During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the proposed roundabout in Northfield, with significant emphasis on safety and community impact. The village manager initially advocated for the roundabout as a means to enhance traffic flow and establish a sense of identity for the town. However, dissenting voices emerged from the steering committee, particularly from Steve Cummings, who shared his experiences in a letter due to his absence from the meeting.

Cummings, who leads a condo association near Hap Road, expressed frustration over being sidelined from the committee after questioning the roundabout's viability. He described the project as \"unconscionable,\" particularly highlighting the potential elimination of orchard parking, which could jeopardize local businesses.

Safety concerns dominated the discussion, with critics pointing out the complexities of navigating a five-legged roundabout, especially for drivers unfamiliar with the area. The potential for confusion among motorists, particularly those relying on navigation systems, was underscored. Critics argued that the design could distract drivers from noticing pedestrians, raising alarms about the safety of such a structure in a busy area.

Historical examples were cited, including a roundabout in Elgin that was removed due to safety issues and accidents. The meeting participants urged the village to reconsider the roundabout proposal, advocating for alternative solutions that prioritize community safety and business viability. The sentiment was clear: if the project poses a risk, it may be prudent to allocate funds to prevent a potential disaster rather than proceed with a plan deemed unsafe.