ReportWire

Tag: APP Traffic & Transit

  • NCDOT to begin permanent repair projects in Chimney Rock, Bat Cave

    [ad_1]

    CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. — Construction to rebuild roads and bridges is ongoing in western North Carolina nearly a year after Helene. 

    The North Carolina Department of Transportation gave Spectrum News 1 a tour of a two and a half mile stretch of Chimney Rock and Bat Cave Tuesday to view the destruction and work to rebuild the region’s vital infrastructure.

    What You Need To Know

    • Helene washed out a portion of U.S. 74, which connects Chimney Rock to Bat Cave

    • A temporary road has been opened for local traffic

    • NCDOT plans to begin construction on a permanent road later this year

    • The project is estimated to cost $250 million


    Helene washed out a portion of U.S. 74, which connects Chimney Rock to Bat Cave, sending pieces of asphalt into the river below. The only way engineers could assess the damage was to hike there by foot.

    “It was very overwhelming seeing the challenge and devastation that was here,” Nathan Moneyham, the division construction engineer for NCDOT Division 13, said. “I think one of the things was that we knew we could do it. I think the question was how long it would take.”

    NCDOT quickly began building a temporary road in the middle of the riverbed below U.S. 74. The road came to life as engineers used rail cars as bridges. The temporary road opened in May.

    “That can serve this community so folks can go to the grocery store, go to doctor’s appointments and get back to some sense of normalcy as they start to rebuild,” Moneyham said.

    Engineers are now designing a permanent road to be built where U.S. 74 once stood. Construction is expected to begin later this year and be completed by 2028. The project is estimated to cost $250 million.

    In Bat Cave, NCDOT plans to replace a bridge that connects U.S. 64 and U.S. 74. Construction is expected to begin later this year and be completed in 2027. 

    Moneyham is hopeful this work will bring a sense of normalcy back to the region. 

    “We’ve got this temporary road established a lot faster than anybody expected,” Moneyham said. “A lot of the businesses in the [Chimney Rock] village are starting to open. The state park opened back in June. It’s really a big milestone and accomplishment, and really needed for the people that live and have businesses here.”

    [ad_2]

    Chloe Salsameda

    Source link

  • FDOT removing ‘Gulf of Mexico’ road signs on SR 789 in Longboat Key

    [ad_1]

    LONGBOAT KEY, Fla. — Officials in Longboat Key said Tuesday that “Gulf of Mexico” road signs are being removed from State Road 789.

    The city cited House Bill 549 and said the Florida Department of Transportation is in the process of removing signs within the SR 789 right-of-way that reference the Gulf of Mexico.

    The bill “requires state agencies to update geographic materials to reflect new federal designation of ‘Gulf of Mexico’ as ‘Gulf of America.’”

    In a news release, the city said this action does not formally change the name of the roadway. Streets using “Gulf of Mexico Drive” will be unaffected at this time.

    The Longboat Key Town Commission will discuss the possible renaming of SR 789 at its workshop meeting on Oct. 20.

    The city released a question-and-answer page about addresses, post office, emergency services and the possible cost.

    You can view the Q&A here.

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • New speeding cameras aim to make school zones safer

    [ad_1]

    Starting this fall, cities and counties across North Carolina will be allowed to install speed cameras in school zones.

    Senate Bill 391 includes a new transportation law aimed at improving road safety. 

    Cities and counties across the state will be able to install the new camera systems beginning Oct. 1.

    Here’s how it works:

    • A camera installed around the school zone could take a picture of your vehicle if caught speeding
    • The ticket would include the date, time and speed, and be signed by an officer
    • A flat fine of $250 would be imposed, but would not add any points to your license
    • All camera zones will be required to post clear warning signs within a thousand feet
    • Violators will have 30 days to pay or appeal the ticket
    • Anyone who chooses not to pay will incur a $50 late fee, and/or may not be able to renew vehicle registration until it’s paid

    The bill was approved in June by both the North Carolina House, and Senate. Gov. Josh Stein signed the bill into law on July 1.

    You can find more information on SB-391 by clicking here.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • First week back in school leads to hundreds of citations in school zones

    [ad_1]

    ORLANDO, Fla. — There were nearly 700 traffic stops in school zones across Orange County during the first week of school. 

    The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said that out of those stops, deputies handed out about 250 citations for speeding, for which fines are double.

