According to your own office’s estimate, each dollar of tax money spent on promoting tourism returns ten dollars in economic benefits to the citizens and businesses of Connecticut. I am concerned that this investment is in danger of becoming worthless because of unchecked development in one of Connecticut’s prime tourist areas.

Unchecked development, including the permitting of docks of inappropriate size, is a grave threat to the lower Connecticut River valley. In fact, one large dock is planned for the middle of the view from Gillette Castle – certainly one of the prime tourist destinations in the state, and one which is has already lost much of its appeal by the intrusion of clear-cut hillsides and oversize houses.

This short stretch of river, from Middletown to Old Saybrook, which is one of the centerpieces of tourism in the state, deserves special attention and protection.

I ask that your department use any influence you may have on State legislative and regulatory bodies to help protect the river valley from inappropriate development, and to preserve your investment. If this area is not protected now, there will be no second chances. The revival of the river from its former polluted state will have been in vain if it is allowed to be lost to unchecked private development.

Many Connecticut businesses depend on a healthy tourist trade for their very survival. This vital tourist trade will disappear if the river valley loses its natural beauty.

Thank you for your interest,

**Type your name here**
**Type your town here**

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