Residents of Lehigh voiced significant concerns regarding drainage, safety, and noise pollution during a recent city council meeting. The discussions centered around the impact of a proposed construction project along 23100 West, which many residents fear could exacerbate existing issues.

Owen Meekam, a local resident, highlighted the absence of sidewalks on the west side of the road, emphasizing that this could lead to dangerous water runoff during snowmelt and rainstorms. He pointed out that the current design lacks adequate drainage solutions, which could result in substantial water accumulation on properties, likening it to a \"large swimming pool\" effect. Meekam urged the city to reconsider the project’s design to prevent further damage to residents' properties.

Aaron Watson, Meekam's neighbor, echoed these concerns, sharing his personal experience of having to invest heavily in drainage solutions to protect his home. He raised alarms about the safety risks posed by the proximity of the road to residential properties, particularly given the high speeds at which vehicles travel. Watson suggested that a sound barrier or retaining wall could mitigate both safety and noise concerns, as the current chain link fences are deemed ineffective.

Elizabeth Scadden, another resident, expressed frustration over the noise levels affecting her family's quality of life, particularly for her children. She advocated for the installation of a sound barrier to improve privacy and reduce noise pollution from the nearby road and park-and-ride facility.

City officials acknowledged the residents' concerns and discussed potential collaborations with the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) regarding sound studies and the possibility of sound walls. The council emphasized the importance of addressing these issues, especially as the city navigates a budget surplus that could facilitate improvements.

The meeting underscored the community's urgent need for effective solutions to drainage, safety, and noise pollution as the city moves forward with its construction plans. Residents are hopeful that their voices will lead to actionable changes that enhance their living conditions.