Knoll Trail Gates Out of Service

Earlier today, residents of the Lakes of Bent Tree community were met with unexpected disruption after a vehicle collided with the Knoll Trail exit gate (hit and run), rendering it inoperable. The incident caused substantial damage to the gate structure, prompting an immediate shutdown of the exit lane. A police report was filed, and the Board members quickly began efforts to assess the situation and move toward resolution.

Since the June 13 crash, the story has continued to evolve with multiple updates reflecting both the complexity of the repair and the community's efforts to hold the responsible party accountable. Here's a timeline of developments:

We understand this may cause inconvenience and appreciate your patience and cooperation. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

UPDATE [6-13-25]:The gate damage repair project was officially put out to bid. Five contractors were contacted to submit proposals, as the Board began a review process focused on securing competitive pricing, skilled workmanship, and timely execution.

UPDATE [6-15-25]: A community-driven investigation helped identify a FedEx truck and driver using CellGate entry logs, Ring camera footage, package tracking, and debris left behind at the scene — including bolts, rivets, and mirror glass. There’s still no investigation by law enforcement.

UPDATE [6-18-25]: The Board President contacted the courier company, seeking a fair resolution for the community. These talks are centered on proving fault, financial responsibility and the scope of repairs needed to restore full function to the exit gate.

UPDATE [6-20-25]: A repair estimate and plan were received from Dallas Automatic Gate, placing the total repair cost at just under $15,000.

UPDATE [6-23-25]: In a separate but overlapping development, foundation repairs to nearby units (5164–5170 Westgrove Drive) require use of the exit lane. Contractors will use the space to stage fill dirt excavated from beneath the affected buildings, further limiting access and potentially delaying gate work.

UPDATE [6-24-25]: The pedestrian combination lock which was rendered inoperatble in the crash has been repaired.

UPDATE [6-27-25]: Repair proposals and cost estimates are under active review. With no final decision on a contractor or a settlement yet in place, there remains no definitive timeline for when the gate will be restored.

UPDATE [7-03-25]: A settlement offer has been made to the carrier and the parties will meet on July 4th to discuss.

UPDATE [7-04-25]: A settlement was signed and the Association collected $15,000 to repair the gate and fence damage.

The estimated date for the gate to be restored is July 31, 2025.

Comments

  1. Scott Guffey (5162)June 21, 2025 at 6:15 PM

    Hmmm … i initially thought it would have to be a school bus to cause that much damage and be that high. Will FedEx be paying for the damage or will our HOA insurance be taking the hit? How fast was the guy going?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. INCIDENT:
      The Board filed a police report for the hit-and-run incident and conducted its own investigation. We were able to determine who was in the community at the time of the accident, identify his deliveries, and gather photos from both resident and community cameras. We also traced vehicle parts left at the scene to a FedEx step van. The top of the gate was damaged by the grab handle used by the driver to enter the vehicle.

      FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:
      As you may recall, all owners were encouraged to obtain loss assessment coverage, as the Association’s insurance deductible for 2025 is $100,000. This incident falls well below that threshold, so there will be no insurance coverage. If the Board is unable to recover damages from the courier, the cost to owners will range from approximately $145 to $225 per household, depending on floor plan.

      Delete

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