A resident named Charles K., a lifelong Pasco County resident, voiced his frustration over the deteriorating condition of St. Joe Road, describing it as “horrifying” and in poor condition for years. He emphasized the road’s worsening state since the county took over its maintenance and questioned the prolonged delay in repairs, particularly at a problematic intersection. This led to a discussion where a commissioner acknowledged the road issues and explained a recently voted method to fund road paving. The new system would require every homeowner in the county to contribute an annual fee of approximately $85 to $100 for road maintenance, replacing the previous system that often led to delays due to the necessity of a majority vote for approval.

The meeting then shifted focus to traffic speed limits, particularly on State Road 52. Concerns were raised about the reduction of speed limits from 55 mph to 45 mph on a newly constructed four-lane road. One participant questioned the rationale behind lowering the speed limit. FDOT representative Justin Hall clarified that the speed limit reduction was influenced by approved developments in the area, which anticipate increased traffic volumes. Hall affirmed that FDOT regularly evaluates speed limits based on traffic patterns and accident trends, and a speed study for Moon Lake Road was agreed upon.

Public transportation updates were provided by Nina Elin, the director of Go Pasco. Elin reported a 4% increase in ridership compared to the previous year, with approximately 55,000 people transported monthly on fixed routes. She discussed ongoing capital projects, including efforts to improve bus stop accessibility, noting that only 40% of the 1,122 bus stops in Pasco County comply with ADA standards. Elin also mentioned a contract for an intelligent transportation system expected to be implemented by Spring 2025, which aims to enhance data collection and provide real-time information about bus locations. Additionally, new transfer stations in Zephyrhills and Port Richey are anticipated to begin construction in approximately two years.

The meeting also covered the challenges and costs associated with electric buses. Elin explained that the grants received were insufficient to cover the costs of electric buses, which are around $1.3 million each, while the grants only offered about $300,000. She noted the need for significant investment in infrastructure for charging stations and specialized mechanics for electric buses.

Discussions about the design and construction of bus stops highlighted a need for uniformity and efficiency in engineering practices. Concerns regarding the engineering process delaying the construction of new bus stops were raised. Attention was also given to the transfer station being established in Port Richey and another planned in Zephyrhills, with discussions on the design of bus shelters to deter issues with homeless individuals using them as residences.

Infrastructure projects, particularly focusing on bridge construction and safety measures at intersections, were also discussed. Construction funding for a bridge is secured for fiscal years 2026 or 2027, with a grant application for the Bridge Investment Program submitted. Modifications at the intersection of US 19 and Grand Boulevard were highlighted, aimed at improving safety and operational efficiency by adding separate turn lanes and potentially allowing golf carts to cross.

The meeting also addressed the feasibility of extending Ridge Road to Interstate 75 (I-75). Differing perspectives on its necessity and feasibility were discussed, with some participants highlighting the potential benefits of the connection, while others expressed doubts about expending further resources on the project. The conversation acknowledged the challenges associated with the proposed path through Swift Mud properties and the potential disruption to neighborhoods.

Further discussions included the development of a map depicting the trail and multi-use commuter system in Pasco County. The growing use of multi-use paths for commuting, particularly by electric bike users, was noted. Suggestions were made to explore the possibility of establishing a multi-use path along a canal in the Cru Lake area for recreational purposes.

Concerns about the potential for only two primary east-west corridors in the county were raised, stressing the importance of interconnections to prevent traffic congestion on major roads like State Road 52 and State Road 54. The need for a comprehensive road grid to accommodate future growth in the county was emphasized, with a commitment to continually evaluate road connections to avoid overburdened infrastructure.