Keep Matoaca rural

Dear Editor,

I have been a resident of the Matoaca District in Chesterfield County for 30 years. During this time, I have seen many changes. Some I consider good, others I consider bad. During the past couple of years growth along Route 10 has increased dramatically. What concerns me most is the possibility that Route 10 will become another Midlothian Turnpike with a traffic light at every intersection. Do we really need to wipe out every tree and bush, just to build another shopping center, office park or planned community? This does not seem like a good idea to me. Also, what about the animal habitats that are being wiped out?

More and more growth is occurring in the Matoaca District, and I think it is time to halt this growth. Within three miles of where I live, there are two multi-home subdivisions going up. When those developments have people moving into those homes, those people will want goods and services. Currently, there are two choices: either travel approximately five miles to Ettrick or travel approximately seven miles to Colonial Heights. The people that will move into those houses will likely want something closer.

Do the local residents really want to look forward to a strip mall along Woodpecker Road? I would be almost positive that when asked, the local residents will say "no."

It is high time that the planning commission stop and take a good look at the ramifications of [its] actions. If they do not, then they should be replaced with people who are opposed to all of this growth.

In short, save the rural quality of the Matoaca District.

Mark Edwards

Chesterfield

The planning commission makes a recommendation to the board of supervisors, which makes the final decision on rezonings. Editor