Concerns over the proposed Route 5 New Osborne Turnpike improvement project dominated discussions at the Central Virginia Transportation Authority (CVTA) meeting on February 23, 2024. Community members voiced strong opposition, highlighting a lack of public awareness and inadequate engagement from the CVTA regarding the project.

Residents expressed frustration that many in the immediate area were unaware of the project details, despite a press release and limited social media outreach. "People didn't know about the process prior to this," one speaker noted, emphasizing the need for local hearings on such controversial projects. The call for greater public involvement echoed throughout the meeting, with several attendees urging the CVTA to reconsider funding for the project until more comprehensive community input is gathered.

Susan Wagner, a long-time resident, passionately opposed the project, stating, "None of you performing would want this going up in your back or front yard." She urged the authority to heed community concerns, arguing that the project would negatively impact both the city and the county.

Aileen Rivera, another resident, echoed these sentiments, criticizing the CVTA for presenting conflicting information on their website compared to what was communicated by local supervisors. She called for a thorough traffic study before any decisions are made, warning that adding a four-lane highway would exacerbate existing traffic issues.

The meeting underscored a growing demand for transparency and community involvement in transportation planning. As residents continue to voice their concerns, the CVTA faces pressure to reassess its approach and prioritize public engagement in future projects.