Opponents of a plan to add apartments and commercial space off Windigrove Drive in Waynesboro made a final push Monday against the project even as developers pledged to make road improvements sooner than they originally offered.
Traffic and safety remained the top concerns as neighbors sounded off during a public hearing on Waynesboro Place before the City Council.
One homeowner presented to the council a petition against the development signed by 200 residents.
“The proposed development has far-reaching implications for the entire city,” said Ellen Winter, a homeowner on Alston Court. “When companies come to check us out, they’re not only interested in low taxes but in quality of life too. When the perception is that traffic is terrible, people will go elsewhere to shop. It’s a quality of life issue for the entire city.”
Developers presented a new offer to add a right-turn lane on Lew DeWitt Boulevard between Lucy Lane and Rosser Avenue during the first phase of development, which includes plans for building 234 apartments and commercial office space.
“There was some concern that this particular improvement wouldn’t be made if Phase 2 of the project was delayed,” said Peter Wray, a co-owner of the of land on Windigrove. “We want to assure the community that this improvement will be made.”
Wray said developers still plan to add two right-turn lanes to the Interstate 64 westbound off-ramp and expand the two left-turn lanes on Rosser Avenue that turn onto Lew DeWitt Boulevard along with retail space in the second phase of the project.
“This is a good development and well thought-out project,” said Rick Cane, one of two people without ties to the project who spoke in favor of it. “These are local people who have a vested interest in Waynesboro and want to do what’s best for Waynesboro.”
The council will reconsider the development June 28.
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