Resident asks Willington to address pedestrian safety, restroom access at solar/EV charging site

A resident raised safety and sanitation concerns at the June 16 meeting, saying people walking from the solar/EV charging pad to a nearby TA truck stop must cross busy vehicle areas and lack restroom access. "I've driven past the solar charging area a number of times... I've seen people having to walk from there over to TA," the resident told the commission.

The resident suggested conditions such as requiring a sidewalk to the edge of the charging property or coordination with TA to provide a crossing and access that would reduce unsafe pedestrian movements and improve sanitation.

Staff explained the original approval required site infrastructure and a pad but did not compel the property owner to build a structure; a special permit does not expire and there was no time limit on constructing a building. Staff said they would review the approvals and the permit conditions and look for practical, legally feasible steps to improve safety, including discussing options with the property owner and TA and checking any DOT constraints.

Commissioners and staff agreed the situation merits follow‑up, noting cooperation between neighboring property owners or targeted, low‑cost improvements could address safety concerns if legally and logistically feasible. Staff committed to reviewing the approvals and reporting back.

Ending: Staff will examine the permit records and potential corrective options and follow up with the commission on feasible safety or access improvements.