Progress made by Friends of Ruggles Landing

NORTH CANAAN — Plans for a public access site on the Housatonic River in North Canaan are moving closer to reality.

Selectman Jesse Bunce, who is also president of the Friends of Ruggles Landing group, provided an update on recent progress at the Board of Selectmen meeting Tuesday, Sept. 2.

Recent progress includes formation of a board, bank account and certificate of incorporation. The bank account allows for receipt of $10,000 annually from the Housatonic River Commission.

“The state is eager to make progress on this site. They’re going to pay for the demolition of the old Masonic lodge, restructuring the road, picnic tables and automatic gate as well as a boat launch for future activities,” said Bunce.

Later in September, the boy scouts plan to paddle on the Housatonic River via access from Ruggles Landing.

“The Troop’s really psyched up about doing this,” said Scoutmaster Walter Deane. “I think it’s a great thing for the scouts to get involved. The paddling merit badge, the kayak merit badge later on, there’s a lot that can be added in from the scouting point of view.”

Located off Route 44, Ruggles Landing would be North Canaan’s only public access point to the river.

Trooper on leave

North Canaan Resident Trooper Spencer Bronson is on medical leave.

At the Sept. 2 meeting, Selectman Craig Whiting said the reason and duration of the leave are unknown, but the town retains access to a state trooper through Troop B.

“The area is still covered,” said Whiting.

Emails sent to residenttrooper@northcanaan.org should receive responses.