    What You Need To Know

    • Nearly 250 drivers were cited for speeding in Orange County school zones the first week of school

    • All of those fines are doubled in a school zone

    • Deputies caught drivers going upwards of 40 mph over the speed limit in a school zone


    In a video posted by the sheriff’s office, one deputy even caught a driver going upwards of 40 mph over the speed limit

    “It is alarming that a lot of people are not following the law around schools, around where children are,” said Justin Battle, a dad in Orange County.

    Drivers from last week who were cited now have to pay hundreds of dollars, which is an expensive reminder to slow down in a school zone.

    Dozens of other Orange County drivers were let go with a warning, and that’s just one week.

    “It is wild,” said Katilin Page, an Orange County mom.

    Kaitlin walks home with her son Lucas every day.

    “He loves the school. He told me he almost likes it better than the weekend,” she said.

    Lucas loves school, but he also loves the crossing guard.

    The crossing guard keeps a close eye on speeders and distracted drivers.

    “Sometimes people aren’t paying attention, and he will blow his whistle multiple times, so we feel very safe with him guiding us through the crosswalk,” Kaitlin said.

    Kaitlin said she would love to see flashing lights and even more signage near Hillcrest Elementary to remind drivers, kids are here. 

    A spokesperson for the Orange County Sheriff’s Office says they do increase patrols in school zones now that school is back in session and the SROs who are already there, help keep an eye on speeders and distracted drivers.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Winkelmann

    Source link

  • Several Amtrak routes canceled after train derailment Sunday in North Carolina

    [ad_1]

    A CSX train derailed Sunday afternoon, spilling coal over the tracks and cancelling several Amtrak routes through North Carolina.

    What You Need To Know

    •  A CSX train derailed Sunday near Enfield, North Carolina, on a mainline used for passenger service

    •  28 cars carrying coal where involved, but officials said there were no injuries and there is no risk to the surrounding area

    •  Amtrak routes including Raliegh to New York, Washington, D.C. to Raliegh and Miami to New York have been impacted


    The train derailed around 4 p.m. Sunday, according to a release from CSX, on the mainline used for passenger service located east of West Franklin Street in Enfield, North Carolina.

    The derailment has caused several Amtrak routes to cancel service while crews work to clear the site.

    Officials said affected routes include Raleigh to New York, Washington, D.C. to Raleigh and several routes traveling from Miami to New York.

    The incident involved 28 cars loaded with coal. There were no injuries, no hazmat leaks or spills and no threat to the surrounding community, according to the release.

    Enfield’s mayor, Mondale Robinson, said the incident did not happen within the city limits, but rather north of Enfield near the Binderholz work site.

    For more information on the route cancellations, visit Amtrak.com.

    [ad_2]

    Justin Pryor

    Source link

  • Manatee family worries about school safety on U.S. 19 in Palmetto

    [ad_1]

    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Now that school is back in session, some Manatee County parents are concerned about the dangers of their kids walking to and from school on busy roads.

    Florida law says students who live within a two-mile radius of their school are not eligible to ride the bus. A Bay area family says their only alternative is to drive their kids to and from school every day.

    What You Need To Know

    • U.S. 19 in north Palmetto is a heavily traveled highway

    • That’s why one Manatee County family is not comfortable letting their kids walk to and from school

    • A Florida statute states that students who live less than two miles away from their school are not eligible for district transportation

    “Give them a hug and a kiss, tell them I love them, and have a good day,” he said.

    That’s how Ryan Foster and his wife start every morning on the way to dropping off their two sons at Palm View Elementary School. They say driving their kids to school is their only safe option.

    “It’s so fast right here,” Ryan said.

    He’s talking about U.S.-19 in north Palmetto. And he’s right — it is a heavily traveled highway.

    That’s why Foster and his wife don’t feel comfortable letting their kids walk to and from school.

    “And it’s busy,” he explained.

    Spectrum News/Julia Hazel

    But they can’t take the bus either. A Florida statute states that students who live less than two miles away from their school are not eligible for district transportation.

    “Shocked, really. I didn’t know that. I thought being closer to the school, yeah, it wouldn’t be a problem like that. I thought people that are closer to the school are the ones that for sure are going to be able to get on the bus,” he said.

    The family’s drive to school is a smooth ride, and the drop-off is easy.

    It’s actually later in the day when Ryan said he is more concerned — pointing out that the worst traffic on this stretch of highway is when kids get out of school.

    “I don’t even want them walking or riding their bikes to school because it’s so fast — these cars are moving,” he said.

