Scranton residents voice concerns over Market Street apartment project's impact on traffic and flooding

In a recent meeting of the Scranton Zoning Hearing Board, community members voiced their concerns over a proposed apartment project on Market Street, highlighting issues of flooding, traffic, and safety. The atmosphere was charged with apprehension as residents gathered to discuss the implications of the development, which is set to introduce multiple one- and two-bedroom units to an already congested area.

One resident raised immediate concerns about the flooding that has plagued Market Street, questioning how the construction would address these ongoing issues. “They patched it up, but that’s not a luxury,” he remarked, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The project, initially slated to begin this year, has left many wondering about its viability given the area's history of water-related challenges.

Christine Falbo, co-president of the North Scranton Neighborhood Association, echoed these sentiments, pointing out the existing parking problems that already see vehicles obstructing sidewalks. “It’s a high traffic area,” she noted, drawing attention to the potential for increased congestion with the addition of new residents. Falbo also expressed concerns about the proximity of the proposed site to the floodplain and the impact construction might have on local waterways.

Diana Blank, a resident living directly across from the proposed site, shared her fears about traffic safety, citing multiple accidents in the area. “There’s just so much traffic there as it is,” she said, highlighting the dangers posed by vehicles ignoring crosswalks. Blank's worries extended to the potential for delivery vehicles blocking driveways, a problem she has already encountered.

Justin Nikoloff, a neighboring property owner, added to the chorus of opposition, describing the current state of the property as “a dump” and expressing concern over the safety of his tenants due to ongoing issues with garbage and fires at the site. His remarks underscored a broader anxiety about the neighborhood's future should the project proceed.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community remains deeply divided over the proposed development. With pressing concerns about flooding, traffic, and safety, residents are left to ponder the implications of the project on their daily lives and the character of their neighborhood. The city council's next steps will be crucial in addressing these issues and determining the future of Market Street.