Residents raise alarm over massive new development plans

In a recent public hearing, concerns were raised regarding a proposed 639-unit mixed-use development on South Galleria Drive in Murray City, which is expected to significantly impact the surrounding community. Hunter's Woods SPE LLC, the owner of a nearby 324-unit apartment complex, expressed apprehensions about the project's density and its implications for local health, safety, and welfare.

The firm representing Hunter's Woods highlighted that the city had previously denied their request to add just eight units to their property due to density concerns, raising questions about the consistency of the city's decision-making. They estimate that the new development could bring approximately 2,518 additional residents to the area, exacerbating existing parking issues. Hunter's Woods anticipates that the proposed 1,350 parking stalls will be insufficient, leading to overflow onto neighborhood streets and private properties, reminiscent of recent parking challenges faced by nearby apartment complexes.

Traffic congestion is another major concern, particularly on Murray Boulevard, which is currently a two-lane road. Hunter's Woods criticized the city for mischaracterizing it as a four-lane thoroughfare in their planning documents. With the anticipated influx of vehicles, local roads are expected to become overwhelmed, especially during peak times when children are being dropped off at nearby Horizon Elementary School.

Additionally, Hunter's Woods pointed out that the Utah Transit Authority has acknowledged the challenges of high-density living in the area and is working to improve public transit options. However, the lack of plans for expanding Murray Boulevard raises further concerns about traffic safety and accessibility.

The meeting also touched on a private water line running through Hunter's Woods property, which may be necessary for the new development's utilities. Hunter's Woods indicated that they would need to assess the implications of granting access to this line.

As the city considers the development proposal, Hunter's Woods is seeking independent traffic studies to better understand the potential ramifications of the project. The outcome of this hearing could have lasting effects on the community's infrastructure and quality of life.