Neighbors urge avoiding Marshall Road access after reports of repeated crashes

Multiple neighbors told the Eaton County Planning Commission they are concerned about vehicle speeds and a blind curve on Marshall Road near 4012 Marshall Road, where Union Church of 5 Corners is seeking approval to divide and sell two lots. Those neighbors asked the commission to avoid new driveways onto Marshall Road and to require access via 5 Point Highway or enhanced traffic controls.

Staff read a written statement from Genevieve Wilson describing a string of collisions and fatalities on the curve and listing specific near‑crashes. At the public hearing, adjacent owner Jeneva Wilson said, "I've lived there since 1964," and recounted multiple incidents where vehicles passed on the curve and caused near‑fatal collisions. She urged the commission to require an easement to the rear of the church property and said a traffic light at the 5 Point and Marshall intersection would "eliminate many fender bender bumpers there also."

Planning staff explained the commission's legal limits: the Land Division Act requires only proof of road access and does not allow the planning commission to mandate that a driveway permit be obtained prior to land division. The Eaton County Road Commission issues driveway permits and enforces site‑distance requirements; staff noted some property owners have been unable to obtain permits because of safety concerns. Commissioners said the Road Commission review and permitting process would be the venue to address driveway placement and required safety improvements.