Residents protest proposed downtown bypass; council urged to increase outreach

A steady stream of citizens urged the Weatherford City Council to pause and more fully discuss a proposed downtown mobility bypass that several speakers said would encroach on historic homes and neighborhoods.

Multiple speakers during the public‑comment period said the inner bypass option—which some residents said would route a three‑lane road through Cherry Park, West Columbia and other historic blocks—conflicts with the city's general‑plan principles to maintain existing neighborhoods. Robert Whitford, speaking for the South Side, asked the council to schedule a full agenda item with all stakeholders present. "I would like tonight to formally request ... that the proposed plan be brought forth up for discussion on the next meeting agenda, and all parties involved present to answer and respond to every question and concern we as citizens have," Whitford said.

Kenneth Penner of Spring Street said he fears noise and structural damage to old houses if the road goes through historic blocks. "We're disgusted that y'all really are thinking about tearing up our neighborhoods ... Come and visit the people," Penner said, urging more direct communication.

Several residents pressed for clearer outreach after the council's recent informational posts and a failed bond vote; Jim Clark said posting details on Facebook is insufficient for older residents who do not use social media. "Buried plans and city employees who say one thing to one group to appease and gain support ... should not be founded in this city," Clark said.

At the same time, some downtown business owners urged collaboration and said the plan aims to keep truck traffic off the square. Michelle, owner of Twisted Snifter, invited residents to meet and said rerouting heavy trucks to the loop would benefit downtown businesses. "We would never want to harm any of the historic district downtown," she said, but added that better communication is needed.

Council response and next steps: Councilmembers acknowledged the need for more outreach and asked staff to schedule community meetings in affected quadrants within the next two weeks. Councilmembers encouraged the formation of cross‑stakeholder groups to collaborate on alternatives and mitigation measures.