During a recent city council meeting in Fair Oaks Ranch, residents voiced strong opinions regarding the proposed construction of a new community center and the ongoing debate over the permanent closure of Noble Ark Drive.

One resident expressed concerns about the financial implications of building a community center, highlighting that maintenance costs for a 5,300 square foot facility would ultimately fall on taxpayers. They suggested downsizing the project to a more manageable 2,500 to 3,000 square feet, which could still accommodate community needs such as voting and local meetings while alleviating parking issues.

The discussion shifted to the fate of Noble Ark Drive, where residents presented conflicting views on its closure. Supporters of the closure, including letters from residents Mark and Brandy Freeberg, argued that the temporary closure has improved neighborhood safety and reduced traffic congestion. They emphasized that the street should remain a local neighborhood road, as intended in the city’s traffic plans, rather than becoming a thoroughfare for non-residents.

Conversely, the Frontgate Homeowners Association expressed opposition to the closure, arguing that it would exacerbate traffic issues in their gated community, which already faces challenges during school drop-off and pick-up times. They urged the council to reconsider the closure, citing the need for a balanced approach that considers the needs of all residents.

Viv Serrano, another resident, shared personal experiences highlighting safety concerns for children in the area, advocating for the street's continued closure to protect the quality of life in the neighborhood. She noted that reopening the street could lead to increased traffic and safety risks, particularly with the recent opening of a nearby commercial area.

The council is expected to deliberate further on these issues, with residents calling for comprehensive traffic studies and workshops to address the community's concerns effectively. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact both the proposed community center and the future of Noble Ark Drive.