    The situation has affected the family’s business, too.

    “I like to work till 4 or 5 (p.m.). That cuts my job by two hours. I can’t go pick them up from school, drop them off, and then go back to work,” he said.

    While Ryan and his family navigate their way through the school year, they hope the district will add a bus stop by their house.

    [ad_2]

    Julia Hazel

    Source link

  • Polk County pauses school bus camera program; changes underway

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Polk County’s school bus camera program is on hold as district leaders work to make changes.

    What You Need To Know

    • Officials say nearly 13,000 violations have been issued since the Safe Stop initiative started. But some drivers claim many of those tickets were unfair

    • Cleo Davis said he tried to appeal the citation he received, but there were no instructions on how to do so, despite state law requiring them to be included

    • BELOW: Statement from Polk County Public Schools


    The Safe Stop initiative officially launched in August of last year. Since then, officials say nearly 13,000 violations have been issued. But some drivers, like resident Cleo Davis, claim many of those tickets were unfair.

    Davis says he was driving home from work in November when he saw a school bus stop at the railroad tracks on the opposite side of the road near Recker Parkway. Not thinking much of it, he said he kept driving, since buses are required to stop before crossing.

    “Common sense just said to me… you know, me thinking that it’s no way that they’re letting children off at that location, so that’s why I proceeded to go forward,” Davis said.

    To his surprise, he received a $225 notice of violation in the mail weeks later. The violation was for failing to stop for a school bus with its stop signal deployed, and it included photos of the incident. But Davis felt he did nothing wrong, saying there were no children being picked up or dropped off.

    He said he tried to appeal the citation, but there were no instructions on how to do so, despite state law requiring them to be included.

    “I got the statuette and everything, and it clearly says that the violation is supposed to have that, but it doesn’t exist. Now where it does exist is once you get the uniform citation,” he said.

    Up until recently, drivers in Polk County who were fined for passing a stopped school bus couldn’t appeal the violation until 30 days later — when it automatically became a $329 uniform citation.

    Thanks to a new law that went into effect July 1, drivers now have the right to immediately contest a violation.

    In a statement, Polk County Public Schools said:

    “Polk County Public Schools and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office will continue to follow state law regarding the use of our Safe Stop program. At this time, we are working with local authorities to develop and implement an appeal process for motorists who receive a violation from our school bus cameras. Beginning July 1, no violations will be issued until the local appeal process is in place.” 

    However, Davis says an appeal process should have been in place from the start. Now, he’s calling on the county to issue reimbursements.

    “I want my money back. I want my money back,” he said. “I, at least, would like to be reimbursed for the cost. Although I know they can’t reimburse me for the time it took going down there, but the least they can do is reimburse the money for the citation.”

    The school district didn’t mention the possibility of reimbursement. However, it reiterated:

    “The PCPS Safe Stop program has always complied with state law, and student safety remains our top priority.”

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Zephyrhills road closure frustrating drivers with extra traffic

    [ad_1]

    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — Ongoing road work at a busy intersection in Zephyrhills is causing delays on several surrounding roads.

    Pasco County closed the intersection of Morris Bridge Road and Chancey Road closed in June for repair work. It may not reopen for several more weeks.

    The closure has been causing issues for Zephyrhills residents like Roberto Fernandez, who lives right near the intersection.

    “Long commutes if you’re in a vehicle. If you’re a pedestrian, you have to go through a lot of dirt and mud,” Fernandez said. “Even first responders are having issues with it. They hate it. They’ve made that comment to me.”

    Pasco County officials say the reason for the long closure is for road repair. Fernandez says he saw a large hole there.

    While he agrees it needed to be fixed — the closure is having ripple effects, causing extra traffic on nearby roads like State Road 56, State Road 54 and U.S. 301.

    The closure is causing extra delays on nearby State Road 56, State Road 54 and U.S. 301. (Spectrum News/Tim Wronka)

    “As far as 56 going to 301, there’s a backup that can take maybe four light changes before you can make left onto 301 into Zephyrhills,” Fernandez said.

    Officials say the project was a minor repair at first, but surveyors then found it needed more extensive repairs to prevent washouts or holes.

    Pasco County estimates the road will reopen in mid-September.

    Fernandez hopes that is the case.

    “I just hope they take care of this situation as quickly as possible,” Fernandez said.

