Residents urge Greer officials to address road safety before new townhomes development

Residents of Greer expressed significant concerns regarding the proposed development of townhomes in the Ashley Gardens area during a recent Board of Zoning Appeals meeting. The discussions highlighted critical issues related to local infrastructure, traffic safety, and emergency services.

One resident raised alarms about the potential addition of 500 vehicles to already congested roads, specifically Blackwell Road, Valentine Road, and Bible Brook Drive. These roads, characterized by narrow shoulders and crumbling pavement, struggle to accommodate current traffic levels, often forcing vehicles to yield to larger vehicles like buses and trash trucks. The resident emphasized that the existing infrastructure is inadequate for the anticipated increase in traffic, which could lead to dangerous conditions.

Another speaker, Kenneth Wilson, echoed these sentiments, noting that the current road setup is not equipped to handle the influx of cars expected from the new development. He pointed out that many homes in the area have multiple vehicles, which could exacerbate the traffic situation. Wilson advocated for improvements to the infrastructure before any new construction takes place.

Concerns were also raised about emergency services access, particularly in light of a bridge closure that has limited access to the neighborhood since 2020. Residents fear that adding more homes without addressing these infrastructure issues could hinder emergency response times.

While the proposed development includes recreational amenities such as a pickleball court and a dog park, residents questioned whether these facilities would be open to the public, potentially increasing traffic and strain on local resources. They highlighted the lack of nearby eateries and services, which would require residents to travel further, adding to the traffic burden.

The meeting concluded with a call for the city to prioritize infrastructure improvements and emergency services before proceeding with new residential developments. Residents expressed a desire for their concerns to be taken seriously, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to growth that considers the well-being of current residents.