Residents of the Wide Acres subdivision voiced their concerns during a recent government meeting regarding the proposed Stillwood Farms development, which is set to include over 130 homes. Teresa Kaiser, a local resident, emphasized the need for a second entrance to the development via Franklin Drive, arguing that the current plan only includes one entrance off Daniel Drive, which does not comply with city land development regulations requiring two entrances for developments exceeding 70 homes.
Kaiser highlighted that adding a second entrance would help distribute traffic more evenly, thereby enhancing safety for children in the neighborhood and reducing congestion on local streets. She expressed her desire for a community that fosters connectivity, allowing residents to walk to their neighbors' homes safely rather than being confined indoors.
Seth Kaiser, a civil engineer, supported Teresa's points, noting that the existing Pearl Drive, which would serve as a main feeder road for Stillwood Farms, is in poor condition and requires repairs regardless of the new development. He suggested that increased traffic from the new neighborhood could provide the impetus needed to address the road's maintenance.
Watson Neely, another resident, echoed concerns about traffic safety on Pearl Drive and criticized the planning commission's approval of the development plans without addressing these issues. He referenced previous plans that included modifications to improve road safety, indicating a need for further discussion on the development's layout.
The meeting underscored the community's desire for a thoughtful approach to urban planning that prioritizes safety and connectivity as the city prepares for the changes that the Stillwood Farms development will bring.