During a recent government meeting, community members expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed development project that aims to add 150 new homes in a congested area of Nantucket. The discussions highlighted the inadequacies of a traffic study conducted in 2016, which many residents argue fails to accurately reflect current conditions, particularly during the busy summer months.

Residents voiced frustration over the claim that traffic would improve despite the addition of new homes. One speaker noted that during peak times, Surfside Road becomes so congested that visibility at intersections is severely compromised. They emphasized the need for an honest dialogue about the traffic situation, arguing that the proposed development would exacerbate existing issues rather than alleviate them.

Concerns were also raised about public safety, particularly regarding emergency access in the event of a fire. The proposed development features only one entrance, which residents fear could hinder evacuation efforts during emergencies. This concern was underscored by references to past incidents, including a fire at the Veranda House, which highlighted the risks associated with inadequate access routes.

Several speakers called for a comprehensive review of the project's impact on local infrastructure, including water supply and stormwater management. Residents expressed anxiety that the development could contaminate their wells and overwhelm the island's aquifer, particularly given the proposed handling of stormwater runoff, which they argue does not meet modern environmental standards.

The meeting also saw calls for accountability from the developers, with residents urging officials to critically assess the plans rather than accept them at face value. The sentiment among many community members was clear: while there is a recognized need for affordable housing, it should not come at the expense of public safety and quality of life.

As the meeting concluded, officials reassured attendees that this was only the beginning of the discussion, promising further opportunities for public input as the review process continues. The community remains vigilant, advocating for a thorough examination of the proposed development's implications on traffic, safety, and environmental health.