Batavia officials’ recent decision to add bike lanes on Millview Drive led to a robust debate among local residents.

At a Committee of the Whole meeting on August 13, numerous homeowners expressed opposition to the plan, which would eliminate about half of the on-street parking along the route.

Ultimately, officials voted to implement bike lanes from Main Street to the north end of Towne Avenue.

Key concerns raised by residents included:

• Reduced property values due to limited parking

• Potential conflicts between neighbors over remaining parking spaces

• Disruption to delivery and maintenance services

• Inconvenience for hosting guests and family gatherings

• Doubts about the necessity of bike lanes given perceived low bicycle traffic

Some residents also questioned the safety benefits of the bike lanes, arguing that other issues like semi-truck traffic and the need for a traffic signal at Route 31 and Millview Drive were more pressing concerns.

In response to these concerns, the council agreed to send explanatory letters to Millview Drive residents and seek their feedback for future projects.

Read more in this Shaw Local article.

Watch the Committee of the Whole meeting recording.

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