Residents voiced strong opposition during a recent government meeting regarding proposed multi-family apartment developments on Idaho Street, citing concerns over infrastructure strain, safety, and community character.

Multiple speakers highlighted existing issues such as low water pressure and traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Donald Barker Jr. and Christine Malm expressed their discontent with the plans for two-story apartments, arguing that the area is already overwhelmed by high-speed traffic and that the proposed developments would exacerbate these problems.

Susan Vendetti, a local resident, emphasized the need for maintaining a family-friendly environment, urging officials to prioritize single-family homes over multi-family units. She warned that the influx of new residents could lead to increased crime and congestion, particularly at the busy intersections of Idaho and Penrose. Vendetti also called for traffic lights to be installed to manage the anticipated rise in vehicle numbers, which she believes could exceed the capacity of local roads.

Julie Hensley raised concerns about the proposed development's compliance with the city's transportation plan, noting that Saringa Street, a minor collector road, is already handling more traffic than it was designed for. She warned that the anticipated increase in vehicles, combined with plans for commercial use, could overwhelm the infrastructure and pose safety risks, particularly at intersections near unguarded train tracks.

Overall, the meeting underscored a community deeply invested in preserving its character and safety, as residents urged local officials to reconsider the implications of the proposed developments on their neighborhood.