    [ad_2]

    Tim Wronka

    Source link

  • Crews remove fallen tree from I-75 South in Pasco

    [ad_1]

    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Pasco County

    UPDATED 7:33 PM ET Jul. 14, 2025
    PUBLISHED 6:58 PM ET Jul. 14, 2025
    PUBLISHED 6:58 PM EDT Jul. 14, 2025

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • FDOT hosts workshop to discuss SunRail extension to Polk County

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — As the Sunshine State continues to grow, so does demand for public transportation.

    The SunRail commuter rail service could make its way into Polk County sooner rather than later.

    The Florida Department of Transportation is hosting a special workshop to discuss what a possible extension would mean for local leaders and residents in Haines City.

    What You Need To Know

    • FDOT staff host a special workshop to discuss plans to extend SunRail commuter service to Polk County

    • Polk County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the country, with a projected population growth of over 1.2 million people by 2050

    • FDOT says an extension of the commuter service is necessary “to support this growth”

    • The 16-mile extension would extend service to Haines City, with stations in the Loughman and Davenport areas
    • A Project Development and Environmental (PD&E) study is currently underway to assess costs, benefits and environmental factors


    Polk County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the country, with a projected population growth of nearly 1.2 million people by 2050.

    According to FDOT, more than half of this growth is projected to take place in the northeastern portion of the county.

    To account for this growth, it’s seeking to expand the SunRail commuter service to Haines City, with two additional stations in Loughman and Davenport.

    FDOT staff discussed what it calls Transit Oriented Development (TOD) concepts with elected officials and local planners.

    This concept focuses on a variety of factors, including “designing areas that are within a quarter- to half-mile of transit stations to promote transit use” and how it could benefit those who choose to walk or bike.

    “For communities investing in transit like SunRail, growth must align with TOD principles to maximize ridership,” says FDOT Communications Specialist Patricia Pichette.

    Factors like the design of streets, development, parking, housing, and jobs within walking distance of stations strongly influence the use of public transit like SunRail, according to FDOT.

    The workshop also provided the public an opportunity to engage in an open discussion with FDOT staff and ask questions.

    Right now, SunRail operates over 61 miles, with 17 stations connecting the Greater Orlando region, from Volusia County down to Osceola County.

    Some of those service areas include DeLand, Winter Park, Orlando, Kissimmee and Poinciana.

    Poinciana is currently the southernmost point of the station.

    A first public meeting to discuss the SunRail extension Project Development and Environmental Study (PD&E) is scheduled for late September.

    The study, which is still in its early stages, will look at expansion benefits, environmental factors, preliminary conceptual costs and funding strategies.

    It will also serve as a way for FDOT staff to examine economic development opportunities and ways by which it could help improve mobility.

    [ad_2]

    Sasha Teman

    Source link

  • Pasco asks for resident feedback on redeveloping New Port Richey Grand Boulevard

    [ad_1]

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Plans are being discussed to revitalize Grand Boulevard in New Port Richey. 

    Grand Boulevard is the central talking point of a new revitalization project by Pasco County government. But before any work can be done, county officials first need to hear from locals on what they should like to see done.

    The project may have implications on the area’s population.

    What You Need To Know

    • A revitalization project is in the works for New Port Richey’s Grand Boulevard

    • Pasco County officials are asking to hear from locals on what they should like to see done, including improvements to sidewalks
    • The first phase of revitalization would span from Moog Road to the New Port Richey city line, with potential plans of expanding beyond those boundaries through other phases in the future


    For three years, Rich Bosse has been honing his craft as a tattoo artist in New Port Richey, owning his own tattoo parlor W. Ink Tattoo.

    “I’ve seen a lot of growth, even in the short time that I’ve been here,” says Bosse. “It’s really grown by leaps and bounds.”

    There’s been some talk of improvements being made just outside of Bosse’s shop, with a revitalization project of Grand Boulevard on the table.

    “It’s not downtown but we’re not far from it,” said Bosse. “I think we do get a lot of car traffic on Grand Boulevard and it’d be nice to get some foot traffic and people feel comfortable as opposed to walking on the side of the road or having this not be an area that’s conducive to foot traffic.”

    The addition of sidewalks would be one of those improvements made along the road, making a wide enough passage for pedestrians.

    “Up until very recently, there were no sidewalks on Grand Boulevard, for the most part,” says Bosse. “The ability to have people walk and be able to travel on their bikes or skateboards, or whatever it is, safely, is a pretty big deal as well.”

