Community Meeting Addresses Traffic Concerns Over New Housing Development in Hagerstown

In the heart of Hagerstown, Maryland, the city council meeting on March 25, 2025, unfolded with a blend of hope and concern as residents voiced their opinions on a proposed housing development that has been in the works for over two decades. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as community members gathered to discuss the implications of new construction on their neighborhoods.

One resident, passionately advocating for the project, emphasized the need for growth in Washington County. He argued that prioritizing single-family homes over townhouses could foster a safer community, suggesting that townhouses often lead to higher crime rates and a transient population. “If we make these single-family homes, we can prevent any form of rentals from taking over the neighborhood,” he stated, highlighting a desire for stability and a sense of belonging in the area.

However, not all voices echoed this optimism. Madge Morningstar, a long-time resident with deep family roots in Hagerstown, raised critical concerns about traffic and safety. She pointed out that the proposed access road for the new development could lead to significant congestion, trapping current residents and complicating emergency access. “It just seems unsafe and it just seems crazy that we're asking the residents to pay this cost because the developers say they can't afford to put in the road,” she lamented, questioning the financial planning of those behind the project.

The meeting showcased a community at a crossroads, grappling with the balance between development and the preservation of their way of life. As discussions unfolded, it became clear that while growth is essential, the manner in which it is pursued must consider the existing residents' needs and safety. The council's challenge lies in navigating these complex concerns while fostering a vision for Hagerstown's future that honors both progress and community integrity.

As the evening drew to a close, the council members were left with the weight of these discussions, tasked with making decisions that would shape the landscape of Hagerstown for generations to come. The dialogue between growth and community safety continues, reflecting the hopes and fears of those who call this city home.