The city of Banks will once again close the Arbor Village development to outside traffic on Halloween.
The city first closed off the development in 2024 at the behest of local citizens over traffic and safety concerns.
On Oct. 31, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., NW Trellis Way and NW Oak Way will be blocked by deputies, who will only allow local drivers in. Everyone else should expect to enter the neighborhood on foot.
"The City received multiple citizen requests from last Halloween to shut down a couple of city streets (due to speeding, increased traffic, illegal parking, and increased pedestrian traffic) for the safety of the children that are out trick-or treating," the city said in 2024.
Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies will allow access to Arbor Village residents, while out-of-neighborhood motorists will need to park at Sunset Park, the Banks High School, or the Banks Elementary School to access the neighborhood for trick-or-treating purposes.
"We appreciate your cooperation in making Halloween safe and enjoyable for everyone," the city said.
The move grew out of discussions between city councilors after local residents expressed concern about traffic in the neighborhood following the death of a child in 2023.
On Oct. 3, 2023, a young child was struck and killed by a motorist in Arbor Village.
At a following city council meeting, deputies, councilors, and at least one community member discussed traffic safety in the development.
