population.
4.1.2 Increase and enhance pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
Actions:
a. Consider bike lanes, paths, sharrows, and other bicycle facilities throughout Granby,
including establishing east/west connections.
b. Require the construction of sidewalks for commercial and residential developments to
increase connectivity.
c. Provide for the construction of sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and bike paths,
particularly in and around Granby Center as outlined in the Granby Center Study.
Seek to connect these facilities to traffic generators, such as commercial and
residential developments and town facilities, and to existing pedestrian and bicycle
infrastructure, including the Farmington Valley Canal Heritage Trail.
d. Provide for the construction of sidewalks along Salmon Brook Street to connect
Salmon Brook Park to the bike path along Floydville Road; within proximity to the
schools; and other areas to enhance pedestrian safety.
e. Encourage developments and town properties to include pedestrian and bicycle
amenities, such as bike racks, benches, etc.

Goal 4.2: Provide for the safety of residents through proper street maintenance and
design of roadways and intersections.
Policies/Strategies:
4.2.1 List, prioritize and improve problem intersections.
Actions:
a. Define a process to develop a list of intersections which are deficient in safety and/or
design and prepare a plan for their improvement. Any such list should include but is
not limited to: Simsbury Road/Route 20; Bushy Hill Road/Route 20; Day
Street/Route 189; Mechanicsville Road/Route 189 and Route 10; Meadowbrook
Road/Route 10; Case Street/Route 219; and Wells Road/Route 189/Route 20.
b. Relocate, re-design or eliminate the Hungary Road/Route 20 intersection.
c. Clear vegetation, regrade and continually maintain the sight lines at intersections and
consider other mechanisms, such as roundabouts, to improve safety.

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d. Monitor the Granby Center intersection improvement project and make
recommendations to the Connecticut Department of Transportation as necessary.
4.2.2 Encourage the maintenance and design of roads based on traffic engineering
principles and with regard to the overall goals of this POCD and our
fundamental values.
Actions:
a. When roads are reconstructed/repaved, consideration should be given to provide
adequate shoulders to accommodate the safe passing of vehicles, pedestrians and
bicycles.
b. Continue to review and participate in regional long-range roadway and traffic plans
for Granby.
c. Provide for the careful placement of curb cuts along collector and arterial roads and
seek to limit the number of curb cuts along all roadways.
d. Encourage street design that complements residential neighborhoods and include
traffic calming mechanisms to reduce vehicular traffic volume and speed of vehicles.
e. Consider other mechanisms to address vehicle speed concerns.
f. Continue to support the road paving and reconstruction program.

Goal 4.3: Encourage a connected transportation network.
Policies/Strategies:
4.3.1 Require connections between developments, including provisions for vehicles,
pedestrians, and bicyclists
Actions:
a. Minimize the construction of new cul-de-sac roads when feasible except where they
are designed as a private drive.
b. Require rights of way in various locations along proposed streets to accommodate
connections to future or planned developments, open space, and other properties.
c. Develop a system of central parking areas and user-friendly sidewalks that include
landscaping and benches to encourage pedestrian traffic and reduce vehicular
movements.

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Commercial and Industrial Development
Goal 5.1: Provide opportunities for new commercial and industrial development to
broaden the tax base, increase employment opportunities, and increase the
availability of local commercial goods and services.
Policies/Strategies:
5.1.1 Review regulations and infrastructure needs and identify opportunities for
changes to encourage commercial and industrial development.
Actions:
a. Prepare a list of commercial uses, products, and services that are presently
unavailable within the Town and review the zoning regulations to determine if
barriers exist that would prevent the establishment of such uses. This should also be
responsive to and reflect anticipated changes in the commercial and industrial
marketplaces.
b. Review the T1 and ED Zones and consider amendments to allow greater
opportunities for commercial, mixed use, and multifamily developments.
c. Review the zoning regulations and provide greater opportunities for mixed use
developments in appropriate areas.
d. Identify areas that may be appropriate for low intensity commercial or light industrial
uses that can serve as a transition
between commercial and residential
developments.
e. Improvements to infrastructure will
increase opportunities for new,
expanded, and improved commercial
development. Consider improvements
and extensions where such
infrastructure (sewer, water, gas) will
encourage new commercial uses or
will support commercial expansion.
5.1.2 Enhance communication with local business owners and the Chamber of
Commerce to better support Granby businesses.
Actions:
a. Engage with local business owners and commercial property owners to discuss
programs or opportunities the Town can pursue to address challenges in maintaining
or improving a business or commercial property in Town, including regulatory
change(s), infrastructure improvement(s), etc.
b. Partner with local businesses and the Chamber of Commerce to coordinate
community events in Granby.
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Goal 5.2: Establish and maintain standards to encourage cohesive commercial
development that is of an appropriate scale and relation to its surroundings.
Policies/Strategies:
5.2.1 Encourage the appropriate scale and design of development within the various
zones by reviewing and amending the zoning regulations as necessary.
Actions:
a. Avoid the construction of small scale, individual commercial and strip developments
by placing size limits on new or modified commercial buildings, encouraging shared
parking, limiting curb cuts, and ensuring site design is appropriate to the surrounding
context, this should include buffers as needed.
b. Consider amendments to the zoning regulations that require specific architectural
guidelines to be used in the design of commercial buildings, as appropriate for the
zone and area where such buildings are proposed. As part of this, consideration
should be given to the entity responsible for the implementation and application of
these guidelines.

Housing
Goal 6.1: Provide housing opportunities to support current and future residents.
Policies/Strategies:
6.1.1 Support the increase of housing opportunities in Granby Center and in areas
that may be served by public infrastructure, primarily water and sewer.
Actions:
a. Review the recommendations from the Granby Center Study and update the Zoning
Regulations related to density, coverage, height, parking, minimum lot size,
landscaping requirements, buffers, and architectural design standards, to encourage
high-quality housing development in Granby Center that is of suitable scale. In this
process, consideration and attention shall also be given to the historic properties and
historic overlay zone to maintain and enhance the historic resources in the area.
b. Review the Zoning Regulations in other areas that may be served by public
infrastructure to determine changes that may be needed to support housing. This
should include regulations related to density, coverage, height, parking, minimum lot
size, landscaping requirements, buffers, architectural design standards, and others as
applicable.
c. Consider a Zoning Regulation amendment that permits a mix of housing and
commercial uses as appropriate in different areas.

