Local resident urges Orem City to preserve Wilkinson Farm open space from development

During the recent Orem City Council meeting, a significant discussion emerged regarding the preservation of open space in the city, particularly focusing on Wilkinson's Farm. A resident passionately expressed concerns about the rapid development in Orem, highlighting the transformation of Sand Hill Road from a quiet country lane in 1973 to a bustling thoroughfare. This change has made it increasingly difficult for residents, including the speaker's elderly father-in-law, to navigate their own driveways safely.

The speaker emphasized that Orem is now 95% built out, leaving very little open space available. They pointed out that Wilkinson's Farm, currently zoned as open space, represents one of the last remaining areas that could be preserved. The resident argued that any development on this land would lead to increased density and traffic, exacerbating existing issues on Sand Hill Road, which is already congested.

The call to action was clear: the community must prioritize the preservation of open land to maintain the quality of life for its residents. The speaker's plea resonated with the council, urging them to consider the long-term implications of further development on the city's limited open spaces. As Orem continues to grow, the balance between development and preservation remains a critical topic for city leaders and residents alike.