Old Battle Forest residents press council for answers on I-840 impacts

Residents of the Old Battle Forest neighborhood in Greensboro have asked the City Council to prioritize their district’s needs when addressing infrastructure gaps. Max Benbassat, a voter in District 3, sent a letter to the council outlining six specific unresolved issues related to the Interstate 840 corridor and local property management. He requested that council members adopt a District-First approach to ensure their diverse community receives clear answers and actionable steps.

The letter highlights the construction of the I-840 interchanges at Lawndale Drive and Battleground Avenue as the catalyst for these concerns. Benbassat noted that the area is home to working-class families, city employees, and veterans who require reliable representation. He asked the council to help residents connect with the specific agencies responsible for each problem.

One primary concern is a community space that was promised near the greenway bridge. Neighbors believe North Carolina Department of Transportation committed to providing a playground, park, or garden on land that became public after a traffic circle was installed. Benbassat asked if that commitment was documented and who currently controls the property.

The letter also addresses persistent highway noise. Residents living beside the sound wall continue to report disturbances. Benbassat requested that the city seek a noise assessment to determine if additional mitigation is possible. If the issue falls under state jurisdiction, he asked the council to provide a specific NCDOT contact for investigation.

Additional questions focus on street racing on I-840 overpasses and the condition of a boarded-up building behind the Food Lion on Lawndale Drive. The building lost its street access during interchange construction and has experienced unauthorized occupancy and fires. Benbassat inquired about the property’s legal status and any plans for demolition or rehabilitation. He also sought information on city services for elderly residents who struggle with leaf removal.

To address these issues, Benbassat asked the council to identify contacts who can help organize a neighborhood association or watch. He emphasized that these concerns affect safety and quality of life across the political spectrum. The letter asks for a clear response with named contacts and practical next steps for the Old Battle Forest community.

The letter is signed by Max Benbassat of Old Battle Forest, District 3. He can be reached at info@benbassatdigital.com.