West Hartford School Addition Permit Approved By PZC

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Following last week's zoning board vote, a West Hartford elementary school will soon have a new addition to make the school safer and more modern.

The West Hartford Plan and Zoning Commission voted 5-0 on July 1 in favor of a special use permit for the Town of West Hartford to build a new 1,459-square-foot brick and glass addition to the main office/building entry area of Wolcott Elementary School, 71 Wolcott Road.

The purpose is to create a new, more secure entry area to the school building and its offices, according to a project narrative.

In addition, the permit also allows the school system to expand its parking area and reconfigure the school's driveway and exit way, part of a safety initiative.

It would also create a new, safer drop-off and pickup area for parents, according to the narrative, and expand on-site parking from 78 to 114 total spaces, including ADA-accessible spaces.

Also included would be new lighting for the parking area and a reworking of water drainage and catch basins to improve drainage.

The application, which was submitted to the PZC in the spring, was originally slated for approval in June, but the town requested an extension to July 1.

PZC approval was contingent on several standard conditions being met, namely proper erosion and sediment control measures; final plans being submitted to the town; and a return to the PZC in 2026 to ensure compliance with the permit.

For the minutes of the July 1 West Hartford Plan and Zoning Commission meeting, click on this link.

For the full project narrative of the Wolcott Elementary School addition, click on this link.

From May 17: 'Safety Improvements Mulled At West Hartford School'