As a local resident, I am deeply concerned about the proposed road diet on Fenton Road (between Hill and Grand Blanc Roads, Grand Blanc Twp and Mundy Township) and the negative impact it will have on our daily lives. The plan to reduce lanes on one of our main streets will inevitably lead to severe traffic congestion, causing longer commute times, increased accidents, and heightened levels of road rage. This poses a significant risk, especially to school buses, delivery vehicles, and emergency services that rely on unobstructed roads to function efficiently.

Motorists in our area deserve roads that allow them the freedom to reach their destinations with minimal interference. As a delivery driver servicing our local residents, I can attest to the importance of open roads for the essential movement of goods and services. This road diet threatens the efficiency and effectiveness of these critical operations, which are vital for our community's wellbeing.

Studies have shown that road diets can indeed increase traffic congestion rather than alleviate it. According to the Federal Highway Administration, while road diets aim to improve safety and serve multi-modal transport systems, they are not always suitable for every community. In areas like ours, where road space is already limited, such implementations can exacerbate congestion issues and increase travel time significantly.

Moreover, the changes could lead to more accidents. A comprehensive study in several US cities indicated that road diets could lead to increased collision rates due to traffic bottlenecks and frustrated drivers attempting risky maneuvers.

We recognize the need to enhance road safety and sustainability, but there are alternative methods to achieve these goals without introducing a road diet. Measures such as improved traffic signal timing, intersection redesigns, and investing in parallel bike lanes could provide safer and more efficient travel routes for all commuters.

We urge the township and county transportation planners to reconsider this proposal and explore other avenues that balance road usability with safety for all. We must prioritize solutions that maintain open and efficient roadways while addressing safety concerns without the extensive reduction of traffic lanes.

Please join me in protecting our community’s roads from congestion and ensuring that they remain open and accessible to all. Sign this petition to voice your opposition to the proposed road diet and advocate for practical, balanced solutions that truly benefit our community.