Greenway Farm Residents Threaten Lawsuit Over Emergency Road Crisis

UPDATE: Residents of Greenway Farm in Havre de Grace are taking urgent steps toward potential legal action, citing the absence of a functional emergency access road for nearly 20 years. With over 480 homes already built, the community faces grave safety risks due to inadequate emergency access, raising alarms among residents and fire officials alike.

Residents are particularly concerned due to the proximity of a CSX train line and an industrial propane facility, warning that any mishap could leave them trapped. “If either of them has a mishap, we would be stranded in our neighborhood with no way to get out,” stated resident Robert Gibson. He emphasized the seriousness of the situation, highlighting that the city permitted housing without adhering to previous agreements regarding public safety.

When the 150 acres for Greenway Farm were annexed in 2004, it was mandated that emergency exit plans be finalized before any occupancy permits could be issued. However, as of today, the only access road remains a dirt path, secured by a padlocked chain-link fence, leaving the community vulnerable.

Residents have been vocal, reaching out to city officials since 2022, but frustrations mounted as they felt ignored. “I am tired of the games being played in Havre de Grace. I just want to live in a safe neighborhood and we shouldn’t have to fight for that,” said resident Courtney Bridges.

City officials argue that the existing emergency access complies with legal agreements, which allow for a “crusher run” path during ongoing development. However, this has not quelled residents’ fears. Senior aide to the mayor Adam Rybczynski acknowledged that a new emergency access road is being planned, intended to link Greenway Farm to a new section of the adjacent Bulle Rock development.

The proposed roadway is designed to be 20 feet wide with restricted access for first responders only. However, a timeline for its completion remains unclear, leaving residents anxious about their safety.

Bridges has made it clear that she is not satisfied with future plans; she demands immediate action on the existing emergency road. “Our request is that the emergency access roadway be paved immediately, and until such time, any new homes being built in the Greenway Farm community cease construction,” she asserted, expressing her determination to prioritize community safety.

With growing discontent and potential legal action on the horizon, the situation in Greenway Farm is becoming increasingly critical. Residents are urging immediate attention from city officials, as the stakes for their safety have never been higher.

As this story develops, local leaders and residents will need to navigate a complex mix of legal, safety, and community concerns. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding situation.

Have a news tip? Contact Matt Hubbard at [email protected] or 443-651-0101. Follow him on X @mthubb.