    This first phase of revitalization would span from Moog Road all the way down to the New Port Richey city line, with potential plans of expanding beyond those boundaries through other phases in the future.

    “There’s a lot of things we’re focused on and No. 1: we want to use Grand Boulevard to make it grand again,” said Pasco County Director of Planning, Development & Economic Growth David Engel.

    Pasco County officials say they have looked at similar areas in Tarpon Springs and Dunedin, but this would be a first for Pasco, adding that these types of changes can also increase property value. 

    “We realized that when areas, these old corridors, are in decline, businesses aren’t capturing sales tax revenue,” said Engel. “Property values aren’t elevated like the rest of the county. We really believe that a lot of people are in situations where they have unmet needs, so we want to make a workable environment.”

    It’s bringing some attention to those businesses like Bosse’s.

    “If we plan on beautifying it and making it an aesthetically pleasing thing and a safe thing, then I think it’s only a benefit to the businesses on Grand Boulevard,” said Bosse.

    It’s a benefit to those who call the area home.

    There will be a series of community workshops held in the next few weeks. Business owners and residents are invited to attend. The first workshop takes place at the Elfers Senior Center on Wednesday at 6 p.m.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Bartow set to launch red-light camera program this month

    [ad_1]

    BARTOW, Fla. — Starting this month, 16 red-light cameras will be up and running across the city of Bartow.


    What You Need To Know

    • Bartow will activate 16 red-light cameras at eight major intersections on April 21 
    • City officials and local business owners, like Martha Stephens, support the program, citing frequent accidents and dangerous driving behavior

    • While some residents support the initiative, others are pushing back, calling the cameras excessive and inaccurate


    The cameras, operated by Verra Mobility, will be placed at the following eight intersections:

    • Wilson Ave. at Van Fleet Dr. / SR 60
    • W. Main St. / SR 60 at Crown Ave.
    • Holland Pkwy. / US 17 / US 98 at Van Fleet Ave. / US 98
    • Broadway Ave. / US 98 at E. Van Fleet Dr. / SR 60
    • Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at Main St.
    • S. Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at W. Wabash St.
    • Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
    • S. Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at E. Georgia St.

    City leaders plan to launch the program Monday, April 21. Officials released video showing vehicles, including semi-trucks, speeding through red lights at several of the main intersections. Though the footage was recorded during a traffic study last year, Martha Stephens, who owns a food truck on State Road 60, says it’s a perfect example of what can happen on the road.

    “The traffic is really crazy at times. People run the red lights and even though we have the arrows, they still run them,” she said.

    Since opening Hy-Tech Cuisine last March, Stephens says she’s learned of several car accidents nearby. She says one fatal incident involved her new hire, who was struck by a driver while riding her bike on East Van Fleet Drive.

    “He said he didn’t see her. You know, it’s once again running the lights. Running the lights,” Stephens said.

    This is why she says she couldn’t be more relieved that the city of Bartow is launching its red-light camera program. While others feel the same, some people took to Facebook to share their disappointment, saying the cameras are excessive and often inaccurate. One resident even created a petition in hopes of stopping the program.

    However, Bartow Police Chief Stephen Walker stands behind it.

    “They work,” he said. “We’re just asking people to obey the law. It’s a force multiplier for us as far as I can’t have my officer at every intersection all the time. Traffic is a big issue in Bartow and so we’re trying to make it safer for everyone.”

    Walker says roughly 2.2 million drivers make their way through the city every year, mainly because of the major highways. The cameras are intended to help reduce the number of angle crashes at each intersection.

    Officers will review the footage daily to check for violations. Walker says each violation will result in a fine of up to $158, with $75 going to the city.

    “Probably will be used for infrastructure improvement. You know, we have roads that need to be improved so that’s where I see it probably going,” he said.

    As for Stephens, she says she’s looking forward to the sense of peace the cameras will bring to the community. In the meantime, she has this message for drivers:

    “Slow down. Take your time. We all want to live. There’s no place you need to be that that’s urgent and if it is, leave a few minutes earlier,” she said.

    The red-light cameras will go live on April 21. Then, notices of violations will be sent out starting May 21.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Traffic delays build as SR 54 project continues in Pasco

    [ad_1]

    LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — Drivers can expect delays for the next several weeks on a busy stretch of State Road 54 in Pasco County.

    What You Need To Know

    • FDOT has daytime lane closures on State Road 54 eastbound after U.S. 41

    • Drivers can expect up to two lane closures there during the day, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday

    • Crews are fixing voids in the road

    • Closures are scheduled up to Memorial Day weekend


    The Florida Department of Transportation started a project this week on State Road 54 eastbound just after U.S. 41.

