During the Stafford County Board of Supervisors meeting on May 21, 2024, community concerns about the proposed Buc-ee's development took center stage, highlighting significant traffic and environmental issues that could impact local residents.
Greg Goldstein, a resident of Fort DeWitt Road, expressed his dismay over findings related to the traffic impact assessment for the Buc-ee's project. He revealed that preliminary tests indicated certain intersections in the area would likely fail to handle traffic without the additional volume generated by Buc-ee's. Goldstein criticized Stafford County for overdeveloping the region without adequate infrastructure to support the increased traffic, stating that the county's approach to the traffic study appeared manipulated to downplay the potential congestion. He emphasized that the county's decisions could lead to further traffic problems, urging the Board of Supervisors to take action.
Following Goldstein, Carissa Stankovich shared her concerns about the environmental impact of the Buc-ee's development. A long-time resident, she expressed her love for Stafford's natural beauty and the quality of life it offers. Stankovich warned that the addition of Buc-ee's would not only increase noise pollution but also contribute to litter and environmental degradation in the area. She urged the Board to consider the well-being of the community and the potential negative consequences of the development.
The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing apprehension among residents regarding the balance between development and maintaining the quality of life in Stafford County. As the Board of Supervisors continues to deliberate on the Buc-ee's proposal, the voices of concerned citizens highlight the need for careful consideration of both traffic management and environmental preservation in future planning efforts.