Kennedale residents voice concerns over New Hope Road housing development and infrastructure issues

Concerns over infrastructure and safety dominated the recent Planning and Zoning Commission meeting in Kennedale, Texas, as residents voiced their opposition to a proposed housing development by Habitat for Humanity. The project, which aims to add over 200 homes to the area, has raised alarms among local residents regarding the adequacy of existing roads and emergency services.

Residents highlighted that New Hope Road, currently a two-lane thoroughfare, is already struggling to accommodate traffic, particularly from heavy vehicles like 18-wheelers. Many expressed fears that the additional 600 cars expected from the new homes would exacerbate existing traffic issues and create safety hazards. “The road cannot handle the weight of 18-wheelers,” one resident noted, pointing to potholes and dips that have developed due to current traffic loads.

Concerns extended beyond traffic, with multiple speakers emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure before any new housing can be built. Issues such as inadequate emergency vehicle access due to nearby train tracks and the lack of drainage plans were frequently mentioned. One resident, who works in dirt construction, raised alarms about potential flooding, stating, “How can you guarantee our homes will not flood now? New Hope floods.”

The meeting also revealed a lack of communication regarding the development. Several residents reported not receiving notifications about the project, despite being within the vicinity. This has led to a petition against the development, with signatures from numerous homeowners who feel the project is not suitable for the area.

Additionally, residents expressed concerns about the impact on property values and local taxes, questioning how the introduction of lower-cost homes would affect their investments. “How does that affect our taxes? Is that going to drop my property value?” one speaker asked, reflecting a sentiment shared by many in attendance.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while the need for affordable housing is recognized, many residents believe that the current infrastructure must be addressed first. “We need to have a plan before you approve anything else,” urged one speaker, encapsulating the community's call for a more thoughtful approach to development that prioritizes safety and infrastructure readiness. The commission will need to weigh these concerns carefully as they consider the future of the proposed housing project.