Residents of the Hawks Ridge community in Shelton voiced significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding proposed developments in the area, particularly focusing on traffic impacts and safety issues on Long Hill Crossroads and Bridgeport Avenue.

Val Kuhn, a resident of Wellsview Road, emphasized the community's desire for development that is cohesive and aesthetically pleasing, rather than outright opposition to new projects. She presented two petitions: one with over 70% support from homes within 500 feet of the proposed development and another with 140 signatures opposing the change to a Planned Development District (PDD).

Kim Drosos, another resident, highlighted the existing traffic congestion on Bridgeport Avenue, noting that residents often wait through multiple traffic light cycles to exit onto the busy road. She expressed concerns about the narrowness of Long Hill Cross, which complicates access and increases the risk of accidents, particularly with the anticipated influx of construction traffic from new developments. Drosos called for a new traffic impact study to address these issues, as previous studies did not accurately reflect the road conditions.

Julie Bostenak, also from Hawks Ridge, raised alarms about the safety of children using the bus stop at the intersection of Wellsview and Long Hill Crossroads. She pointed out that the visibility issues on the winding road pose a danger to children getting on and off school buses. Bostenak urged the commission to consider the potential increase in traffic from new developments, including a proposed extended-stay hotel and additional retail spaces, which could exacerbate the already hazardous conditions.

The residents collectively urged local officials to take their concerns seriously, particularly regarding traffic management and safety measures, as the community prepares for the impact of ongoing and future developments.