By Noah Alatza
In a story published in Current in Westfield’s July 18 edition, “Leaders, Willow Creek neighbors meet to discuss fate of Ind. 32 corridor,” it was stated that Willow Creek is the only neighborhood in the City of Westfield that has only one entrance and exit on a state road. Neighbors expressed concern that two other subdivisions, Timberbrook Run and Newby Heights, also have one entrance. The difference, according to city records, is that Timberbrook Run also has an emergency exit for flooding vehicles in the rear of the neighborhood, which Willow Creek does not. Newby Heights has an exit leading to Shamrock Boulevard which is sometimes gated during school hours.
Three-year resident of Timberbrook Run, Matthew Stach, said residents only use the exit in times of extreme flooding.
“From what I understand, it’s drivable, it sits in the back of our subdivision,” Stach said. “It’s a piece of grass, essentially, that drives up to Sanders Glen. When the front has flooded in years past, drivers had to use this to get in and out.”
Timberbrook Run has no established Homeowners Association. With approximately 30 to 40 homes, most residents have lived in the subdivision since the 1990s. Stach said he is one of the few younger families with children. The neighborhood relies entirely on two neighbors to maintain the grounds near the front entrance.
Stach said depending on the time of day or year, the traffic flow from Union Street can back up to the front entrance.
“Certain times of the year are the worst, especially during the school year,” he said. “In the morning from about 7:30 to 8:15, school traffic westbound headed toward (Union Street) backs up past our neighborhood. Rush hour is even more difficult. The lights at (Carey Road) and (Union Street) are poorly timed.”
Despite a five-year timetable before the state makes any significant changes to Ind. 32, residents are already asking what is next. Although no further meetings are planned in the near future, Stach said he “would certainly” be willing to attend public hearings or meetings and is sure other residents are eager to, also.
