Bristol Presents Plans to Redesign Busy Intersection

Plans are underway to redesign a Bristol intersection that's been deemed unsafe, but it would mean knocking down buildings and forcing out homeowners.

Community members discussed the possibility at a public meeting Tuesday night, where town officials displayed renderings of the new intersection where Route 69 meets Route 72.

The plan is to take out buildings along West Street and run Route 72 straight through.

"I own property down the street here and I want to see it all get cleaned up, get this town going again," said Bristol resident Gary Grezeika.

Neighbors said the forked intersection of Route 72 and Divinity Street poses problems for more than just traffic.

A man was shot in the area several times late one night in January, and those who work in the area said they hope the city does away with the buildings and bars across the street.

"Blame it on the alcohol," said Bristol resident Bilal Qatabi. "Hopefully they get the 72 straight. People will go to work and come home."

The state Department of Transportation estimates the project would carry an $8 million price tag.

Homeowners whose houses are affected would be paid market value and officials said the city would fund the cost of relocation.

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