Residents Rally Against Proposed Townhomes Over Traffic and Infrastructure Concerns

Residents voiced significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding proposed zoning changes and new developments in the Hillandale area. The discussions highlighted potential traffic issues, infrastructure inadequacies, and environmental impacts stemming from the construction of new townhomes.

One resident pointed out that the first set of townhomes approved in 2019 at 375 Pasadena remains unfinished, raising questions about their impact on local traffic. The proposed addition of 11 new townhomes at 363 Pasadena, combined with existing developments, could exacerbate traffic on Eastway Drive, which is already considered narrow and dangerous. Concerns were raised about the need for traffic lights and speed bumps to manage the anticipated increase in vehicles.

Jennifer Bailey, a long-time resident, shared her experiences with persistent water problems in her area, attributing them to inadequate drainage systems and the presence of a natural spring. She warned that further development could worsen these issues, as existing infrastructure struggles to handle current demands. Bailey emphasized the need for thorough studies before approving any zoning changes.

John Hayes, representing the Hillandale Neighborhood Association, expressed cautious optimism about the development but urged for community input in planning. He highlighted the potential decrease in property values due to increased traffic and connectivity issues, suggesting that alternative road layouts could mitigate these concerns.

Eric Spangler raised additional worries about the capacity of the current sanitary and stormwater systems to handle the increased load from the proposed developments. He noted that significant stormwater runoff could impact local waterways and stressed the importance of understanding these environmental implications before proceeding.

Overall, the meeting underscored a community deeply invested in the future of their neighborhood, advocating for careful consideration of the proposed developments and their potential consequences on traffic, infrastructure, and the environment.