There have been numerous statements made about the already problematic site of the proposed Seasons gas station in terms of traffic and safety, and the common sense conclusion that having a Seasons there will only make it worse. What happens to the town in the case of a lawsuit involving a fatality if it was determined that concerns about just such a scenario were ignored? How does the town support itself in light of the facts presented that it is a dangerous intersection and shouldn't be deliberately exacerbated ?

The planned housing developments in the area will increase vehicular, and very likely foot and bicycle traffic. Given the ongoing increase in driver speed, impatience, and distraction that we all witness on a daily basis, this is a recipe for disaster.  

At the public hearing a resident citing a RIDOT safety report noted that 1 in 5 fatalities and serious injury accidents happen at intersections. Distressingly, at the last zoning board (ZB) meeting on April 2, it was stated that only "expert testimony" was to be considered in their decision making process, so apparently public testimony is disregarded. What then, is the point of having members of the public sworn in before they make their statements, or make any statements at all — is it only for show ? If a resident cites a RIDOT study, does that not count as "expert"?

The traffic study presented by Colbea was outdated and not reflective of a realistic high traffic period, seeming clearly biased and misleading, yet was accepted by the board. Many other claims by Colbea regarding lighting, noise, litter, deliveries, congestion, and traffic flow/safety don't pass the smell test, yet are also apparently accepted. A zoning board member who has real life experience relevant to the issues of concern refuted Colbea's claims and was shouted down by other board members. So the board apparently finds flawed and blatantly slanted statements acceptable because of the technical qualifications of an "expert," yet it scorns well-researched information and common sense consensus from the public.

Hundreds of residents have voiced their disapproval and very real concerns, but all this seems to be falling on deaf ears. No one has publicly stood up in favor of Seasons. Doesn't the town have a responsibility to be responsive to and take care of its citizens ? What is the real motivation behind all this gaslighting?

Sarah Trobaugh

Tiverton