Hidden Oaks president demands traffic control measures near Modine warehouses

The Franklin Plan Commission meeting on March 20, 2025, featured significant concerns from local residents regarding increased traffic due to nearby warehouse developments. The president of the Hidden Oaks Homeowners Association, representing the community, voiced strong apprehensions about the impact of construction and operational traffic from Modine, a local manufacturing facility.

During the public hearing, the HOA president highlighted the dangers posed by heavy truck traffic on residential streets, particularly 30 Fourth Street and 30 First Street. He noted that these streets are frequently used by families, children, and cyclists, raising safety concerns as construction traffic has already begun to affect the neighborhood. The president expressed frustration over the inadequacy of existing construction signs, which he claimed did not deter trucks from using residential roads.

He proposed that Modine implement traffic management strategies similar to those used by another local business, Saputo, which directs traffic away from residential areas. Specifically, he requested the installation of signs on major roads, such as Ryan Road and Oakwood, to prohibit warehouse traffic on the narrower residential streets.

The HOA president emphasized the importance of collaboration between the community and local businesses to ensure safety and maintain a healthy living environment. He called for proactive measures to prevent potential traffic issues before they escalate, underscoring the need for ongoing dialogue with city officials and business representatives. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address these concerns and explore possible solutions to enhance traffic safety in the area.