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Sand Trace LLC withdraws request for secondary Mans School Road entrance after neighbor concerns
Summary
Developer Frank Simonelli withdrew a proposal to make an emergency access on Mans School Road into a secondary entrance after nearby residents raised safety concerns; the board accepted the withdrawal and residents pressed staff on notice procedures and traffic-safety remedies.
Frank Simonelli, representing Sand Trace LLC, withdrew a proposal to convert a planned emergency access (Roadway B) into a secondary 1- or 2-way entrance onto Mans School Road, saying neighbor concerns led him to preserve goodwill rather than pursue the change.
Simonelli told the Smithfield Planning Board on July 16 that his team explored whether the roadway could provide secondary access for the condominium development and offered to fund intersection improvements, possibly including a four-way stop or other calming measures. He also said he had discussed the matter directly with nearby residents and the fire department. After hearing residents’ opposition, he said he wanted to withdraw the application.
Residents who spoke during public comment said the Williams Road–Mans School intersection has limited sight lines because of an embankment and foliage, described concerns about vehicles reaching 35–40 mph on the adjoining roadways, and warned that winter conditions could make a four-way stop hazardous. Several asked how to receive timely notice of future filings; planning staff and the planner advised that applications are posted on OpenGov when submitted, official legal notice is published (two-week notice for hearings), and agendas are posted to the Secretary of State site 48+ hours before meetings. The planner also explained that residents can petition the Traffic Safety Commission and that the administrative officer may approve certain minor changes unless an item is escalated to the board.
The application was withdrawn that evening; the board did not take a formal vote on the substance because no application remained before it. Board members and staff encouraged residents to monitor OpenGov and the town’s postings to track future submissions.
