Connecticut Bill Removes Possibility Of State Land Takeover Near Transit Stations

HARTFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork) -- A bill that would have given the state of Connecticut the power to take over private land near bus and train stations has been revised.

The revamped legislation strips the proposed state authority from being able to seize land through eminent domain and dictate what could be built there, WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau reported.

Local lawmakers, especially in Fairfield County, cried out loudly in opposition to the idea of the state overstepping home rule and erecting buildings that might conflict with local planning and zoning.

State Rep. Gail Lavielle, R-Wilton said she is pleased that the transit authority will be stripped of its eminent domain powers, but she sees no need for any local oversight by the state.

"My concern is that they have created a quasi-public entity that has its own agenda, which it is still going to try to push in town," she said.

New language in the bill requires that the state authority respect home rule when planning any construction projects.