Roundabout Reversal Creates Controversy in College Station Neighborhood

Roundabout Reversal in College Station Neighborhood

In a surprising turn of events, the residents of the Woodcreek subdivision in College Station recently decided they no longer want the roundabout that was approved for installation at the intersection of Stonebridge and Scarborough. After initially voting in favor of the traffic calming device, community feedback shifted dramatically, leading to a 30-0 vote to halt the project.

This decision comes on the heels of much time and money spent by the city, amounting to about $49,000 on design costs and over 500 hours of staff time. Councilwoman Elizabeth Cunha didn’t hold back in her disappointment during the city council meeting on October 24, where the residents’ request to stop construction was granted. “It’s frustrating to see that level of investment turn around so quickly,” Cunha expressed.

Initially, the plan was met with a favorable vote of 16 to 8. However, as concerns arose about traffic levels that didn’t meet expectations, the community rallied together, ultimately choosing to cancel the project altogether. While the council has agreed to stop construction, Councilman Dennis Maloney, who happens to be a Woodcreek resident, pointed out a silver lining: “At least we’re saving the projected $250,000 construction cost,” he stated, emphasizing the positive side of the abrupt cancellation.

The council’s latest decision also included rejecting all bids that had already been opened for the roundabout construction. Additionally, due to this major reversal, Woodcreek residents will not be eligible for any future traffic calming projects for the next five years. City staff are already in the process of revising the traffic calming policies to better clarify the pathway for future requests, ensuring everyone is on the same page moving forward.

Tragic Accident on Texas Avenue

Texas Avenue and Southwest Parkway. This unfortunate incident resulted in one fatality and three injuries. It was reported that Margie Berry Smith, an 80-year-old passenger from Bryan, lost her life. Her husband, who was behind the wheel, has been hospitalized, and his condition remains unknown. Sadly, the couple’s family dog was also found deceased inside their vehicle.

The driver and passenger from the pickup involved received treatment for minor injuries. The police have yet to determine the cause of the crash, and the intersection was closed for nearly three hours for a thorough investigation by various police departments, including accident reconstruction teams.

School Altercations Spark Concern

Meanwhile, school safety has taken a hit after two separate incidents in the area. First, three Brazos County sheriff’s deputies responded to an escalation at College Station High School.

Reports state that one student was taken to the hospital due to non-life-threatening injuries following an altercation in the cafeteria, while another student was arrested and sent to the juvenile detention center. This situation echoes another alarming report featuring a faculty member injured while intervening in a student fight at Davila Middle School.

Addressing Water Quality Compliance

lead-contaminated water lines. Public Works Director Jayson Barfknecht reported on the city’s assessment of approximately 36,446 addresses that require scrutiny regarding their water service lines.

Barfknecht indicated that while the city confirmed none of their lines contain lead, a significant number of property owners would be receiving letters regarding the materials used in their plumbing. It’s projected that remaining non-compliant lines will need to be replaced within the next ten years, highlighting the city’s commitment to ensuring public safety and health.

As College Station residents continue navigating these various local issues, community engagement remains crucial. With discussions and decisions happening regularly, it’s essential for residents to stay informed and actively participate in local governance.