Residents of Henry County voiced strong opposition during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed residential development near Peach Point subdivision. Concerns centered on overcrowding, safety, and inadequate public services, particularly in relation to local schools and traffic conditions.
Celeste, a resident of Early Gold Street, expressed frustration over the increasing number of homes being built in the area, stating that the community is already overwhelmed. She highlighted safety issues and the lack of nearby medical facilities, arguing that the influx of new residents would exacerbate existing problems.
Connie Snow, a long-time resident, raised alarms about the anticipated impact on local schools, questioning the accuracy of projections that estimated only 21 additional students from the new development. She criticized the city’s lack of collaboration with county officials, emphasizing that the area is already struggling with overcrowded schools and rising crime rates. Snow warned that continued development without proper planning could lead to severe consequences for the community, including a potential loss of school accreditation.
Ann Fields, a former district representative, pointed out the traffic congestion at the intersection of Holloway and Patrick Henry, describing it as a public safety hazard. While she acknowledged the developer's efforts to reduce density, she ultimately could not support the project due to existing traffic issues and the lack of comprehensive traffic studies.
Another resident, Casey Vinsulate, echoed concerns about pollution and traffic from construction, noting that the area already experiences significant delays during school drop-off times. Vinsulate emphasized the need for careful consideration of the community's infrastructure before approving further developments.
Overall, the meeting underscored a growing unease among residents regarding the pace of development in Henry County, with calls for more strategic planning to address the challenges posed by increased population density.