A major topic of discussion was the intersection at U.S. 41 and State Road 54, which has been a focal point for approximately ten years. Traditionally, plans have suggested elevating State Road 54 over U.S. 41. However, recent considerations shift towards possibly elevating U.S. 41 over State Road 54. This change is intended to enhance traffic flow and reduce the right-of-way needs. A projected six-month delay in project development was acknowledged, but this delay is expected to be offset by a significant reduction in anticipated right-of-way costs. The board recognized the need to resolve access issues on the west side of the road due to the railroad, contributing to the revised approach.

Collaboration with neighboring Hillsborough and Pinellas County commissioners was noted as a positive development. The meeting also addressed the importance of regional collaboration, referencing discussions that underscored the need for improved transportation connections, especially with ongoing developments in the area. The connection at Sun Lake was identified as a issue, with calls for action to advance this project, even if it begins as a two-lane road, due to its role in linking two major arterials, 52 and 54.

Concerns were raised about the timeline for construction, with estimates suggesting construction could begin seven years from now, leading to apprehensions about the project’s relevance by the time it is completed. The potential for eminent domain was discussed, although the possibility of advanced acquisition for willing sellers was noted. A suggestion was made to convene a meeting with affected property owners to streamline the right-of-way acquisition process, a method previously successful in expediting a sidewalk project.

Another topic was the transit development plan for Go Pasco, which serves as a 10-year strategic vision following a comprehensive operational analysis. The plan includes proposed transit needs such as new services, enhancements to existing services, and the introduction of microtransit options. Two bus rapid transit (BRT) routes were proposed, one on U.S. 19 and the other on Highway 54, designed to provide quick and convenient transit solutions. The outreach efforts for the TDP engaged more than 500 individuals and received approximately 300 survey responses.

A discussion arose regarding the Ridge Road connector and the potential for a park-and-ride structure at the intersection with the Sun Coast Parkway. Concerns were expressed about ensuring the consultant’s study included considerations for this connector, and a call for collaboration among various agencies was made to facilitate this project. It was noted that there is available land at Ridge Road and the Sun Coast Parkway, which could be utilized for such a facility.

Bike storage on public transit was also a point of focus. The current setup allows for two bikes per bus, with concerns about potential delays for riders who miss their buses. The board discussed the possibility of internal bike storage solutions, requiring the retrofitting of existing buses or implementation in future purchases. The importance of accommodating cyclists within the transit system was underscored as a critical consideration for enhancing overall accessibility and service efficiency.

The meeting also addressed safety improvements, notably along Bellamy Brothers Boulevard, which are expected to begin construction in 2027 and 2028. Discussions highlighted the road’s high accident rates, particularly involving large trucks, and emphasized the need for widening the road and altering passing zones to enhance safety. Additionally, there was a focus on ensuring sidewalks and multi-use paths provided safe access for residents, particularly in new residential developments along State Road 52.

In terms of budgetary matters, the board approved a list of transportation improvement projects reflecting an investment of over $560 million in the county’s transportation system over the next five fiscal years. The approval included a request to explore spray jacket technology to enhance roadway durability. This innovative solution aims to reduce the need for frequent road repairs, similar to the situation with U.S. 19.