Clemons Village Council hears opposition to 77 townhome development over traffic and safety concerns

In the heart of Clemmons, North Carolina, the Village Council meeting on June 9, 2025, became a platform for passionate discussions about a proposed development that has stirred deep concerns among local residents. As the sun dipped below the horizon, community members gathered to voice their apprehensions about the construction of 77 new townhomes, a project that many believe could exacerbate existing traffic and stormwater issues.

Hope Harris, a lifelong resident, opened the floor with a heartfelt plea, reflecting on her family's long history in the area. "We've seen all the developments... and now we need to try and protect it," she stated, emphasizing the need for careful planning to avoid repeating past mistakes. Harris highlighted the potential dangers of increased traffic on Lewisville-Clemmons Road, where the proposed development could lead to hazardous left turns during peak hours.

Corrine McDicee, another concerned resident, echoed these sentiments, pointing out the current inadequacies of the road infrastructure. "Without a protected left turn, we're putting residents in a situation where they'll be forced to make unprotected left turns onto an already dangerous stretch of road," she warned. Her call for a delay in the project until necessary road improvements are made resonated with many in attendance.

Paul Whitener, a member of the Old Meadowbrook neighborhood, added to the chorus of concerns by discussing the environmental implications of the development. He noted that the construction would clear 14 acres of trees, increasing impervious surfaces and worsening stormwater runoff. "Hundred-year storms come way sooner than a hundred years now," he cautioned, urging the council to consider the long-term impacts on the community's safety and environment.

In response, proponents of the development argued that the project would not significantly contribute to stormwater issues, as the Smith property represents only a small fraction of the overall drainage basin. They pointed to improvements planned for Lewisville-Clemmons Road, which they believe will enhance traffic flow and safety.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the council faces a challenging decision. The voices of concerned residents reflect a community deeply invested in its future, wary of the potential consequences of rapid development. With safety and environmental sustainability at the forefront of discussions, the council must weigh the benefits of growth against the pressing need for infrastructure improvements.

As the evening drew to a close, the council's decision on the proposed development looms large, with residents hopeful that their concerns will guide the path forward for Clemmons. The outcome will not only shape the landscape of their community but also determine how it navigates the delicate balance between growth and preservation.