Residents raise traffic safety concerns over proposed Dunkin' Donuts drive-thru on Maple Avenue

Concerns over traffic safety and environmental impact dominated the Middletown Township Board of Supervisors meeting on September 19, 2022, as residents voiced their opposition to a proposed Dunkin' Donuts drive-thru. The project, which aims to enhance the existing site, has sparked significant debate among local stakeholders, particularly regarding its implications for traffic flow on Maple Avenue.

During the meeting, civil engineer Adam Powell outlined the landscaping plans, emphasizing the addition of vegetation to buffer the site from nearby residential areas. However, residents expressed skepticism about the adequacy of these measures, citing existing traffic issues and the potential for increased accidents if the drive-thru is approved. One resident, Jerry Judson, raised alarms about the already congested road, stating that the drive-thru would exacerbate dangerous conditions.

Public comments highlighted a shared concern among residents about the safety of the intersection, with multiple speakers recounting personal experiences of difficulty exiting their driveways due to heavy traffic. Joyce Martindale, a local resident, described the area as a "bad corner" prone to accidents, while Donna Lorenz echoed these sentiments, urging the board to reconsider the drive-thru's location.

In response to the public's concerns, township officials clarified that notification procedures for the meeting adhered to legal requirements, although some residents felt they were not adequately informed. The board acknowledged the traffic implications discussed by their traffic engineer and expressed confidence in the proposed management plan.

As the meeting concluded, the board did not make an immediate decision, leaving the future of the Dunkin' Donuts drive-thru uncertain. The ongoing dialogue between township officials and residents underscores the importance of community input in local development projects, particularly those that could significantly impact traffic and safety.