    Drivers can expect up to two lane closures there during the day, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.

    FDOT officials say this work needs to be done during the day.

    While crews were recently resurfacing the pavement, they found voids under the road — basically empty spaces — that need to be fixed to keep the road in good shape.

    A traffic back up on State Road 54 in Pasco County. (Sky 9)

    FDOT spokesman John McShaffrey says the voids are filled by injecting grout into them, and that process needs to be done during the day.  

    “They can’t deliver that kind of material with reliability in the overnight hours,” McShaffrey said. “So in order for us to get the job done, we need to do, we just have to keep going as soon as we start the process.” 

    Officials say they have the daily closures scheduled up to Memorial Day weekend.

    Crews will then re-assess if any further closures are needed.

    In the meantime, FDOT is reminding drivers to expect delays on eastbound State Road 54 and for drivers turning east on 54 from U.S. 41.

    [ad_2]

    Tim Wronka

    Source link

  • FDOT studying plans to redesign I-175 in St. Petersburg

    [ad_1]

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Florida Department of Transportation is now studying plans to redesign I-175 in St. Petersburg.

    Called the I-175 Action Plan, FDOT is looking at ways to enhance the safety and connectivity around the small interstate that connects I-275 and 4th Street.

    What You Need To Know

    • FDOT is now studying plans to redesign I-175 in St. Petersburg

    • The I-175 Action Plan will look at ways to enhance the safety and connectivity around the small interstate that connects I-275 and 4th Street

    • Neighborhood coalition Reimagine I-175 would like to see the interstate removed and replaced with a boulevard to reconnect the city

    • The findings are expected to be completed next April  

    That’s welcome news to Justin Cournoyer, co-founder of Reimagine I-175. It’s a coalition of neighbors who’d like to see the interstate removed and replaced with a boulevard to reconnect the city.

    “We see it as the Berlin Wall of St. Pete,” Cournoyer said. “It’s literally just a wall of concrete and earth. For people like me living in Campbell Park, you have 7 blocks of this where you can’t get across.”

    I-175 first opened in April 1980 to connect I-275 and 4th Street, but it effectively split the city and displaced neighborhoods.

    45 years later, Cournoyer says not enough traffic uses it.

    “It acts like a scar across the city. The permeability under the highway is not there. The connectivity is not there. It kind of separates our city into north and south St. Pete,” Cournoyer said.

    (Spectrum News)

    The only way across the interstate now is a pedestrian bridge, which Cournoyer says just takes people out of their way.

    “It’s kind of an eyesore. It’s covered in chain link. Graffiti most of the time. A lot of trash up here. It’s a neglected part of our city,” Cournoyer said.

    These are all reasons a 2022 City of St. Petersburg mobility study recommended a reconfiguration of the interstate.

    The study found that while I-175 is useful for emergency vehicles and connecting attractions, it comes at a cost to adjacent neighborhoods, especially has drivers go at high speeds.

    Since the road is managed by FDOT, the agency is now building on that study to look at what the future of I-175 could be.

    That comes as plans for a new ballpark at the Tropicana Field site fell apart in March. 

    “With or without a ballpark, I think removing 175 and replacing it with a boulevard is going to do wonders and be a huge positive impact on communities, especially disenfranchised communities in the south side,” Cournoyer said.

    The I-175 Action Plan study started in January. The findings are expected to be completed next April.

    [ad_2]

    Tim Wronka

    Source link

  • Innovative traffic tech now monitors some Pasco roads

    [ad_1]

    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A new form of technology is being used by Pasco County Transportation engineers to better gauge traffic volumes.

    What You Need To Know

    • New technology is being used by the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization to better gauge traffic volumes on busy roads

    • It’s part of a new grant with Marlin Engineering, monitoring traffic so that engineers and planners can learn how to make roads safer

    • Intersections along the U.S. 19 corridor are being monitored, helping hone in on near misses

    • The county is also using AI to distinguish between scooters, e-bikes and pedestrians with data used to count how many pass through an intersection


    It’s also helping hone in on near misses on some key roads, leading the way to safer roadways.

    At a busy intersection on U.S. 19 stands a new cutting-edge camera looking down on traffic below.

    “It’s making our intersections safer for our citizens to cross,” said Tania Gorman, executive director of the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization.