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d. Consider a Zoning Regulation amendment which would allow the construction of
two-family structures or a mix of one- and two-family structures in areas served by
public infrastructure or in areas where soils can support this.
6.1.2 Explore and encourage housing opportunities for older residents.
Actions:
a. Pursue the redevelopment of senior housing, including the Kearns School property for
senior housing and inventory other town land that may be suitable for housing.
b. Encourage the construction of active adult, elderly housing, and assisted living
facilities. This may include consideration of a Zoning Regulation amendment related
to accessory apartments, density bonus, a simplified approval process for senior
housing, or other mechanisms.
c. Encourage the investigation of senior housing grant opportunities and other
collaborations and support when appropriate.
d. Maintain a list of senior housing developments in Granby and contact information to
provide to residents.
6.1.3 Support affordable housing opportunities and housing for younger residents
seeking to move to or to stay in Granby.
Actions:
a. Pursue workforce housing and inventory town
land that may be suitable for housing.
b. Consider mechanisms including inclusionary
zoning requirements, density bonuses,
simplified approval process for affordable
housing, and others as appropriate.
c. Explore ways to support the existing
affordable housing developments in Granby,
including investigating grant opportunities
and other collaboration and support when appropriate.
d. Maintain a list of existing affordable housing developments in Granby and contact
information to provide to residents.
e. Monitor the recent changes to the accessory apartment regulation and determine if
further changes are needed, including the allowable size, occupancy requirements,
and approval process for attached and detached structures, or other provisions.
f. Consider a change to the zoning regulations that will allow single-family housing on
smaller lots where infrastructure will support such density.

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6.1.4 Ensure traditional housing development patterns are sustainable and sensitive to
the surrounding area.
Actions:
a. Continue to promote the use of the Flexible Residential Development, to cluster
houses where appropriate and to preserve open space and agricultural land.
b. Encourage the construction of housing that utilizes alternative energy sources and
is designed for energy conservation.
c. Discourage high density land uses in rural areas where existing and proposed
infrastructure is inadequate and where such development is inconsistent with
sustainability principles. Encourage high density land uses in areas where existing
or proposed infrastructure is adequate and where such development is consistent
with sustainability principles.
d. Review the Zoning Regulations for permitted housing types, lot size, and density
within the residential districts.

Goal 6.2: Encourage the upkeep and maintenance of Granby’s existing housing
stock.
Policies/Strategies:
6.2.1 Seek to provide mechanisms to support property maintenance.
Actions:
a. Continue the Housing Rehabilitation Program and seek and promote other state and
federal sources of home improvement funds.
b. Collaborate with other entities to address property maintenance issues and concerns.
c. Educate residents as necessary on the importance of long term and consistent home
maintenance.
d. Encourage the renovation, restoration, maintenance, and preservation of older homes
with special attention to the architectural integrity of the exterior.

Granby Center
Goal 7.1: Develop and re-develop the Center as a dynamic area that fosters
connectivity and supports a diverse mix of uses.
Policies/Strategies:
7.1.1 Review regulations and identify opportunities for mixed-use developments,
housing, and diversified commercial opportunities in appropriate areas.
Actions:

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a. Review the Granby Center Study and consider the adoption of the proposed new
Granby Center Zone. This includes proposed permitted and Special Permit uses; the
area and bulk standards; and parking requirements within this Zone.
b. Review the Center Commons and Center Edge Zones and identify changes to the
zone boundaries and uses in these Zones.
c. Inventory undeveloped and underdeveloped areas within the Center. Analyze the
possibilities for future development and determine changes to the regulations that
may be needed to facilitate future uses. Also assess the suitability of connecting these
sites to public water and public sewer.
7.1.2 Assess existing infrastructure and determine needed improvements and/or
expansions to better support the Center.
Actions:
a. Discuss water service with the Salmon Brook District Water to better understand their
system capacity and any planned changes in Granby Center.
b. Engage Connecticut Natural Gas to determine needed improvements to the system to
increase and enhance service to Granby Center.
c. Continue to monitor wastewater flows and determine improvements that may be
needed to the sewer system based on projected needs in Granby Center.
7.1.3 Promote a well-connected Center area.
Actions:
a. Improve pedestrian access by extending
existing sidewalks and establishing
crosswalks where necessary. This
includes filling in sidewalk gaps within
the Center and also linking adjacent
residential areas and other properties to
the Center with sidewalks.
b. Modify the Zoning Regulations to require
connections and linkages between
Granby Center developments.
c. Assess and determine a
Source: Granby Center Town Study, BFJ Planning
bicycle/pedestrian connection to the
Farmington Valley Greenway to the southeast along Route 189.
d. Assess parking needs and evaluate opportunities for shared parking if needed.

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e. Explore the potential to extend Merchants Way as outlined in the Granby Center
Study.

