I am in opposition to the proposed rezoning request by Belle Mead Farm LLC for the Route 24 property. As a Sussex County homeowner, I am concerned this project seeks to convert agricultural-residential land to planned commercial for a mixed-use development, which will pose significant negative impacts on the community.
The proposed development raises serious concerns regarding:
- Traffic congestion: The estimate of 6,800 additional vehicle trips per day, a 37% increase, is concerning and will likely worsen the traffic on Route 24. While Route 24 is designated as an arterial road and evacuation route, it already struggles with traffic, and the Belle Mead project would worsen this. The existing dualization project on Route 24, which ends near the schools, is insufficient to handle current traffic, let alone the increase this development would bring. I have sat for nine minutes trying to make a left-hand turn out of the Saddle Ridge community onto Route 24 in the recent past
- Infrastructure strain: The local infrastructure is not equipped for the increased demands of a large-scale development like Belle Mead. Approving multifamily dwellings could exacerbate existing overcrowding in local schools and would impact the already stressed fire and rescue services
- Environmental impact: The proposed development will result in the loss of valuable forest and wetland areas. This loss of natural habitat could negatively impact local wildlife and potentially lead to issues such as increased water runoff impacting adjacent properties
- Public safety: Increased traffic volume, especially during peak hours and high tourist season, would create safety hazards for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers. The impact on student safety during after-school hours at Love Creek elementary and Beacon Middle School due to increased traffic is a serious concern
- Consistency with comprehensive plan: The proposed rezoning does not align with the county's comprehensive plan, particularly Objective 4.2 of Goal 4.2, which states: “Engage in planning that considers the efficient location of public services and infrastructure.”
Approving this request would contradict the established guidelines for responsible development and the preservation of the community's character and resources. Therefore, I urge the Sussex County Council to consider the potential impacts of approving the rezoning request by Belle Mead Farm LLC.
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