Sicklerville is facing a critical juncture as the construction of apartments accelerates at an alarming rate. Recently, over 300 apartments were completed on Sicklerville Road, and plans are already underway for nearly 500 more units on Chews Landing Road, just a couple of miles away. This surge in development raises serious concerns, particularly because this area is part of our vital wetlands, which play an essential role in maintaining biodiversity and mitigating climate change.
Environmental Concerns
The rapid increase in residential units threatens the delicate balance of our local ecosystem. Wetlands are crucial for filtering pollutants, absorbing floodwaters, and providing habitats for numerous species. Building on or near these areas not only disrupts these natural processes but also puts our environment at greater risk. As we continue to lose these precious lands, we face the potential for increased flooding, loss of wildlife, and diminished air quality.
Safety Risks and Infrastructure Strain
With the influx of new residents comes heightened traffic congestion, particularly along Cross Keys Road, which has already seen a troubling rise in accidents. The current infrastructure is not equipped to handle the increased volume of vehicles. As more apartments fill up, the likelihood of accidents will only grow, endangering the safety of all residents.
Moreover, this rapid population increase necessitates additional public services. Winslow Township’s population has grown by nearly 10% over the last decade, significantly outpacing the state average. This growth will require more police officers, EMTs, and teachers to adequately support the larger community. Without planning for these essential services, we risk overwhelming our current systems, which could lead to longer response times and diminished quality of education.
A Call to Action
We must protect our community from further harm by putting a halt to these developments until proper measures for public safety and environmental protection are implemented. Local leaders and community members must come together to advocate for responsible development practices that prioritize the needs of both people and the environment.
This is a crucial moment for Sicklerville. By demanding accountability and careful consideration of future developments, we can work toward a more sustainable and safe community for all residents. It is imperative that we act now to preserve our wetlands and ensure that our infrastructure and public services can adequately support the growing population. Together, we can safeguard the future of Sicklerville.