Goal 7.2: Establish and maintain standards to ensure a cohesive Center area.
Policies/Strategies
7.2.1 Promote streetscape improvements.
Actions:
a. Add additional street and business lighting to enhance nighttime activity as
appropriate.
b. Assess the Bank Street recommended improvements as outlined in the Granby
Center Study and facilitate the implementation of such improvements.
c. Evaluate the existing streetscape throughout the Center and assess opportunities
for tree planting, the installation of other planters, benches, and other minor
improvements within the right of way.
d. Assess the installation of wayfinding signs and sign/banner attachments to street
lights to help identify the Center area.
e. Review and update the sign regulations to ensure coordinated, complementary
signage throughout the Center in conjunction with architectural design guidelines.
7.2.2 Review and recommend improvements to the Town Green, both design and function.
Actions:
a. Review the conceptual Town Green design plan in the Granby Center Study and use
this as a starting point for the development of a detailed plan for the Town Green area,
this includes the recommendation to reclaim a portion of Park Place to expand the
Town Green.
b. Assess potential uses of the Town Green and ensure the proposed design would
facilitate these uses.
7.2.3 Develop and implement design guidelines for Center properties
Actions:
a. Determine desirable building and site elements to promote in the development or
redevelopment of properties so that projects harmonize with current and future
developments. Update the Granby Center zoning regulations to incorporate these
desirable elements.
b. Assess the Granby Center Historic Overlay District and determine if specific
guidelines or other regulatory tools should be pursued for these properties.
c. Explore the creation of a Local Historic District for the Granby Center Historic
Overlay District properties.
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Municipal Operations and Utility Infrastructure
Goal 8.1: Maintain and enhance community facilities and services.
Policies/Strategies:
8.1.1 Ensure that community facilities are maintained and enhance those that are
aging or in need of renovation to better serve residents.
Actions:
a. Review the recently completed study
of Salmon Brook Park and Ahrens
Park and use this as a guide for future
improvements and renovations.
b. Continue the library phased
renovation and planning project
efforts.
c. Review other town facilities,
including the schools, and identify
improvements that may be needed to
continue to meet the needs of
residents.
d. Adopt, maintain, and follow the capital improvement plan and ensure such plan
reflects and prioritizes the improvements that will be needed to town facilities.
e. Identify and consider the acquisition or sale of strategic properties where such
acquisitions or sale can benefit the community.
8.1.2 Assess community services and seek to ensure that they meet the needs of
current and future residents.
Actions:
a. Review changing demographics and assess and adjust administrative costs and
community services as needed, particularly regarding the aging of the population and
youth services.
b. Seek opportunities to combine, complement, or share services with other
communities to reduce costs and maximize benefit.
c. Explore opportunities to share services and to improve communication among various
Town departments and schools.
d. Maintain and support our high quality of public education.

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Goal 8.2: Ensure that the utility infrastructure matches the needs of the community.
Policies/Strategies
8.2.1 Assess existing infrastructure and ensure that it is of sufficient capacity and
design to meet current and future needs.
Actions:
a. Promote the extension of water lines along the southern portion of Salmon Brook
Street and Floydville Road.
b. Coordinate with Aquarion Water Company and Salmon Brook District Water to
understand current and planned improvements.
c. Review the wastewater flow study that was completed and assess and plan for
upgrades to the sewer system to support current and future needs.
d. Modify the existing sewer service area map, allowing for an expansion of the sewer
service area along Salmon Brook Street and north and south of Floydville Road, and
eliminating areas north of Crest Road, along North Granby Road.
e. Consult with Connecticut Natural Gas regarding the gas system and encourage and
support changes that may be needed to increase capacity and support potential
expansions if needed.
f. Encourage the development of strategies to keep up to date on changing technology
and trends.
g. Review and coordinate with providers of electric and telecommunications services to
support enhancements to the system as may be needed.

Goal 8.3: Enhance and maintain a transparent and carefully planned budgeting
process.
Policies/Strategies
8.3.1 Continue the Town’s long-range financial planning efforts, pursue innovative
funding opportunities, and maintain a stable and predictable tax rate, recognizing
the overall economic impact of any proposed property tax increase.
Actions:
a. Continue to seek alternate sources of revenue. This should include pursuing grant
opportunities, other funding sources, and other creative ways to avoid increases in
expenditures.
b. Support strategic commercial and industrial development.
c. Continually evaluate the cost and effectiveness of existing public services.

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d. Promote enhanced, consistent communication about the budget and budget process
that is responsive to public inquiries. This includes the use of consistent tools and
methodology in the budget preparation.

Goal 8.4 Evaluate, modernize and maintain a user-focused Town information
process to support the timely and well-planned use of technology to benefit the
Town’s management and governance.
Policy/Strategy
8.4.1 Continue the Town’s ongoing information system and process upgrades to
provide an efficient, transparent, easy to access and useful framework for Town
governance, processes, requests and business.
Actions:
a. Evaluate the present systems (eCode360 etc.) used to support the Town’s activities
and identify key areas for improvement for the next decade.
b. Promote a focus on the implementation of the next generation of adequate supporting
technologies, including structure, organization and accessibility for:
i.
The Town Charter, Administrative Legislation and General Legislation
ii. Town Zoning regulations,
iii. Town financial planning and management,
iv.
Town Board and Commission management and communication and
v.
other similar areas

