Residents raise urgent safety concerns over new development plans

Residents of Ozark voiced significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding the proposed Greenbridge Estates subdivision, which is set to be developed adjacent to the established Stoneridge neighborhood. The discussions highlighted fears over safety, accessibility, and the potential impact on community well-being.

Dr. [Name], a vascular neurologist and medical director at the largest health system in the Ozarks, expressed his apprehensions about emergency medical services (EMS) access to the new development. He emphasized that the proposed layout could hinder timely responses to acute medical emergencies, particularly strokes, which are a leading cause of disability. Dr. [Name] urged officials to consider the implications of increased traffic and limited access routes, especially during emergencies.

Debbie Offhoven, a long-time Stoneridge resident and HOA member, echoed these concerns, noting that the development would significantly increase traffic through the neighborhood's sole entrance. She recounted personal experiences of being unable to access her home during winter storms due to treacherous road conditions, raising alarms about the safety of both current and future residents.

Jack Obert, another resident, articulated the broader community's sentiments, acknowledging that while construction would bring noise and disruption, the primary concern was the safety risk posed by adding a substantial number of homes to a neighborhood with only one access point. He highlighted past incidents where residents faced challenges during storms and flooding, reinforcing the argument that the proposed development could exacerbate these issues.

The meeting underscored a collective call for the city officials to prioritize community safety and consider alternative access routes for the new development. Residents expressed hope that their voices would be heard in the decision-making process, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful urban planning that safeguards the well-being of existing neighborhoods.