Concerns over traffic safety and housing development dominated the recent Plymouth Planning Board meeting, as residents voiced their apprehensions about a proposed project on Braley Lane. The meeting highlighted the potential impact of increased traffic on local families, particularly children, and raised questions about the suitability of the planned housing units.

Residents expressed significant worries about the safety of children walking to school and community events. Sofia Kovach, a local teenager, shared her experiences of navigating heavy traffic without sidewalks, emphasizing the dangers posed by both vehicles and teen drivers in the area. She noted that many students currently walk to school, and with the anticipated increase in traffic from the new development, the situation could become even more hazardous.

Kathy Lamond, another resident, criticized the proposed housing plan, which includes 24 units aimed at low-income families. She argued that the projected rent of $2,300 per month for 20 of these units does not align with the definition of affordable housing, suggesting that such costs would require dual incomes to sustain. Lamond also raised concerns about the adequacy of parking spaces, predicting that the number of vehicles would exceed the available spots, further exacerbating traffic issues on Braley Lane.

The discussions also touched on the design of the proposed building, with some residents describing it as unattractive and reminiscent of a housing project. Lamond urged the Planning Board to reconsider the architectural design to avoid stigmatizing future residents.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that community members are deeply invested in ensuring that any new development prioritizes safety and accessibility for families. The Planning Board will need to weigh these concerns carefully as they move forward with the project, balancing the need for housing with the well-being of existing residents.