Summit County residents voiced strong concerns about traffic and infrastructure during a special County Council meeting on November 7, 2024. The meeting highlighted significant community apprehensions regarding proposed developments and their potential impact on local traffic conditions.

Several residents, including Bill, Suzanne Rosenberg, and Dinah Bipond, expressed frustration over the current traffic situation, particularly around Bear Hollow and Highway 224. Bill described the hazardous conditions when exiting Bear Hollow, emphasizing the need for immediate solutions before any new construction begins. Rosenberg echoed this sentiment, arguing that the proposed residential developments would exacerbate traffic issues without addressing the underlying problems first.

The discussion also touched on the implications of public-private partnerships in funding new projects. Rosenberg raised concerns about taxpayers potentially subsidizing private developments, questioning the fairness of such arrangements. Dinah Bipond shared her personal experiences with traffic delays, highlighting the urgency for effective transportation solutions before any new housing initiatives are launched.

Keith Russell and Kathy Silver further emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to infrastructure, including water, sewer, and school capacity, alongside traffic management. Russell called for a detailed model to predict future traffic conditions, while Silver pointed out the lack of consideration for essential services in the planning process.

The meeting underscored a collective demand from residents for the County Council to prioritize traffic mitigation and infrastructure improvements before proceeding with any new developments. As the council moves forward, the community's concerns will likely shape future discussions and decisions regarding growth and development in Summit County.