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Future Land Use Plan

Low Density Residential

Business Zones

Water Courses

Moderate Density Residential

Municipal Land

Natural Resource Constraints

High Density Residential

Possible Housing Opportunity Area

Granby Center Area

Limit of Possible Sewer Service Area

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Open Space

Sanitary Sewer System Plan
In accordance with Connecticut State Statute §8-23, any municipal plan of conservation and
development shall identify the general location and extent of areas served by existing sewer
systems, areas where such systems are planned, and areas where sewers are to be avoided. The
location and description of the system is outlined in an earlier section of this Plan. Below is
information that addresses the other requirements.
As noted throughout this Plan, Granby will remain a very low density, open space and agricultural
community. This is primarily due to the historic land use development patterns, the Town’s
abundance of permanently preserved open space and to the significant areas of undevelopable land.
This is one of many reasons why the Plan recommends focusing on future development and
revitalization within Granby Center and within areas where public sewer and public water exists
and where such lines are expected to be extended. In the past years as public water and sewer lines
were improved and expanded throughout the center and the southeastern portion of town, a variety
of higher density residential developments were approved and constructed along with commercial
developments. These developments have found success and helped to diversify the town’s housing
and commercial base. This Plan recommends that the Town continue to diversify its commercial
and housing development permitting residential and commercial developments where public water
and sewer exist. The Plan anticipates extending the existing sewer lines where such extensions will
encourage increased housing opportunities, new commercial use or provide for commercial
expansion.
The Sewer Service area should be expanded to include properties located at 90 Salmon Brook
Street and 35 Floydville Road. Including these areas within the sewer service area is consistent
with the Town’s Plans for Development dating back to at least Granby’s 1963 Pilot Pan of
Development. It is also consistent with the 1980 extension of the sewer line, the Regional Plan of
Conservation and Development and the Connecticut Conservation and Development Policies Plan,
dated 2013 -2024. While these properties may be used for a large-scale solar project, the Town
seeks to see some of the land reserved for future development. Therefore, until any potential plans
are finalized, these properties should be considered for inclusion in the sewer service area. Future
development of this area will be more compatible with the Town, Regional and State development
plans and more beneficial to the Town and the region if such development has access to public
sewer. The Town is also currently in discussion with an interested party in the redevelopment of
the Kearns School property for housing. Consideration should be given to include this property in
the sewer service area. Another area for consideration is Hartford Avenue east of Bank Street.
While this area is currently within the existing Sewer Service area, the expansion of sewers from
Bank Street to the east should be considered as it is within the Granby Center area and additional
development can be supported. Refer to the Proposed Sewer Service Area Map in Figure 34 on the
following page.
Currently the Sewer Service Area permits the extension of sewer lines north of Muriel Drive, along
State Route 189 and northwest along Kelly Lane to the Kelly Lane School. This area is fully
developed, with no history of excessive septic failures. The soils along this route are moderate to
excellent and residential lots are compliant with Zoning and sized to accommodate septic repairs.
As of the adoption of the 2016 Plan, the Kelly Lane School had recently installed a septic system
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and there is no indication that such system cannot be maintained into the distant future. To service
the school the existing sewer line would need to be extend over 4000 feet, while providing little
benefit to the adjacent area. Therefore, it is recommended that this area be studied further to
determine if the area north of Crest Drive should be removed from the Sewer Service area (see
Figure 34 below).
Figure 34: Proposed Sewer Service Area

Remove Area north
of Crest Drive

Add Kearns School
Property
Add 90 Salmon
Brook Street &
35 Floydville Road

\
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This Plan recommends that sewer lines not be extended outside of the areas outlined above in
Sanitary Sewer Lines. As noted throughout, this plan recommends that the Town remain
predominantly a low density residential, open space, agricultural, recreational community. As
such, there is no need to extend sewers beyond those areas noted above. The vast majority of
developed Granby properties have private wells and septic systems which function without
concern. Such systems support ground water recharge and can function for many years into the
future. The residential density provided in the zoning regulations, outside of the Sewer Service
Area, is consistent with the soil types necessary for the installation of septic systems to support the
zoned development.

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Consistency with State and
Regional Plans

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State of Connecticut Growth Management Principles
Connecticut State Statute §8-23 requires a municipality to consider the State and Regional Plans
of Conservation and Development while developing its Plan. The municipal Plan must also address
any inconsistencies with the growth management principles outlined in Connecticut State Statute.
In accordance with this requirement, the following is noted:

Principle 1: Redevelop and revitalize commercial centers and areas of mixed-land
uses with existing or planned physical infrastructure.
Granby’s infrastructure is concentrated in the Granby Center area and along Salmon Brook Street
extending south to the Granby/Simsbury town line. This Plan recommends promoting housing,
commercial, and mixed-use opportunities in these areas and examining infrastructure
improvements that are needed to support these uses.

Principle 2: Expand housing opportunities and design choices to accommodate a
variety of household types and needs.
This Plan identifies a need to increase housing options so that both an aging population and
younger residents can live in Granby. Affordability is also identified as a concern, for both buyers
are renters. This Plan seeks to identify areas in Granby that are appropriate for additional housing,
including areas supported by infrastructure and other areas where such development is appropriate.

Principle 3: Concentrate development around transportation nodes and along major
transportation corridors to support the viability of transportation options and land
reuse.
As outlined in this Plan, several major State Routes traverse Granby, converging in Granby Center.
Bus service is also provided in this area, extending south to the Granby/Simsbury town line. This
Plan highlights this area as suitable and appropriate for commercial, residential, and mixed-use
development.

Principle 4: Conserve and restore the natural environment, cultural and historical
resources and existing farmlands.
Open spaces, agricultural lands, and the natural environment are defining characteristics of
Granby. This Plan strives to balance the protection and preservation of these with a need for
development opportunities.

Principle 5: Protect environmental assets critical to public health and safety.
This Plan recommends protecting natural resources, such as watersheds, wetland resource areas,
and critical habitats. In addition, this Plan recommends low-impact design strategies.

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Principle 6: Integrate planning across all levels of government to address issues on
a local, regional and state-wide basis
This Plan will be used to coordinate efforts with adjacent municipalities, regional organizations,
and state agencies.

Regional Plan of Conservation and Development
The Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG), of which Granby is a member, adopted
its Regional POCD in November 2024. CRCOG’s POCD addresses regional conditions and trends;
outlines vision, themes, goals and strategies, and contains a land use policy map. Granby’s POCD
is consistent with the Regional POCD, specifically overall Granby’s POCD identifies that areas
with infrastructure, including Granby Center and south to the Simsbury Town Line, may be
suitable for development while areas beyond this should have lower density development patterns
and conservation/preservation efforts should be directed here. Refer to the Land Use Policy Map
from CRCOG’s Regional POCD below:
Figure 34: CRCOG Land Use Policy Map

Source: CRCOG 2024 Plan of Conservation and Development
i

Connecticut State Data Center, Connecticut Town Population Projections, 2015-2040,
https://data.ct.gov/Government/Connecticut-Town-Population-Projections-2015-2040/p6hp-fnp7/about_data.
ii
Town of Granby, Assessor Vision Database.
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Appendix: Implementation
Schedule

Page 85 of 85

Environment
Protect our water resources, including groundwater, wetlands, watercourses and watersheds.
Task

Reduce and improve quality of stormwater runoff.

1

The Town has adopted numerous Zoning and Subdivision Regulation amendments that promote Low Impact Development
(LID). However, the Town’s regulations, ordinances and general practices must be regularly reviewed to assure that the Town
is in compliance with the recommendations and requirements of the State DEEP and the State General Permit Requirements
for the Discharge of Stormwater from Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems.

