Fitchburg residents rally against proposed 377 apartment complex citing traffic and community concerns

Fitchburg residents voiced strong concerns during the Common Council meeting on December 10, 2024, regarding a proposed development of 377 apartments, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of traffic, school capacity, and community trust.

Several speakers highlighted the existing traffic issues on Lacey Road, which they argue is already in disrepair and ill-equipped to handle increased congestion from the new housing project. Residents expressed fears that the situation could lead to accidents, particularly with a school located nearby. Rita Henrichs, a long-time resident, urged the council to deny the proposal, stating that adding more apartments without assessing their impact on the community is irresponsible. She emphasized the importance of honoring previous agreements with citizens and ensuring that their voices are heard in the planning process.

Emmanuel Munoz Monsalve, another resident, acknowledged the need for more housing but cautioned against rushing into decisions without thorough community input. He noted that while he supports the idea of more housing units, it is crucial to consider the specific needs of the community and the implications of such developments.

The meeting also saw a significant number of residents registering their opposition to the project, with many expressing feelings of distrust towards local government. Concerns were raised about the saturation of rental units in Fitchburg, which currently make up 50% of the city's residential units. Residents argued that if there is a genuine need for more housing, neighboring communities should also contribute to addressing it.

As the council continues to deliberate on this proposal, the feedback from the community underscores the importance of transparency and engagement in local governance. The outcome of this discussion will likely have lasting implications for Fitchburg's development and the relationship between residents and their elected officials.