Residents oppose Bullock County development due to traffic and drainage concerns

In a recent Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held on June 17, 2025, in Bulloch County, residents voiced their concerns over a proposed development that could significantly impact their community. The atmosphere was charged with apprehension as local homeowners gathered to discuss the implications of increased traffic and drainage issues stemming from the new project.

Deborah Hatton, a resident whose property borders the proposed development, raised alarms about the potential traffic surge on Hagen Lane, which she described as ill-equipped to handle the influx of vehicles. "With each home likely having two cars, we could see up to 250 additional cars using this narrow road," she warned, highlighting the road's current inadequacies and the dangers it poses, especially during rainy weather. Hatton shared her experiences of navigating the road, noting that it often becomes a bottleneck, making it difficult for residents to exit onto Highway 80.

The issue of water drainage was another critical point of contention. Hatton illustrated the flooding problems her property already faces, exacerbated by recent developments in the area. "More traffic means more water runoff, and our neighborhood is already struggling with drainage," she stated, emphasizing the need for effective stormwater management in the proposed plans.

Samantha Midley, another resident, echoed these concerns, particularly regarding the safety of equestrians in the area. "With increased traffic, riding my horses on these roads will become dangerous," she expressed, underscoring the potential risks to both riders and drivers.

Cynthia Collins, who owns a nearby farm, added her voice to the chorus of opposition, citing her struggles with traffic when trying to access her property. "It takes me nearly ten minutes to get out of my driveway, and I fear it will only get worse," she lamented. Collins also raised concerns about the environmental impact of the development on her farm and local wildlife.

In response to the residents' worries, Hayden Rollins, representing the development team, assured the commission that they would implement buffers around the property and work with local authorities to address traffic and drainage issues. He emphasized that the road was planned for growth and would include storm drainage systems designed to manage runoff effectively.

Despite these reassurances, the residents remained skeptical, questioning whether the proposed measures would be sufficient to mitigate the anticipated challenges. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community's concerns would play a crucial role in shaping the future of the development and its impact on Bulloch County. The commission's decision will not only affect the immediate area but also set a precedent for how future developments are approached in this growing region.