2

Update as necessary the Town’s Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance which establishes minimum standards and
promotes best management practices to limit erosion and sedimentation.

Task

Preserve floodplains.

1

Promote passive recreation for floodplain areas while prohibiting new development within the floodplain.

2

Continue to review the Special Flood Hazard Area Zoning Regulations for consistency with the Federal Emergency
Management Administration Guidelines and the regulations of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental
Protection.

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Preserve, manage, and maintain our forest land and native vegetation.
Task

Conserve and enhance forest land and native vegetation and promote biodiversity.

1

Support and promote the town arboretum (Holcomb Farm Tree Trail).

2

Promote and create wildlife habitat and corridors in an effort to protect fish and wildlife by coordinating with other
entities/organizations as needed.

3

Utilize the Natural Diversity Database when reviewing land use applications.

4

Continue to use the Farmington Valley Biodiveristy Project’s Conservation Area Map and associated databases in the
Planning and Zoning and IWWC land use review process and where appropriate, make regulatory changes to promote
biodiversity.

5

Review the Connecticut’s most current Wildlife Action Plan and determine if any regulatory actions are needed to support the
effort.

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Balance development with the preservation and protection of natural resources.
Task

Minimize the impact of development on the natural environment

1

Establish standards to minimize light pollution and promote dark sky initiatives.

2

Consider the adoption of regulations for the preservation of Granby’s ridgelines and traprock ridges to minimize the visual
impact of homes or other structures, including solar, roads and other infrastructure on the surrounding landscape without
breaking the natural contours of the ridgeline.

3

Assess noise pollution and recommend ways to minimize noise pollution if it is determined to be a concern.

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Promote education and pursue sustainability initiatives to reduce environmental impacts.
Task

Promote and encourage Commissioners and residents to participate in educational programs and training
opportunities and conservation projects.

1

Continue the Conservation Commission’s conversation series to educate homeowners about the importance of reducing their
individual impact on water quality by minimizing the use of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides; maintaining septic systems;
properly disposing of cleaning products and automotive oil and grease; the importance of wetland resource areas and buffers;
and about animal and human interactions.

2

Encourage the construction of rain gardens where appropriate to treat and minimize stormwater runoff.

3

Encourage members of the Conservation Commission and others to complete the DEEP Master Wildlife Training Program.

4

Educate and encourage residents to participate in forest management plans.

Task

Assess Town facilities and explore sustainability initiatives.

1

Assess and evaluate renewable energy options for town facilities.

2

Examine and assess ways to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions for town facilities and vehicles. This should
include planning for energy efficiency and cost savings as equipment is replaced.

3

Promote waste reduction and recycling, including electronic disposal, clothing donation, textile recycling, composting, and
hazardous waste reduction.

4

Promote water conservation, such as rain harvesting, stormwater management, etc.

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Open Space and Recreation
Preserve future open space areas to maintain the character of Granby.
Task

Identify areas to preserve that connect existing permanently preserved parcels, preserve wildlife corridors, provide
hiking or other passive recreational activities, or preserve agricultural land.

1

Update the open space plan and town-owned land. Use this plan when making land use and acquisition decisions.

2

Utilize wetlands, streams, and floodplains as open space linkages.

Task

Develop methods to both increase funding for and ways to encourage the preservation of strategic undeveloped
properties or areas.

1

Recommend an annual Town budgeted contribution to the open space fund to assure the availability and immediate access to
funds as needed.

2

Continue to either require the dedication of open space or fee-in-lieu of open space with all subdivision applications, placing
an emphasis on those areas that can link existing open space parcels. Where no beneficial land areas are included within the
land proposed for development, require payment of a fee-in-lieu.

3

Encourage Flexible Residential Development* particularly where larger areas of open space will benefit the community and
where the open space will be adjacent to existing open properties, this should include an assessment if FRD should be allowed
in all residential zones.

4

Prioritize conservation easements over areas where public access is not anticipated and where the goal is primarily the
preservation of flora, fauna, and environmental features.

5

Maintain the Town’s favorable tax policies to protect open space land area and periodically audit PA-490.

6

Evaluate other funding courses for the support and acquisition of open space.

Task

Enhance communication, dialogue, and coordination with preservation groups about open space acquisition and
preservation.

1

Evaluate the open space fund. This fund can be used to assist the Granby Land Trust or other groups in acquiring open space
areas, or to supplement the State’s purchase of development rights program. This fund could also be available for matching
funds with state and federal open space acquisition program grants.

2

Collaborate with the Granby Land Trust, McLean Game Refuge, and Farmington River Watershed Association on
conservation and preservation efforts, including planned acquisitions.

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Promote, encourage, and provide for a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities.
Task

Expand and promote the use of Town parks and other properties for uses beyond organized sports.

1

Consider providing outdoor recreational activities on 107 East Street and Holcomb Farm.

2

Designate wildlife or scenic viewing areas.

3

Maintain the Holcomb Farm as open space, for community, educational, recreational, and agricultural activities.

4

Evaluate open space areas and determine maintenance requirements, if needed, and plan for the maintenance and management
of open space areas.

Task

Preserve, maintain, create and extend hiking, biking, and horse trails.

1

Consider the acquisition of easements over existing trails, particularly where such trails may be threatened by the future sale
of property.

2

Coordinate efforts to create a comprehensive trail map and trail system. This should include the creation and regular update of
a Town trail map and enhancement of the Holcomb Farm trails.

Task

Ensure that open space is accessible and meets user needs.

1

Consider the provision of parking areas when planning for open space.

2

Plan for multi-use trails and ADA accessibility.

3

Designate some areas of open space properties as pet-friendly areas.

4

Design and utilize throughout Town a specific post or sign, which identifies preserved areas of open space

Agriculture

Encourage the preservation of new and existing farmlands, existing farm operations, agricultural soils, and farm architecture.
Task

Develop and consider methods to alleviate economic pressures which force land into development.

