U.S. Congressman Weighs in on Willington Gun Range

U.S. Representative Joe Courtney says he’s joining the fight to prevent a new State Police gun range from being set up in Willington.

On Thursday, he met with dozens of people who packed a room at the Willington Public Library.
State Police are looking to build a new firearms training facility to replace the current one in Simsbury which is riddled with problems.

Willington landed on a very short list for a new site for troopers.

“They’re facing new challenges and we want to make sure they’re trained and ready,” says Rep. Courtney.

Courtney says he’s heard the concerns from people in town which includes the range’s possible impact on noise and the environment.

His idea is for State Police to share the National Guard’s Rifle Range in East Haven.

He says this option is cheaper, easier, and could start almost immediately.

But so far state leaders in charge of the project have shot down the plan.

“Well I think there’s definitely a second look being taken at this,” says Rep. Courtney.

State police told us they’re still exploring all the alternatives.

Thursday’s meeting left many, who have been battling this idea for months, a little bit optimistic.

“It kind of elevates our levels of hope for our town,” says Maureen Parizeck, Willington.

“The more involvement and interest and knowledge about what’s going on we think it’s helpful,” says Diana Shain, Willington.

There was already talk of renting a bus to take people down to Hartford on February 2nd.
That’s when project leaders will explain the process before legislators.

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