A significant portion of the meeting focused on a presentation by the Palm Beach County Transportation Agency about Transportation Alternatives, led by Mary McNicholas and Trish Bar. They outlined a project initiated in April 2019 aimed at creating multi-use trails, including crossings and a trail along Okeechobee Boulevard. The project’s goal is to foster non-motorized transportation options and enhance community connectivity. Bar, drawing from her extensive experience in Florida, emphasized the project’s conceptual nature, which would evolve through feedback from various stakeholders. She highlighted the need for a vision that connects different community parts while protecting users from vehicular traffic.

The project was initially estimated to cost approximately $1.39 million, with federal funding anticipated. However, rising construction costs could push the budget closer to $1 million. Bar suggested implementing the project in phases, drawing parallels to how similar communities have gradually achieved their infrastructure visions. The presentation underscored the collaborative nature of the initiative, inviting committee members to contribute their input and help shape the community’s trail system.

Safety concerns for equestrians were a recurring theme throughout the meeting. Attendees noted the lack of safety features in some areas frequented by pedestrians, cyclists, and equestrians. Suggestions included installing flashing signs at horse crossings and extending bike trails into intersections to improve visibility. Concerns were raised about the visibility of existing signs, especially under bright conditions, and the potential use of advanced beacons activated by a button press to alert drivers. The idea of a four-foot fence to prevent horses from straying too close to roads was also discussed, alongside the feasibility of relocating horse trails to safer positions away from traffic.

The council also debated the financial implications of these safety enhancements and the need for advanced communication regarding equestrian safety. The potential dangers posed by traffic along Okeechobee Boulevard were emphasized, with suggestions for innovative safety measures such as stamped asphalt crosswalks to enhance visibility. The necessity of creating an expectation among drivers to recognize and respect equestrian crossings was highlighted as crucial for rider safety.

In addition to trail safety, the meeting addressed broader infrastructure concerns, particularly regarding road conditions and utility maintenance. The ongoing challenges with maintaining trails and roads were noted, with a backlog of over $80 million worth of necessary work to bring town infrastructure up to standard. The condition of the trails, particularly for equestrian use, was a prominent concern due to their narrowness and potential erosion along canal banks. Suggestions for stabilization of these banks were made, acknowledging the challenges posed by current staffing levels.

Discussions about utility maintenance revealed frustrations over improper wire management by service providers, including Florida Power and Light and AT&T. Residents expressed dissatisfaction with unresolved issues, such as exposed wires and debris from Hurricane Milton, which complicated cleanup efforts. The council acknowledged the limitations of the Public Service Commission in regulating these services and encouraged residents to continue pressing service providers for solutions.

The meeting concluded with the swearing-in of a new committee member for the Roadway, Equestrian Trails, and Greenway Advisory Committee, followed by the election of a chair and vice chair. Concerns about the timeline and funding for proposed projects were raised, with skepticism expressed regarding the availability of federal funding. Nonetheless, the importance of preparing for grant applications and having a plan in place if funding becomes available was emphasized.