Vote for quality of life, not corporate profit, consumerism
We are residents of Briarwood Estates, near Beacon Middle School and Love Creek Elementary School. We attended the P&Z hearing for the Atlantic Fields shopping center. Do not approve this project.
As full-time residents and taxpayers, our quality of life and safety will be diminished, and the natural environment – which is already strained – will suffer further. If approved, Atlantic Fields will increase congestion, making it difficult for firefighters, EMS, police and school transports to operate efficiently. You’ve already heard from emergency workers directly about their concerns, but we also want you to know that we have experienced the quick response of emergency services many times in the past 30 years. They’ve surely saved lives and provided assurance they can help when needed. Increased congestion will delay their response. Also, consider that congestion frustrates drivers and leads to dangerous choices, putting more strain on emergency services.
Furthermore, the site of Atlantic Fields is farmland that has grown food for people and wildlife for centuries. It also mitigates flooding, preserves green space/open space to protect air quality, and reduces light pollution. Why pave this generous green space to construct concrete buildings that include no rain gardens, roof gardens or solar energy? The current design includes little islands with trees in the vast, impermeable parking lots that are more decorative than environmentally sound. If anything goes into this location, preferably a mixed-use design with generous affordable housing, greatly reduce the size to preserve open space and keep it environmentally sound.
Our infrastructure can’t possibly keep pace with the current level of development. You’ve seen the traffic studies and know these numbers will only increase with surrounding development already approved and/or under construction. You also know the limitations on widening Route 24 within a reasonable time frame. With Atlantic Fields’ intended opening by 2028, this area will be gridlocked night and day and year-round, even with improved roads.
The developers and corporations involved will profit greatly. What will citizens get and at what cost? We already have plenty of shopping centers and are hard-pressed to staff them. What public good is accomplished by building more shopping centers? What does this say about our county leaders who approve excessive commercial growth instead of affordable housing and human services?
We’re not opposed to change but implore you to consider the bigger picture. Vote for more balance and for quality-of-life improvements, not for consumerism and corporate profit.
