In a recent government meeting, plans for a new residential development were discussed, raising significant concerns among local residents regarding traffic, access, and safety. The proposed project includes a clubhouse and multiple single-family lots, with a private street designed to connect Buck Hill Road to Kendall Drive. The street will be 32 feet wide, consistent with local standards, and will feature no parking signs to maintain its width.

The development is expected to house 176 units, leading to an estimated increase of 2,600 to 2,700 daily traffic trips in the area. A traffic study conducted in May 2024 indicated that the anticipated traffic levels would still maintain acceptable service levels during peak hours. However, residents voiced apprehensions about the potential for increased congestion and safety hazards, particularly concerning left turns onto County Road 46, which they argue is a critical route for neighborhood access.

During the public hearing segment, several residents expressed their concerns about losing direct access to County Road 46, fearing that reliance on the private road could limit their ability to navigate the area effectively. They highlighted issues such as the potential for restricted access, inadequate snow removal, and the safety of children crossing the private road to access amenities like a proposed swimming pool.

The Parks and Recreation Natural Resources Committee recommended additional landscaping along the property boundaries to enhance privacy for existing homes, although this is not mandated by zoning ordinances. The Dakota County Plaque Commission also noted that access restrictions may be implemented in the future, depending on traffic conditions.

Residents urged the planning commission to reconsider the development's approval until further traffic safety studies are conducted, emphasizing the need for a thorough evaluation of the implications for local traffic patterns and community safety. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the concerns raised by the community as the planning process continues.