Oakhurst residents raise concerns over proposed 17-home development's traffic impact

The Planning Commission meeting for the Town of Blythewood on May 5, 2025, focused on a proposed residential development that has raised significant concerns among local residents. The meeting, held to discuss the implications of the project, featured multiple speakers from the Oakhurst neighborhood, who expressed their apprehensions regarding increased traffic, safety, and property values.

The primary concern raised by residents was the impact of the proposed development on Boney Road's infrastructure. A resident highlighted the fragility of the road, noting that it struggles to handle current traffic and is prone to damage from weather conditions. They questioned what measures the developers would take to support the road's capacity as traffic increases due to the new homes.

Chris Scholl, a long-time resident and real estate broker, voiced concerns about the zoning differences between the proposed R-8 lots and the existing R-20 homes in Oakhurst. He emphasized that the higher density of the new development could adversely affect property values and the overall character of the neighborhood. Scholl also raised issues regarding increased traffic flow, which could compromise safety, particularly for pedestrians and children in the area.

Cindy Scholl, speaking on behalf of another resident, echoed these sentiments, expressing anxiety about the potential for three roads to surround their home, which could disrupt the quiet and safety they valued when moving to the neighborhood. She urged the commission to reconsider the access points for the new development to protect the community's integrity.

Kathy Calder, unable to attend in person, submitted her concerns regarding the proposed development's compatibility with existing zoning laws. She argued that the high-density nature of the new homes would burden the Oakhurst neighborhood without providing benefits such as HOA dues, further stressing the potential negative impact on property values and safety.

Jason Fishbone, another resident, reiterated the safety concerns for children and families in the neighborhood, emphasizing that the addition of 17 new homes would significantly increase traffic and jeopardize the community's safety.

The meeting concluded with a clear expression of community opposition to the proposed development, highlighting the need for careful consideration of infrastructure and zoning regulations to maintain the character and safety of the Oakhurst neighborhood. The Planning Commission is expected to deliberate on these concerns as they move forward with the development proposal.