Editor’s Note: Previously Woodstock Early Bird interviewed Al Sorrentino and wrote broadly of his intentions for the Alsup property at the East End of Woodstock Village. In response, he sends this letter of comment and clarification to the community. Mr. Sorrentino says he was worried about “clogging our blog” in posting this as a comment. We don’t think there’s such a thing as “over-blogging”! So, thanks, Al, for your letter! I know Early Birds appreciate it!
To my neighbors, a few points for clarification and some additional insight:
The contract to purchase the Alsup property is with Tanglewood Development Corporation of which I am principle, not ACS design/build Inc. The deal remains contingent on environmental studies now underway. Previous “phase one and two studies” have identified some minor issues which, at this time, do not appear to present insurmountable challenges. I remain hopeful no additional negative circumstances are identified by the ongoing investigation allowing the deal to move forward. I am optimistic it will.
The application for demolition referenced above was initiated by Mr. Alsup, well before Tanglewood Development Corporation committed to purchase the property. As I understand it, Mr. Alsup’s intention for submitting the application was not to raise all the structures, but to put an end to any speculation that potential historical designations may or may not be associated with the property and as a result, finally and unequivocally identify any implications, both impediments and/or advantages associated with a historic designation that could impact future development. Because of the new contract to purchase the property, my signature is now also required on the demolition application as a co-applicant.
I would like to take this opportunity to make clear, I currently have no definite plans, whatsoever, for the property. I committed to buying the land strictly relying on my intuition that there is finally enough momentum evidenced, by various integral community groups – and individuals, that something great can happen here. I want to be part of it; so I took the leap.
My current efforts are to finally and certifiably identify the real pollution issues, formulate and price a remediation plan, resolve pending historical constraints, impact favorable zoning changes, encourage the relocation of the snow dump with my vision for future uses and as resources are available, clean up the parcel – this will likely include removing the structures anyone would consider to have outlived their usefulness, but not all.
From a greater community perspective – The Alsup land and the Village “Snow Dump” land, located below it and along the river, is inextricably one. Sustainable Woodstock has done a commendable job in identifying what could happen at OUR riverfront land rather than a dump.
If their good work brings us nothing more than simple open public green space along the river, they have succeeded where generations before have not. Their extensive efforts are appreciated and without them, I would not be having a conversation about the Alsup property today. Along with the Village Snow Dump, the current stagnation and neglect, of this precious limited resource, is an affront to our community self-respect and dignity and has been so for far too long.
I am aware there are a few residents with the mindset that the status-quo is acceptable, because they believe change will affect their wallet – to them I suggest, you are shortsighted… The revenue generated with increased Village commerce and increased property value will benefit everyone. Meaning – YOUR INDIVIDUAL TAX BURDEN WILL BE DILUTED AND REDUCED (this includes the monies needed to relocate and operate the new dump). This is not to mention, establishing a place we can congregate, enjoy and be proud of – collectively.
Looking forward; if we don’t do what is responsible on our own, it will be only a matter of time before we are legally held responsible, by the state and federal agencies, for our irresponsible abuse of our local environment and specifically, polluting the waterway. Our hypocrisy should be an embarrassment to every Village resident, especially juxtaposed to the birthplace of environmental stewardship in our nation and our national park. One only needs to stand along the river in April, below the thirty foot mound of polluted black snow as its runoff enters the river, to realize this practice should not continue.
I diverge – but I can’t have the conversation about one parcel without considering the other; their boundaries exist only on paper…
At this time, I envision the Alsup cleanup to include removing the conspicuously dilapidated buildings, with an eye to reusing the primary structure, the gray clapboard, so called, Freight Building. This change will breathe new life into the east end and I am sure will add to the community sentiment that something good is coming. Imagine turning the corner at Maplefields someday and seeing across the river to Billings Farm, Mt. Tom and the hills of Pomfret; instead of the blight we have been forced to live with for decades! People have a tendency to block out what we don’t want to see – Next time you drive by please take notice – what a conspicuous invitation for something far better.
Other than that, I have no plans – only ideas. I just now am undertaking a process of inquiry that will shape the future of this almost unprecedented redevelopment opportunity in our historic Village. I can represent, unequivocally, as an almost thirty year resident and business owner, it will not be driven by goals inconsistent with the good of our Village; the home of my young family and friends, with whom I will be sharing this new place for the rest of my life and well after I’m gone. This endeavor will only flourish with the benefit of a positive consensus of the community.
Opportunities exist to develop housing, or more retail space, or both. But my vision is a little different than other concepts I have seen or heard contemplated at various times over what has regrettably become decades. In my mind I envision a reconnecting of the Village to the River and beyond, fostering vistas to the significant assets of Billings Farm and the National Park. This can be accomplished with two or perhaps 3 commercial – light industrial businesses that will complement the small shops of the Central Commercial District serving as both a counterpoint and anchor. I hope these businesses prove to be regional destinations drawing more people to our Village as well as serving local residents. They should produce good jobs and utilize local sustainable commodities; all of which benefits our entire community.
There you have it – I have never blogged before. So, I hope I haven’t over-blogged or clogged your blog or exercised any other poor internet etiquette I may not be aware of. But, come on people; let’s finally do something good for ourselves and those who come after us. The time has finally come – if not now, I fear never – This is one of those rare opportunities to enrich our lives, sustain our economy and please our senses that is rarely attainable.
Thanks for following my ramblings. I hope to see you and your family at a riverfront concert some summer night, potentially slurping a micro-brew with dinner while your kids drool over a locally produced ice cream cone… or something like that!
Julia Carlisle
Woodstock Early Bird 