The Plymouth Planning Board convened on October 9, 2024, to discuss several pressing issues regarding a proposed development on Braley Lane, which has raised significant community concerns about safety and traffic management.

The meeting began with public comments from residents, highlighting the perceived social and safety challenges associated with the proposed addition of 24 residential units. One resident expressed skepticism about the ability of developers and planners to manage human behavior, questioning how they would enforce occupancy limits and address potential overcrowding in the new units. Concerns were raised about the existing traffic conditions on Braley Lane, where residents noted that the road is already hazardous for pedestrians and drivers alike.

Another speaker, who operates a small business in Downtown Plymouth, emphasized the need for a comprehensive assessment of the intersection's safety. They argued that the current proposals do not adequately address the potential dangers posed by increased traffic, particularly at the intersection of Braley Lane and South Street. The speaker called for a clearer understanding of what improvements would be necessary to ensure safety if financial constraints were not a factor.

Additional comments from residents focused on the location of the proposed driveway entrance for the new development. One resident questioned why the entrance was not planned for South Street, which has historically been the access point for similar developments. They argued that placing the entrance on Braley Lane would exacerbate existing safety issues, particularly given the busy nature of the intersection.

The discussion also touched on the frequency of accidents in the area, with one resident challenging the reported statistics, suggesting that the actual number of incidents may be higher than documented. This sentiment was echoed by others who shared personal experiences of navigating the dangerous intersection.

As the meeting progressed, the board members listened attentively to the residents' concerns, indicating a need for further evaluation of the proposed development's impact on local traffic and safety. The board did not make any immediate decisions but acknowledged the importance of community feedback in shaping future planning efforts.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the community's apprehension regarding the proposed development on Braley Lane, particularly concerning traffic safety and the adequacy of existing infrastructure to support additional housing. The Planning Board is expected to consider these concerns as they move forward with the planning process.