Connectivity – A Good Theory

    As new subdivisions are proposed in Central, and they will be, one of the largest debates will likely be connectivity, or should new subdivisions connect to existing subdivisions?
    Central has always encouraged, and even sometimes required, connectivity.  There are good reasons, including: Single-entrance subdivisions add to congestion on major roadways and do not allow local traffic to stay off of main arteries.  In emergencies it is always better for first responders and fire departments to have several alternate ways to get to a citizen in need.
    Many of you reading this column will likely, in the next several years, have a subdivision proposed that could connect to your subdivision.  Before anyone gets too excited, consider the protection for the homeowner that is built into our zoning process.
    Central’s Master Plan and Zoning calls for consideration to be given to the size and character of homes and lots before the connection to an existing subdivision is approved.  In theory, this should discourage an existing street of large homes on one acre lots to suddenly transition to new smaller homes on quarter acre lots.  Homeowners should certainly be aware of any negative impact a new adjoining subdivision might have, but give the zoning process the opportunity to see that it is done right before you get overly alarmed.
    The larger community issue is traffic.  If I can leave my home and drive down a few subdivision streets to get to the drug store instead of getting out on Wax Road, my trip has been pleasant and there is one less car in the already heavy traffic on Wax.  Central’s Transportation Master Plan actually proposes these side streets and has studied the reduction in traffic that is possible with them.
    The economic reality of Central is that if we were NOT a main route for travelling between Baton Rouge and Livingston Parish, we would not likely have the businesses located here that provide tax dollars to fund our city and school system.  The historic reality is that commuters were cutting through the Central community long before we took the step to incorporate as a city.
    So, while I like to complain about the traffic as much as anyone, we all have to accept it as a part of the challenge of living in Central, and find ways to minimize the inconvenience.  Connectivity of subdivisions, if it is properly implemented, can help.  Keep an open mind.  That would be Good News for a Great City.