MCKINNEY — Residents on Hawk Hill Drive, a cul-de-sac in McKinney's Ridgecrest subdivision off Virginia Parkway, want a fence to separate a new four-lane road under construction just feet away from their homes.
"The road coming in is, as far as we're concerned, a little too close," said resident Dwayne Williams.
The City of McKinney is building the new Ridge Road as a direct route to McClure Elementary School. But no fence, trees, or barrier of any kind was planned to keep children away from the traffic — and the view out of this new neighborhood.
"If any of us want to, in the future, relocate, it's going to be a lot more difficult for us to sell our homes without taking a loss," said a worried Megan Williamson.
Residents have now united in their request that some type of wall along a 600 to 1,000 foot stretch is needed. They've met with city officials on at least two occasions this week to discuss ideas.
But it's uncertain whether residents, the homeowners' association, or the city would be responsible for building it.
City Councilman Ray Ricchi told News 8 he will help get a fence up, though it's still uncertain who'll pay for it.
"That's always the question," Councilman Ricchi said. "In my opinion, I think there could be some shared costs in this opportunity. But the bottom line is we've got to do what's right for the homeowners, the property owners and the kids. That's the most important aspect. It's a safety feature."
Residents still want a guarantee that when the road opens in August, it's something they won't see.
E-mail: jwhitely@wfaa.com
