I am writing as a concerned resident of Riverside Grove, Bastrop, Texas, urging our local authorities to reconsider the proposed thruway that seeks to cut through our tranquil neighborhood. This plan risks turning a peaceful residential area into a bustling traffic corridor, linking a main highway and shopping complex with another shopping area and downtown.

The safety and serenity of our community are at stake. The proposed thruway could significantly increase noise pollution, decrease property values, and most importantly, pose safety risks to families and children who play and walk in these areas. Increased vehicle traffic in residential zones raises the likelihood of accidents and endangers pedestrians and cyclists.

Many residents moved to this neighborhood to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. This ill-conceived plan undermines the very essence of what makes our community so appealing and liveable. Rather than enhancing connectivity, it threatens to disrupt the daily lives of those it will affect the most: the residents.

Moreover, the potential for increased traffic congestion could inadvertently lead to slower emergency response times for fire and ambulance services, thereby compromising the safety of all residents in times of need.

There are alternative methods to improve connectivity between these shopping areas and downtown that do not compromise the integrity of our neighborhood. Options such as investing in public transport enhancements or developing bypass routes that minimize disruption to residential areas can be explored.

I implore the Mayor, the planning board, and the police chief to listen to the voices of their constituents. Please consider the long-term implications of such developments on our community.

We need your support to stand against this proposal and protect the tranquil nature of our neighborhood for current and future residents. Please sign this petition to urge local authorities to seek alternative solutions. Together, we can make a difference.