1

Encourage the permanent preservation of farmland through the State of Connecticut development rights purchase program,
through the activities of the Granby Land Trust, and through Town purchase of development rights.

2

Continue that Town’s favorable tax policies to protect farmland (PA-490).

3

Consider the adoption of a farm property abatement ordinance as outlined in CGS 12-81m. Such an ordinance would allow for
the abatement of up to 50 percent of property taxes of a dairy farm, fruit farm, vegetable, nursery or similar farm.

Task

Review and modify regulations as necessary to support farm operations and to preserve farmland.

1

Undertake a comprehensive review of the Zoning Regulations Section 8.15 Agriculture, including Farm Stores, Limited Farm
Store and Agritourism, and identify changes that may be needed that will support farms, allowing diversification of farming
operations and minimizing potential conflicts with surrounding areas.

2

When reviewing subdivision applications and the open space requirement, consider acquiring prime or important agricultural
land that could be utilized for agricultural purposes.

3

Educate and communicate information about state regulations, including Connecticut’s Right to Farm Law, that support farm
operations.

Task

Collaborate to support the preservation of historic farm structures.

1

The great variety and number of old barns are an important part of Granby’s agricultural heritage. Consider supporting and
assisting where feasible the Salmon Brook Historic Society in an effort to establish a process or a fund to help with the repair
and maintenance of such barns.

Task

Encourage farming practices that are consistent with preserving environmental resources and can respond to the
changing climate.

1

Collaborate with, and refer farmers to, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Connecticut Department of Agriculture,
University of Connecticut Agriculture Extension, and other entities, to implement BMPs. Agricultural Best Management
Practices (BMPs) are practical cost-effective actions that agricultural producers can take to reduce the amount of pesticides,
fertilizers, animal waste, and other pollutants entering our water resources and to conserve water supply.

2

Educate residents, farmers, and developers about integrated pest management programs to reduce the negative impacts of
pesticides and herbicides.

3

Study how much food is annually produced locally, how it is marketed, when it is harvested, and the primary concerns
regarding overall crop production, with an emphasis on crops that will serve the local population, including farm to table
where appropriate.

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Promote sustainable farming practices and methods.

Utilize Town property where appropriate for agricultural activities.

Task

Maintain and preserve Holcomb Farm for agricultural purposes in addition to its open space, social, education and
recreational activities.

1

Regularly review the farm management for assurance that the farm operation is managed in the most efficient, productive,
economic and environmentally sustainable manner.

2

Continually review and consider how Holcomb Farm crops might best serve Granby and the region, including how it can
produce fresh produce for the elderly and those of less economic means.

3

Continue to use the farm for agriculture and seek opportunities for expansion.

Task

Inventory town property to identify areas with primary farmland soils and those most suitable for continued and
future agricultural activities.

1

The Town’s community gardens offer an ideal opportunity for residents to share in the experience of growing their own food.
The Town should expand the gardens as the need arises.

2

The Town should continue to lease town-owned properties to farmers, including the East Street farm, farmland along Barn
Door Hills Road, and properties on Loomis Street.

3

Survey other existing town-owned properties to identify other properties that might be used for agricultural purposes and to
support the local agricultural community.

4

Engage the Agricultural Commission to play an important advisory role on the use of Town properties for agriculture.

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Transportation
Support and encourage modes of transportation other than the motor vehicle.
Task

Seek ways to support and enhance bus service, particularly regarding access and improvements to public
transportation.

1

Continue to participate in the Greater Hartford Transit District, which will allow access to grants.

2

Examine the CTTransit bus route in Granby, including bus stop location(s), park-and-ride lot, and route timing, and consider
recommendations to encourage the use of public transportation, particularly in and around Granby Center.

3

Study the success of the senior van program. Following this lead, consider additional programs to promote shared trips for
seniors as well as the youth population.

Task

Increase and enhance pedestrian and bicycle facilities.

1

Consider bike lanes, paths, sharrows, and other bicycle facilities throughout Granby, including establishing east/west
connections.

2

Require the construction of sidewalks for commercial and residential developments to increase connectivity.

3

Provide for the construction of sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and bike paths, particularly in and around Granby Center as
outlined in the Granby Center Study. Seek to connect these facilities to traffic generators, such as commercial and residential
developments and town facilities, and to existing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, including the Farmington Valley Canal
Heritage Trail.

4

Provide for the construction of sidewalks along Salmon Brook Street to connect Salmon Brook Park to the bike path along
Floydville Road; within proximity to the schools; and other areas to enhance pedestrian safety.

5

Encourage developments and town properties to include pedestrian and bicycle amenities, such as bike racks, benches, etc.

Provide for the safety of residents through proper street maintenance and design of roadways and intersections.
Task

List, prioritize and improve problem intersections.

1

Define a process to develop a list of intersections which are deficient in safety and/or design and prepare a plan for their
improvement. Any such list should include but is not limited to: Simsbury Road/Route 20; Bushy Hill Road/Route 20; Day
Street/Route 189; Mechanicsville Road/Route 189 and Route 10; Meadowbrook Road/Route 10; Case Street/Route 219; and
Wells Road/Route 189/Route 20.

2

Relocate, re-design or eliminate the Hungary Road/Route 20 intersection.

3

Clear vegetation, regrade and continually maintain the sight lines at intersections and consider other mechanisms, such as
roundabouts, to improve safety.

4

Monitor the Granby Center intersection improvement project and make recommendations to the Connecticut Department of
Transportation as necessary.

Task

Encourage the maintenance and design of roads based on traffic engineering principles and with regard to the overall
goals of this POCD and our fundamental values.

1

When roads are reconstructed/repaved, consideration should be given to provide adequate shoulders to accommodate the safe
passing of vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles.

2

Continue to review and participate in regional long-range roadway and traffic plans for Granby.

3

Provide for the careful placement of curb cuts along collector and arterial roads and seek to limit the number of curb cuts
along all roadways.

