New elementary school plan sparks community safety concerns

The government meeting focused on the proposed site plan for the new Yellow Springs Elementary School, which aims to construct a 59,770 square foot facility along with associated play areas, fields, and parking lots on a 45.97-acre greenfield site. The applicant is seeking approval for the final site plan and a modification to the land management code regarding access management.

The site, currently undeveloped and zoned for institutional use, will feature two main access points: one from Spring Run Drive and another right-in, right-out access from Christopher's Crossing, specifically designed for bus traffic. The parking plan includes a main lot with 108 spaces and a secondary bus loop with 21 spaces, plus 15 designated for buses. A plaza will connect the two lots, ensuring emergency access if one route becomes blocked.

Community feedback has raised concerns about student safety and traffic congestion, particularly regarding the main access point on Spring Run Drive. Residents have suggested relocating this access to Christopher's Crossing. However, city engineers have advised against this due to the road's classification as an urban primary arterial, which could exacerbate traffic issues.

To address potential traffic increases, the applicant has proposed a new traffic circle at the intersection of Spring Run Drive and Walter Martz Road. A traffic study supporting this proposal was accepted by the city earlier this year. The school’s parking plan meets the required standards, providing 129 spaces, just below the maximum allowed, along with 52 bicycle parking spaces.

The applicant is also requesting a modification to the code that mandates multiple access points for parking lots exceeding 100 spaces. They argue that the current design, which includes a hardscape plaza for emergency access, meets the intent of the code while ensuring adequate accessibility.

Concerns were also raised regarding a proposed shared youth path adjacent to the school site, with the Frederick County Public Schools expressing safety worries about public access through school property. The path's construction will depend on future funding and design approvals.

The meeting concluded with staff recommendations supporting the modification request, emphasizing that the proposed design aligns with city policies aimed at ensuring adequate community facilities and managing growth effectively. The next steps will involve further evaluations and potential approvals as the project progresses.