A large turnout of 130 Estero area residents identified their most important road and traffic issues at an April 17th Engage Estero Community Meeting. Don Scott, AICP, Executive Director of Lee County’s Metropolitan Planning Office addressed the residents and informed them of many projects in the works.
He also talked about why developments are outpacing road infrastructure. He discussed the funding options, what seemed feasible and what are the ramifications. e.g. Increasing sales tax, impact fees, gas tax.
A question and answer session gave residents a chance to share their various concerns.
The biggest issue seemed to be about the expansion of Interstate 75 from six lanes to 10 lanes. Many residents came prepared with detailed questions and statements regarding the issue of noise and the status of detailed studies being considered by FDOT.
Brian Bollas from the FDOT regional office was also scheduled to speak on the latest I-75 expansion to 10 lanes from 6 lanes, but regrettably had to cancel his attendance one day before the event “due to unforeseen circumstances.” Brian Bollas said FDOT “will be happy to discuss our projects at a future date in the Fall.”
“We take public comments very seriously and scheduling issues does not imply we do not consider public comments important. We welcome and address all comments and until such time when we are available to attend the group’s meeting, the public can submit comments, questions, and concerns via our project website.”
WINK News also attended the event and taped many of the speakers who had questions. Engage Estero indicated at the meeting their plans to provide a copy video to FDOT for their review.
Several speakers from CopperLeaf referenced the need for correct noise abatement and asked that FDOT at least hear their concerns. They were disappointed that FDOT did not attend the meeting.
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