4

Encourage street design that complements residential neighborhoods and include traffic calming mechanisms to reduce
vehicular traffic volume and speed of vehicles.

5

Consider other mechanisms to address vehicle speed concerns.

6

Continue to support the road paving and reconstruction program.

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Encourage a connected transportation network.
Task

Require connections between developments, including provisions for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists

1

Minimize the construction of new cul-de-sac roads when feasible except where they are designed as a private drive.

2

Require rights of way in various locations along proposed streets to accommodate connections to future or planned
developments, open space, and other properties.

3

Develop a system of central parking areas and user-friendly sidewalks that include landscaping and benches to encourage
pedestrian traffic and reduce vehicular movements.

Commercial and Industrial Development

Provide opportunities for new commercial and industrial development to broaden the tax base, increase employment opportunities, and
increase the availability of local commercial goods and services.
Task

Review regulations and infrastructure needs and identify opportunities for changes to encourage commercial and
industrial development.

1

Prepare a list of commercial uses, products, and services that are presently unavailable within the Town and review the zoning
regulations to determine if barriers exist that would prevent the establishment of such uses. This should also be responsive to
and reflect anticipated changes in the commercial and industrial marketplaces.

2

Review the T1 and ED Zones and consider amendments to allow greater opportunities for commercial, mixed use, and
multifamily developments.

3

Review the zoning regulations and provide greater opportunities for mixed use developments in appropriate areas.

4

Identify areas that may be appropriate for low intensity commercial or light industrial uses that can serve as a transition
between commercial and residential developments.

5

Improvements to infrastructure will increase opportunities for new, expanded, and improved commercial development.
Consider improvements and extensions where such infrastructure (sewer, water, gas) will encourage new commercial uses or
will support commercial expansion.

Task

Enhance communication with local business owners and the Chamber of Commerce to better support Granby
businesses.

1

Engage with local business owners and commercial property owners to discuss programs or opportunities the Town can
pursue to address challenges in maintaining or improving a business or commercial property in Town, including regulatory
change(s), infrastructure improvement(s), etc.

2

Partner with local businesses and the Chamber of Commerce to coordinate community events in Granby.

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Establish and maintain standards to encourage cohesive commercial development that is of an appropriate scale and relation to its
surroundings.
Task

Encourage the appropriate scale and design of development within the various zones by reviewing and amending the
zoning regulations as necessary.

1

Avoid the construction of small scale, individual commercial and strip developments by placing size limits on new or
modified commercial buildings, encouraging shared parking, limiting curb cuts, and ensuring site design is appropriate to the
surrounding context, this should include buffers as needed.

2

Consider amendments to the zoning regulations that require specific architectural guidelines to be used in the design of
commercial buildings, as appropriate for the zone and area where such buildings are proposed. As part of this, consideration
should be given to the entity responsible for the implementation and application of these guidelines.

Housing

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Provide housing opportunities to support current and future residents.
Task

Support the increase of housing opportunities in Granby Center and in areas that may be served by public
infrastructure, primarily water and sewer.

1

Review the recommendations from the Granby Center Study and update the Zoning Regulations related to density, coverage,
height, parking, minimum lot size, landscaping requirements, buffers, and architectural design standards, to encourage highquality housing development in Granby Center that is of suitable scale. In this process, consideration and attention shall also
be given to the historic properties and historic overlay zone to maintain and enhance the historic resources in the area.

2

Review the Zoning Regulations in other areas that may be served by public infrastructure to determine changes that may be
needed to support housing. This should include regulations related to density, coverage, height, parking, minimum lot size,
landscaping requirements, buffers, architectural design standards, and others as applicable.

3

Consider a Zoning Regulation amendment that permits a mix of housing and commercial uses as appropriate in different
areas.

4

Consider a Zoning Regulation amendment which would allow the construction of two-family structures or a mix of one- and
two-family structures in areas served by public infrastructure or in areas where soils can support this.

Task

Explore and encourage housing opportunities for older residents.

1

Pursue the redevelopment of the Kearns School property for senior housing and inventory other town land that may be suitable
for housing.

2

Encourage the construction of active adult, elderly housing, and assisting living facilities. This may include consideration of a
Zoning Regulation amendment related to accessory apartments, density bonus, a simplified approval process for senior
housing, or other mechanisms.

3

Maintain a list of senior housing developments in Granby and contact information to provide to residents.

Task

Support affordable housing opportunities and housing for younger residents seeking to move to or to stay in Granby.

1

Pursue workforce housing and inventory town land that may be suitable for housing.

2

Consider mechanisms including inclusionary zoning requirements, density bonuses, simplified approval process for affordable
housing, and others as appropriate.

3

Explore ways to support the existing affordable housing developments in Granby, including investigating grant opportunities
and other collaboration and support when appropriate.

4

Maintain a list of existing affordable housing developments in Granby and contact information to provide to residents.

5

Monitor the recent changes to the accessory apartment regulation and determine if further changes are needed, including the
allowable size, occupancy requirements, and approval process for attached and detached structures, or other provisions.

6

Consider a change to the zoning regulations that will allow single-family housing on smaller lots where infrastructure will
support such density.

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Task

Ensure traditional housing development patterns are sustainable and sensitive to the surrounding area.

1

Continue to promote the use of the Flexible Residential Development, to cluster houses where appropriate and to preserve
open space and agricultural land.

2

Encourage the construction of housing that utilizes alternative energy sources and is designed for energy conservation.

3

Discourage high density land uses in rural areas where existing and proposed infrastructure is inadequate and where such
development is inconsistent with sustainability principles.

4

Review the Zoning Regulations for permitted housing types, lot size, and density within the residential districts.

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Encourage the upkeep and maintenance of Granby’s existing housing stock.
Task

Seek to provide mechanisms to support property maintenance.

1

Continue the Housing Rehabilitation Program and seek and promote other state and federal sources of home improvement
funds.

2

Collaborate with other entities to address property maintenance issues and concerns.

3

Educate residents as necessary on the importance of long term and consistent home maintenance.

