Neighbors Rally Against Proposed School Over Traffic Concerns
November 16, 2024 | Morgantown, Monongalia County, West Virginia
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In a recent Morgantown planning commission meeting, discussions centered around the proposed establishment of Wisdom Academy, a private K-6 school, which has sparked both support and opposition from community members. Proponents of the school emphasized its potential to provide valuable educational options for local families, highlighting the commitment to creating a positive learning environment for students. The head of Wisdom Academy expressed a desire for the institution to set a standard for education in West Virginia, noting the importance of addressing the diverse needs of the community.
However, significant concerns were raised by nearby residents regarding the anticipated increase in traffic congestion and safety issues associated with the school's location. Residents voiced their worries about the already congested streets during school drop-off and pick-up times, citing difficulties in accessing their driveways and the potential hazards posed to pedestrians and pets. One resident, Liz Vitullo, read a letter of objection from a neighborhood group, emphasizing that their concerns were rooted in safety rather than opposition to the school itself.
Additional residents echoed these sentiments, pointing out that the proposed school would exacerbate existing traffic issues, particularly during peak hours when multiple schools in the area are in session. They urged the planning commission to consider the implications of adding more vehicles to an already strained infrastructure.
In response to these concerns, the planning division recommended approval of the school’s application, noting that the proposal aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan and that measures have been proposed to mitigate traffic issues. Conditions for approval include a stipulation that the school’s hours be set to avoid overlap with peak traffic times.
The meeting underscored the community's divided stance on the school, balancing the desire for educational options against the pressing need for safety and traffic management in the neighborhood. The planning commission will take these discussions into account as they move forward with their decision on the school’s application.
However, significant concerns were raised by nearby residents regarding the anticipated increase in traffic congestion and safety issues associated with the school's location. Residents voiced their worries about the already congested streets during school drop-off and pick-up times, citing difficulties in accessing their driveways and the potential hazards posed to pedestrians and pets. One resident, Liz Vitullo, read a letter of objection from a neighborhood group, emphasizing that their concerns were rooted in safety rather than opposition to the school itself.
Additional residents echoed these sentiments, pointing out that the proposed school would exacerbate existing traffic issues, particularly during peak hours when multiple schools in the area are in session. They urged the planning commission to consider the implications of adding more vehicles to an already strained infrastructure.
In response to these concerns, the planning division recommended approval of the school’s application, noting that the proposal aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan and that measures have been proposed to mitigate traffic issues. Conditions for approval include a stipulation that the school’s hours be set to avoid overlap with peak traffic times.
The meeting underscored the community's divided stance on the school, balancing the desire for educational options against the pressing need for safety and traffic management in the neighborhood. The planning commission will take these discussions into account as they move forward with their decision on the school’s application.
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