Hi Nicole,
We had a major traffic control change two years ago. My community sits between two busy roads, and one of them was changed to have permanent barriers put up so entry onto our street was no longer possible. 6 bus lines also had to be re-routed up the street on our other side too, further increasing traffic.
The problems in increased traffic continue to this day, and is now our #1 reason for move out. During the initial construction work, I posted flyers around the building and in the common areas to let residents know. I met with the county representatives and had them create and provide the flyers. I planned a retention so residents could discuss it together and with me.
To access my building now, you must approach from the tiny two lane road on one side, instead of from the 5 lane road on the other side. It doesn't help that this little two lane road is also the access point for the largest shopping mall in my area.
Our clientele is slowly changing. We now have to attract more prospects who commute via public transit and those who work nearby, at the mall or other local business within an easy commute. Also, we attract more shift workers who wont be hindered as much by rush hour traffic. These residents have different lifestyles that bring a new set of issues- such as noise complaints from daytime sleepers, and parking complaints from swing shift workers. We couldn't have known to prepare for these problems, but now we make sure all prospects know our quiet hour and parking policies before moving in.
It sounds like this change will be inconvenient for many of your current residents, but will make your property easy to get to for some also. Be flexible and open to the changes that will come so your residents will be too. The changes might be bigger and more permanent that you can know right now.
Good Luck!!
Rose