Cal Gentry proposes Wedgewood Drive redesign to manage neighborhood traffic flow

The Gallatin City Planning Commission recently discussed a proposed development that aims to extend Wedgewood Drive and introduce new townhomes and commercial spaces. This development is designed to enhance local infrastructure while addressing traffic concerns in the area.

The proposal includes a plan for parallel parking along Wedgewood Drive, with access to the townhomes provided through an adjacent alley, eliminating direct driveways. The developers are seeking relief from a requirement mandating that 70% of the building materials be brickstone, indicating a desire for flexibility in design.

Cal Gentry from Civil Land Company, representing the developers, emphasized the importance of managing traffic flow in the area. He noted that the current traffic patterns on Highway 109 have led to increased cut-through traffic in nearby residential neighborhoods, particularly during peak hours. To mitigate this, the development proposes rear-loaded townhomes that face the street, with garages accessed from the back to reduce street congestion.

Concerns were raised about potential traffic impacts if additional connections to nearby streets, Paisley and Bernhardt, were made. Gentry argued that these connections could exacerbate traffic issues, as they might encourage more vehicles to divert through quiet residential streets. Instead, he suggested that maintaining the existing traffic patterns would be more beneficial for neighborhood safety.

The commission also discussed the importance of pedestrian and bike access in the area. Plans include sidewalks and bike lanes that would connect the new development to the Nexus commercial area, ensuring safe passage for residents.

Overall, the discussions highlighted a balance between development and community safety, with the planning commission considering both the potential benefits of new commercial spaces and the need to protect residential areas from increased traffic. The next steps will involve further evaluation of the proposed connections and the design elements to ensure they align with community needs and safety standards.