Connecticut Lawmaker Looks To Derail Proposal Allowing Eminent Domain Near Bus, Train Stations

WILTON, Conn. (CBSNewYork) -- A move by the state to take over private land near bus or train stations has locals worried.

Rep. Gail Lavielle, R-Wilton, stumbled upon Gov. Dannel Malloy's proposal to transfer all local authority regarding land near the stations to the state while she was going over the transportation budget with a fine-tooth comb, WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau reported.

"I think of people who own property within a half-mile of any rail and bus station in Connecticut, and those people will have the threat of eminent domain hanging over them for the rest of their lives," Lavielle said. "And if they want to sell their property, it will be very difficult."

Listen to Connecticut Lawmaker Rails Against Proposal Allowing Eminent Domain Near Bus, Train Stations

Lavielle wants the provision killed, also fearing it could allow the state to erect buildings that may be out of tune with local planning.

She said there's a groundswell building locally as town and city leaders learn more about the state's plan.

"It's just an outrage because our towns work so hard on their local planning and zoning issues and on plans of conservation and development," Lavielle said.

A spokesperson for Malloy insisted the legislation would require the state to abide by local zoning, adding that the state wants to work with towns and cities.