4

Encourage the renovation, restoration, maintenance, and preservation of older homes with special attention to the architectural
integrity of the exterior.

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Granby Center
Develop and re-develop the Center as a dynamic area that fosters connectivity and supports a diverse mix of uses.
Task

Review regulations and identify opportunities for mixed-use developments, housing, and diversified commercial
opportunities in appropriate areas.

1

Review the Granby Center Study and consider the adoption of the proposed new Granby Center Zone. This includes proposed
permitted and Special Permit uses; the area and bulk standards; and parking requirements within this Zone.

2

Review the Center Commons and Center Edge Zones and identify changes to the zone boundaries and uses in these Zones.

3

Inventory undeveloped and underdeveloped areas within the Center. Analyze the possibilities for future development and
determine changes to the regulations that may be needed to facilitate future uses. Also assess the suitability of connecting
these sites to public water and public sewer.

Task

Assess existing infrastructure and determine needed improvements and/or expansions to better support the Center.

1

Discuss water service with the Salmon Brook District Water to better understand their system capacity and any planned
changes in Granby Center.

2

Engage Connecticut Natural Gas to determine needed improvements to the system to increase and enhance service to Granby
Center.

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3

Continue to monitor wastewater flows and determine improvements that may be needed to the sewer system based on
projected needs in Granby Center.

Task

Promote a well-connected Center area.

1

Improve pedestrian access by extending existing sidewalks and establishing crosswalks where necessary. This includes filling
in sidewalk gaps within the Center and also linking adjacent residential areas and other properties to the Center with
sidewalks.

2

Modify the Zoning Regulations to require connections and linkages between Granby Center developments.

3

Assess and determine a bicycle/pedestrian connection to the Farmington Valley Greenway to the southeast along Route 189.

4

Assess parking needs and evaluate opportunities for shared parking if needed.

5

Explore the potential to extend Merchants Way as outlined in the Granby Center Study.

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Establish and maintain standards to ensure a cohesive Center area.
Task

Promote streetscape improvements.

1

Add additional street and business lighting to enhance nighttime activity as appropriate.

2

Assess the Bank Street recommended improvements as outlined in the Granby Center Study and facilitate the implementation
of such improvements.

3

Evaluate the existing streetscape throughout the Center and assess opportunities for tree planting, the installation of other
planters, benches, and other minor improvements within the right of way.

4

Assess the installation of wayfinding signs and sign/banner attachments to street lights to help identify the Center area.

5

Review and update the sign regulations to ensure coordinated, complementary signage throughout the Center in conjunction
with architectural design guidelines.

Task

Review and recommend improvements to the Town Green, both design and function.

1

Review the conceptual Town Green design plan in the Granby Center Study and use this as a starting point for the
development of a detailed plan for the Town Green area, this includes the recommendation to reclaim a portion of Park Place
to expand the Town Green.

2

Assess potential uses of the Town Green and ensure the proposed design would facilitate these uses.

Task

Develop and implement design guidelines for Center properties.

1

Determine desirable building and site elements to promote in the development or redevelopment of properties so that projects
harmonize with current and future developments. Update the Granby Center zoning regulations to incorporate these desirable
elements.

2

Assess the Granby Center Historic Overlay District and determine if specific guidelines or other regulatory tools should be
pursued for these properties.

3

Explore the creation of a Local Historic District for the Granby Center Historic Overlay District properties.

Municipal Operations and Utility Infrastructure
Maintain and enhance community facilities and services.
Task

Ensure that community facilities are maintained and enhance those that are aging or in need of renovation to better
serve residents.

1

Review the recently completed study of Salmon Brook Park and Ahrens Park and use this as a guide for future improvements
and renovations.

2

Continue the library phased renovation and planning project efforts.

3

Review other town facilities, including the schools, and identify improvements that may be needed to continue to meet the
needs of residents.

4

Adopt, maintain, and follow the capital improvement plan and ensure such plan reflects and prioritizes the improvements that
will be needed to town facilities.

5

Identify and consider the acquisition or sale of strategic properties where such acquisitions or sale can benefit the community.

Task

Assess community services and seek to ensure that they are meeting the needs of current and future residents.

1

Review changing demographics and assess and adjust administrative costs and community services as needed, particularly
regarding the aging of the population and youth services.

2

Seek opportunities to combine, complement, or share services with other communities to reduce costs and maximize benefit.

3

Explore opportunities to share services and to improve communication among various Town departments and schools.

4

Maintain and support our high quality of public education.

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Ensure that the utility infrastructure matches the needs of the community.
Task Assess existing infrastructure and ensure that it is of sufficient capacity and design to meet current and future needs.
1

Promote the extension of water lines along the southern portion of Salmon Brook Street and Floydville Road.

2

Coordinate with Aquarion Water Company and Salmon Brook District Water to understand current and planned
improvements.

3

Review the wastewater flow study that was completed and assess and plan for upgrades to the sewer system to support current
and future needs.

4

Modify the existing sewer service area map, allowing for an expansion of the sewer service area along Salmon Brook Street
and north and south of Floydville Road, and eliminating areas north of Crest Road, along North Granby Road.

5

Consult with Connecticut Natural Gas regarding the gas system and encourage and support changes that may be needed to
increase capacity and support potential expansions if needed.

6

Encourage the development of strategies to keep up to date on changing technology and trends.

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7

Review and coordinate with providers of electric and telecommunications services to support enhancements to the system as
may be needed.

Enhance and maintain a transparent and carefully planned budgeting process.
Task

Continue the Town’s long-range financial planning efforts, pursue innovative funding opportunities, and maintain a
stable and predictable tax rate, recognizing the overall economic impact of any proposed property tax increase.

1

Continue to seek alternate sources of revenue. This should include pursuing grant opportunities, other funding sources, and
other creative ways to avoid increases in expenditures.

2

Support strategic commercial and industrial development.

3

Continually evaluate the cost and effectiveness of existing public services.

4

Promote enhanced, consistent communication about the budget and budget process that is responsive to public inquiries. This
includes the use of consistent tools and methodology in the budget preparation.

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