Quebec Premier Jean Charest said he'll do what he can to make sure a barrier to be built on an unguarded road near the Vermont border doesn't impede community life.

Charest met with residents of Stanstead, Que., and Derby Line, Vt., Tuesday night to discuss the barrier, which will increase security along the border.

Many expressed concern about the physical barrier blocking traffic flow, business and people along the border, which runs through the twin towns.

Charest said he'll talk to federal authorities about "how they're doing this, and we'll press them to make sure that they do it in a way that allows this community to function as it has in the past," he told people at the meeting.

Vermont Gov. Jim Douglas also attended the meeting.