EB JACKPOT
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – The U.S. Navy has awarded a $5 billion contract to General Dynamics’ Electric Boat to finish designing a new class of ballistic-missile submarines so construction can start. The Navy called the program its top priority because ballistic-missile submarines help deter nuclear war. An Electric Boat official says the award keeps the program on track. The award was announced Thursday.
MICHAEL’S DEMOLITION APPROVED
The New London Historic District Commission says they will not impede plans by Mitchell College to tear down and rebuild its iconic former dairy barn at Michaels Dairy. The commission made the ruling at its meeting on Wednesday. The college envisioned updating the existing barn into a student and community space with classrooms, a banquet hall, a black box theater and other amenities. An assessment uncovered major structural issues and halted those plans. New plans call for a demolition and complete rebuilding while duplicating the look of the old barn, located at 629 Montauk Ave. The commission’s decision was backed by local and state historic preservation groups, who recognized efforts of the college to save the iconic structure.
EDGERTON HOUSING APPROVED
The New London Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously Thursday to approve plans for a 72-unit, mixed-income housing development at the site of the long-vacant former Edgerton School property. A 124-unit affordable housing complex was rejected by the Planning and Zoning Commission about a year and a half ago and was appealed to Superior Court. A stipulated agreement was reached with the commission that opened the door for the scaled-back version of the plan. The project could start as early as next year.
INVASION NEVER HAPPENED
Stonington police Capt. Todd Olson said yesterday that a reported home invasion at a residence on Hewitt Road on Tuesday morning never happened. Olson said detectives determined that the alleged victim’s entire report was false. The woman was taken to Lawrence + Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Police have not identified her.
AQUARIUM GETS GRANT
Congressman Joe Courtney announced yesterday that Mystic Aquarium has received $150,000 in federal funds to develop a new Long Island Sound exhibit. The aquarium is expected to create an interactive, multimedia exhibit called “Connections to Long Island Sound.” The exhibit is designed to help educate aquarium visitors about the importance of the Sound and its watersheds.
NO DEAL
A former Norwich resident convicted of murder and manslaughter at a trial in 2014 has turned down an offer to plead guilty in exchange for a 40-year prison sentence. Chihan Eric Chyung admitted he shot his wife, Paige Anne Bennett, after the couple fought about expenses. Chyung claimed his Glock 9 mm discharged accidentally when he attempted to pack it in a suitcase and leave their Taftville home. He will be tried in Norwich and if convicted, could receive a maximum sentence of 60 years.
