During a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical traffic concerns related to a proposed site plan in Carbondale, highlighting the challenges posed by increasing traffic volumes in the area. The conversation centered on whether the existing street network could accommodate the proposed development without exacerbating traffic issues.
One official emphasized that the site plan review criteria require an assessment of the surrounding street network's capacity to handle the proposed design. If the answer is negative, the applicant may need to present alternative solutions. The discussion acknowledged the significant traffic congestion on Highway 133, which has intensified over the past five years due to regional growth, catching many towns off guard.
Participants noted that while the proposed development might not directly worsen traffic at a problematic intersection, it could serve as a catalyst for necessary infrastructure improvements. The need for a cohesive and safe traffic plan for Highway 133 was underscored, with officials expressing a collective understanding of the urgency to address these issues.
The project owner, who participated via audio due to illness, expressed gratitude for the planning commission's engagement and emphasized the collaborative efforts to ensure the development meets community needs. The meeting concluded with a motion to close the public hearing, reflecting a desire to move forward with deliberations on the application while recognizing the ongoing challenges of traffic management in the area.