Residents voice traffic and construction concerns at city council meeting

In the heart of Upland, California, residents gathered at a recent Planning Commission meeting, their voices echoing concerns that resonate deeply within the community. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over city hall, the atmosphere was charged with urgency and a desire for clarity regarding upcoming construction projects and their potential impact on daily life.

One resident, passionately advocating for the safety of his family and neighbors, raised alarm over the use of pesticides near residential areas. “I grow my own fruits and vegetables,” he stated, expressing his apprehension about chemicals like Roundup being sprayed nearby. “I don’t want to eat that.” His plea highlighted a broader concern among residents about the environmental practices of the city and the need for assurances that their health and well-being would not be compromised by municipal decisions.

Another speaker, Jeff Perceani, a retired Navy veteran, shared his worries about the ongoing design phase for the intersection of Fourteenth and Grove. With construction looming, he questioned how the city would manage traffic disruptions and the potential for damage to newly repaired roads. “I don’t want to be calling public works every day about potholes,” he remarked, emphasizing the frustration that could arise from poorly coordinated construction efforts.

Perceani also raised critical questions about stormwater management, expressing confusion over how the city plans to handle increased runoff from new developments. “What’s going to happen when all that water has no place to go?” he asked, warning that inadequate drainage could lead to flooding in lower areas of the city. His concerns echoed a sentiment shared by many: that the city must prioritize infrastructure and safety as it moves forward with development.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that residents are not just passive observers in the planning process; they are active participants, eager to ensure that their voices are heard. The discussions illuminated a community grappling with the balance between growth and sustainability, safety and progress. With construction projects on the horizon, the stakes are high, and the need for thoughtful planning has never been more critical.

As the evening drew to a close, the residents left with lingering questions and a determination to stay engaged. Their commitment to advocating for their community underscores a vital truth: in Upland, the future is not just built by planners and developers, but by the voices of those who call it home.