Residents voice fierce opposition to new housing development

Residents of Green Acres voiced significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed development plan that includes the construction of 60 townhomes on Dodd Road. Local homeowners expressed worries about increased traffic, potential devaluation of their properties, and the impact on community aesthetics.

One resident, who has lived in the area for over 30 years, highlighted the anticipated surge in traffic, estimating that the new development could add nearly 200 vehicles to the road. He pointed out that Dodd Road, which previously served as a dead-end, has become a shortcut for drivers looking to bypass traffic, raising safety concerns, especially for elderly residents who frequent the nearby public library.

Another homeowner echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the influx of families could exacerbate existing traffic issues, particularly during school hours when bus pickups already cause congestion. Residents also raised concerns about the potential noise from a planned community pool and the overall impact on their quiet neighborhood.

The issue of property values was a recurring theme, with multiple speakers expressing fears that the introduction of townhomes would lower the market value of their single-family homes. They argued that the proposed development contradicts earlier expectations of similar housing types, which had initially attracted them to the area.

Additionally, residents questioned the adequacy of infrastructure to support the new development, particularly regarding water and sewer services, as some properties on Dodd Road currently rely on well and septic systems.

While the developers assured compliance with parking regulations, residents remained skeptical, citing past experiences where code requirements did not align with actual community needs. The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of the residents' concerns as the planning process moves forward.