    A camera looks down on an intersection on U.S. 19. (Spectrum News)

    It’s part of a new grant with Marlin Engineering, monitoring traffic so that engineers and planners can learn how to make roads safer.

    “We are now entering into a micromobility area looking at behavior of those that are driving at our most dangerous intersections,” said Gorman.

    Right now, the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization is monitoring intersections along the U.S. 19 corridor.

    A view from one of Pasco County’s traffic volume monitoring cameras. (Courtesy: Pasco County MPO)

    “We’ve actually just started monitoring over the last month,” Gorman said. “We’ve just taken down the data for collection results. So we’ll get that data and review it and that will give us more insight to the behaviors going on at that intersection.”

    The county is also using AI to distinguish between scooters, e-bikes and pedestrians, using different colors to identify them. That data can then be used to count how many pass through that intersection.

    “There’s darting across the street and you’re just like, ‘Oh man, I wish I knew what happened’ because in the past, that’s what we’d say,” said Gorman. “A lot of our reports come from the on-scene officer or highway patrol or whoever is on scene. Now we’re able to see the crash in real time and see what exactly transpired in that moment.”

    AI technology being used by the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization can distinguish between different modes of mobility. (Courtesy: Pasco County MPO)

    Right now, the tech is being used at three different intersections, including U.S. 19 and Sea Ranch Drive. If successful, more intersections throughout the county may see the cameras.

    “That way we can have a comprehensive, cooperative and collaborative process of planning on how we’re going to identify and address these intersections that have these issues with safety concerns,” said Gorman.

    It’s all paving the way for safer roads throughout the county.

    Gorman says the next step will be to have a micromobility plan, allowing the county to expand where cameras are placed.

    [ad_2]

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • New Howard Frankland Bridge span opens to traffic

    [ad_1]

    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Hillsborough County

    UPDATED 10:17 AM ET Mar. 25, 2025
    PUBLISHED 2:28 PM ET Mar. 18, 2025
    PUBLISHED 2:28 PM EDT Mar. 18, 2025

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • 190-space parking garage in the works for downtown Dunedin

    [ad_1]

    DUNEDIN, Fla. — The city of Dunedin is a well-known tourist destination that draws more than 1.8 million visitors, and leaders are now considering a new parking garage that would provide more than 190 parking spaces.

    What You Need To Know

    • Dunedin city leaders are considering a new parking garage with more than 190 parking spaces in downtown

    • The project could cost as much as $10 million

    • Work could start around September and be completed in December 2026 if approved

    The city chose a site at Scotland Street and Douglas Avenue — close to Main Street.

    Some business owners like Soozy Naylor O’Donnell love the idea of more parking.

    “I think it’s absolutely brilliant,” he said. “We were down in Clearwater Beach for 28 years and they desperately needed parking, and I think doing it now as the city is growing … is only going to help all of us small businesses.”

    But not everyone supports the project.

    City Commissioner Jeff Gow says he would like the city to look at alternative modes of transportation to help people get around.

    “We have all of this car traffic because we do not offer any alternative,” Gow said. “They have come by car.”

    The project is estimated to cost around $10 million.

    While plans are still in the preliminary phase, officials say construction could start in September — with an estimated completion date of December 2026.

    [ad_2]

    Jeff Van Sant

    Source link

  • NTSB report calls for assessments of 68 bridges, including Sunshine Skyway

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a report on bridges across the country that need assessment. Of the 68 bridges highlighted, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge was among them.

    What You Need To Know

    • NTSB report highlights need for new assessments on 68 US bridges, including two in Florida 

    • The report comes from the investigation into the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore after it was struck by a container ship in March 2024

    • Sunshine Skyway and Napoleon Bonadarte Broward bridges need a new assessment, according to the report


    The report lists the Skyway Bridge as “critical or essential” to be assessed for risk. The NTSB wants to be clear that this does not mean it is in danger of collapsing.

    The NTSB report released a report titled “Safeguarding Bridges from Vessel Strikes: Need for Vulnerability Assessment and Risk Reduction Strategies.”

    It mentions both the Sunshine Skyway and Napoleon Bonaparte Broward Bridge in Jacksonville. They were the only two Florida bridges mentioned.

    Both are considered critical or essential because vessels frequently travel near these bridges and because they serve as important links in the strategic highway network.

    The NTSB is advising the owners of the bridges to calculate the probability that they could collapse if hit by a ship, using the risk threshold established by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation officials.

