The Clay County Board of County Commissioners meeting on May 27, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding traffic safety and infrastructure changes affecting the Russell Baptist Church and the surrounding Lake Asbury community. Stakeholders expressed concerns about proposed modifications to Sand Ridge Road, which they believe could jeopardize safety and accessibility for churchgoers and local residents.

Representatives from Russell Baptist Church highlighted the church's role as a community hub, hosting numerous events that attract hundreds of families. They emphasized that the proposed changes would significantly impact their operations, including youth sports programs and community events. The church's leadership urged the commissioners to consider alternatives that would maintain safe access to their facilities, such as removing the raised median on Sand Ridge Road and creating a refuge lane, similar to existing setups on other major roads in the county.

Community members voiced their worries about the safety implications of the proposed traffic design, particularly the potential for increased accidents due to U-turns on a two-lane road. They argued that the current plans do not adequately address the unique needs of the church and its congregation, which includes many elderly members. The church representatives requested two entrances to their property to ensure safe traffic flow, rather than a single entrance that could create hazardous conditions.

Several speakers urged the commissioners to visit the site to better understand the traffic dynamics and safety concerns firsthand. They expressed a desire for a collaborative approach to find solutions that prioritize community safety while accommodating necessary infrastructure improvements.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of balancing development with community needs, as stakeholders called for thoughtful consideration of traffic safety measures that would protect both churchgoers and local residents. The commissioners are expected to review the feedback and explore potential adjustments to the proposed plans in future discussions.