As a resident of our beautiful and peaceful neighborhood, the proposal to expand Hartmann Drive is something that profoundly worries me and my family. This isn't just about a new road; it's about preserving the tranquility and safety of our community. Imagine children playing in the yards where they feel secure and free, a feeling that is undoubtedly threatened by the potential hazards that a major roadway could bring right to our doorsteps. 

The expansion of Hartmann Drive promises more than just convenience for commuters; it threatens to disrupt the lives of families who have invested not just money, but their lives, in this community. Families like mine chose this area because of its quiet streets and tight-knit community. With increased traffic, noise pollution, and potential safety risks, the very essence of our neighborhood is under threat. Studies show that increased traffic can lead to higher accident rates in residential areas.

But it's not just about safety and health; it's about preserving the value and integrity of our homes. Property values in nearby areas could potentially decrease, as neighborhoods traditionally see a dip in property worth when major roads encroach.

Instead of expansion, we should be looking into alternative solutions that protect our neighborhoods and promote more sustainable transportation options. Developing improved public transportation, enhancing existing road facilities, and implementing smart urban planning solutions are just a few ways to accommodate growth without compromising community values.

People’s property is being forcibly bought in order to build Hartmann Drive through what is currently privately owned and maintained undeveloped land. The neighborhoods that Hartmann is expected to connect through are communities of young families, with kids who ride bikes and play ball in close proximity to where people will inevitably be hitting 40 to 50 mph speeds. The current section of Hartmann already developed in The Villages of Hunters Point neighborhood is already a safety hazard to the residents who own property living this road and although concerns have been raised, the roadway remains largely under patrolled by police. 

Furthermore, there is absolutely no justification for continuing to develop more infrastructure to squeeze more people into the City of Lebanon when the existing infrastructure is disgustingly inadequate to support the growth. The tax profit seems to be the only motivator in wanting to draw people into the area, while the consequences of overpopulation and poor planning seem to only fall on the residents of the town and continue to be disregarded by the City officials until their hand is forced to address it because it’s pouring into the streets (for example, the current South Cumberland flooding issue). 

Please join me in urging the local government to reconsider the proposed expansion of Hartmann Drive. By signing this petition, you contribute to a cause that values safety, community, and the environment. Stand with us to protect our neighborhood's character and future. Sign today!