Concerns over traffic and safety dominated the recent Garland City Council meeting, as residents voiced their apprehensions regarding a proposed increase in townhome developments. Local residents, including Joy and Janie Bridal, raised alarms about the potential impact on already congested streets, particularly Roan Circle and Roan Road.

Joy highlighted the challenges of navigating the area, noting that the proposed development would exacerbate traffic issues, especially for emergency vehicles. "I live on a cul-de-sac, and the circle isn’t very big," she explained, emphasizing her worries about how the influx of residents and their vehicles would affect access during emergencies. With 43 townhomes potentially adding up to 86 cars, she questioned where all these vehicles would park, fearing they would spill over onto her street during gatherings.

Janie Bridal echoed these concerns, sharing her frustrations with the current traffic situation. "The traffic on Roan Road has increased so much," she stated, recounting her struggles to exit her street during peak hours. She suggested reinstating a police presence to curb speeding, a measure that had previously helped manage traffic flow.

The discussions reflect a growing unease among residents about the balance between development and community safety. As the city considers these developments, the voices of concerned citizens like Joy and Janie underscore the need for careful planning to ensure that infrastructure keeps pace with growth. The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing these community concerns and determining the future of the proposed townhome project.