Commissioners in Boone County are yet to decide on the Hicks-Chambers road exchange, with discussions focusing on zoning matters.
In Boone County, a potential road swap between Hicks Pike and Chambers Road is under consideration by the local commissioners. The proposed road swap has sparked debate among residents, with no publicly available detailed record specifying who supports or opposes the change. However, when asked directly, 66 percent of people expressed their opposition to the swap, while 34 percent were in favour.
At a recent town hall meeting in February, a website was created for public input on the road swap, which netted 150 comments. One of the primary concerns raised by those against the swap was increased traffic, more lanes, less local control, and more trucks on Hicks Pike.
Meanwhile, the planning commission has made several recommendations regarding the road and surrounding areas. They have recommended widening Erlanger Road and directing or shielding lighting for the new restaurants. A zoning map amendment for a 2.8 acre site at 1681 Erlanger road aims to change the zoning from RS to C2, allowing for two restaurants. The planning commission voted 12 to 0 in favour of the zoning change for this site.
Commissioner Hand has expressed concerns about a four-story hotel in the area, citing current height restrictions in the Comprehensive plan. In relation to the road swap, Commissioner Hand asked about a physical way to prohibit trucks on Hunter Road.
The projected growth in the area will put additional strain on Hicks Pike, which is currently 2.5 miles long and 18 feet wide, and is county-owned. Commissioner Hand mentioned the need for lane widening, curbs and gutters, improved drainage, and safer turn movements at intersections on Hicks Pike.
Opponents of the zoning change have brought up concerns about semi trucks getting stuck on Erlanger Road, which is 2.8 miles long and 18 feet wide, and is state-owned. Federal funding is available for improvements on Hicks Pike.
Chambers road, which also has a rural character and truck traffic, is in line for change if the I-71 widening project happens. Commissioner Cathy Flaig asked about the planning commission's vote on the issue and was informed it was 12 to 0.
A business owner expressed concerns about truck traffic on Hunter Road, stating that signs are not effective and some drivers do not speak English. The planning commission voted 12 to 0 with seven conditions, one of which is that truck traffic would only use Hetzel Drive and be prohibited on Hunter Drive.
The fourth presentation at a recent meeting was a change in concept development plan for a truck stop, convenience store, and fueling station on a 2.62 acre site within a 9.52 acre site.
The first reading of the ordinance was held for the zoning change at 1681 Erlanger road. The people against the swap continue to voice their concerns, hoping to influence the commissioners' decision on this significant change to the local infrastructure.
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