    All the bridges on the list were assessed on a scale that was created in 1991. That was in response to the investigation into the Sunshine Skyway’s collapse back in 1980.

    The recent report was released in the ongoing investigation into the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, which fell after it was hit by a container ship on March 26 of last year.

    [ad_2]

    Jeff Van Sant

    Source link

  • ‘We’ll be done:’ Local ranch in jeopardy due to potential parkway routes

    [ad_1]

    LAKE WALES, Fla. — As community concerns grow over a potential parkway being built near Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, one local rancher shares similar fears for his land.

    What You Need To Know

    • Ellery Farmer, a local rancher, fears that the proposed parkway routes from Florida Turnpike Enterprise will severely impact his land

    • Farmer says the proposed routes could lead to the loss of a substantial part of his ranch, jeopardizing his income and decades of family effort

    • He is calling on FDOT to find an alternative route that would avoid affecting his land and preserve the Lake Wales Ridge’s unique wildlife


    Since Ellery Farmer could remember, his life has been devoted to his family’s ranch.

    “My entire adult life, even as a child, I’ve known agriculture,” said Farmer.

    Farmer’s grandparents originally purchased 10 acres of land alongside Lake Wales Ridge in 1969. The land was later passed down to the generation before him. Then Farmer stepped in and expanded the ranch in hopes of one day handing it off to his daughter, but he says those plans are in jeopardy due to Florida Turnpike Enterprise’s proposed parkway.

    “The proposed B and C routes are just out there where that lone pine tree is that cuts right through there, through the edge of the tree line,” Farmer said, pointing to a section of his land. “Their footprint, they say, is 310 feet wide, but it cuts us off from the bulk of our pasture and calculates out to a quarter of the property that we own, which absolutely puts us out of business.”

    Farmer says he first learned about Florida Turnpike’s plans to create a new toll road in a letter from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The road would connect I-4 with a future Poinciana Connector, State Route 538 – better known as the Poinciana Parkway.

    Study Area

    Image Courtesy: floridasturnpike.com

    While the agency is considering four possible routes, Farmer says he’s been looking for ways to prevent the two that would impact his land. Unfortunately, he says FDOT will be able to claim eminent domain.

    “And then the Ridge will be nothing but pictures on a wall somewhere,” he said. “And there’s wildlife here that lives nowhere else in the world but on the Lake Wales Ridge. If they build an interstate for 28 miles up the ridge, it’ll be gone. It’ll be done, and we’ll be done.”

    Along with losing income, Farmer says his family will lose decades of hard work. That includes his home, which he built with his own two hands.

    “I have friends who spent three years of their lives helping me build a house, and in order to have those kinds of friends, it takes an entire lifetime to find them. So, if they put that road in right there, which is in my backyard, that house is not tenable. It’s no longer the goal,” Farmer said.

    Before the project even reaches that point, Farmer is calling on FDOT officials to find an alternative route.

    “And I don’t have any more right than anybody else to be here, to own what I own. I just happened to be here first. And I’m just asking to leave us alone,” he said. “Leave the ridge alone. Curve it just a little bit and help us save the tiny bit that’s left.”

    In a statement from Florida Turnpike Enterprise, spokesperson Yasir Mercado said:

    “We would like to emphasize that we are actively considering all comments received throughout the Alternative Corridors Evaluation (ACE). The alternatives will be modified based on feedback, and the final selected corridor could be a combination of the four alternatives currently under evaluation.

    We anticipate presenting a selected corridor for additional public input this May and encourage continued public participation. Our goal is to balance transportation needs with minimizing impacts to residents, businesses, and property owners.”

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • FHP says stolen vehicle chase ended in a crash on Lee Road in Orange County

    [ad_1]

    ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol responded to a three-vehicle crash in Orange County on Lee Road Thursday morning following a stolen car chase that started in Polk County, officials said.

    Officials say six passengers — ages 13 to 17 years old — were inside the suspected stolen vehicle.

    FHP said the 18-year-old driver of the stolen vehicle refused to stop, which led to a chase across county lines.

    Officials said troopers initiated a pit maneuver as the vehicle drove into Orange County. The driver ended up traveling the wrong way on Lee Road, striking a Honda and Chevy Malibu.

    Officials said the crash caused traffic delays for hours Thursday morning. They also said all three drivers were transported to the hospital.

    No other information has been released at this time. 

    [ad_2]

    Sasha Teman

    Source link