Planning Board reviews Harrodsburg Road driveway and turnaround proposal for residential safety

In a recent meeting of the Lexington Board of Adjustment, significant discussions centered around a proposed driveway expansion on Harrodsburg Road, highlighting the challenges of traffic safety and zoning regulations in the area. The applicant seeks to pave a vehicle use area to facilitate safer access to the busy road, which sees an average of over 32,000 vehicles daily.

The proposal involves creating a turnaround space that extends 40 feet across and 12 feet wide, allowing residents to exit their driveway without reversing directly onto Harrodsburg Road. Traffic Engineering staff expressed support for the concept but emphasized the need to adhere to zoning regulations that limit parking and driveway width in front yards. The current zoning ordinance mandates a minimum front yard depth of 30 feet in the R1C zone and restricts driveway widths to a maximum of 24 feet.

During the meeting, board members and staff discussed potential design modifications to ensure compliance with safety standards while accommodating the applicant's needs. The proposed design aims to set the turnaround area back five feet from the property line, balancing the need for safe vehicle maneuvering with the preservation of front yard space.

Community concerns were voiced, particularly regarding visibility and safety on Harrodsburg Road. Local resident Henrietta Johnson highlighted the hazardous conditions for drivers exiting their driveways, citing poor visibility due to traffic patterns and road inclines. She urged the board to consider the broader implications of the proposed changes, including potential drainage issues and the risk of accidents.

The board ultimately decided to continue the case until next month, allowing the applicant to collaborate with traffic engineers to refine the design. This decision reflects a commitment to ensuring that any modifications enhance safety and comply with existing zoning laws, while also addressing the community's concerns about traffic conditions.

As the board prepares for the next meeting, the outcome of this case will be closely watched by residents and city officials alike, as it underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing development needs with public safety in a rapidly growing area.