The headaches of roadway construction can make daily traffic commutes frustrating and in some cases even dangerous. Recently my office has received multiple inquires related to the road construction along Alafaya Trail. As a resident of the area myself, and a daily driver of the road, I completely understand these concerns. Because of this, I’ve made an effort to stay up to date and be in close contact with traffic engineers overseeing the construction project. Below is a quick update on the current state of construction so far.
Alafaya Trail
- Several residents haveexpressed concern thatthe curve/lane shift justbefore the entrance to Stoneybrook Reserve is creating a challenging area for passing and turning vehicles. Stoneybrook Reserve residentswho travel south on Alafaya must turn leftto enter their subdivision whilecars traveling north tend to drift into the turning lane just as the curve begins and because it is sudden.Some stated they have witnessed some near collisions and it becomesparticularly dangerous whentrucks and buses pass.
- Both Traffic Engineering and Highway Construction Divisions are reviewing the contractor’s maintenance of traffic layoutand safety alternatives which would include widening thelanes. Also, the Sheriff’s Office has been contacted to perform daily enforcement of the posted speed limit.
- The curve at the intersection of Broadhaven and Alafaya Trail was lengthened and widened, thusimproving the transition flow. Furthermore,warning barrels must remain since their purpose is toprevent a head-on collision withcars in the left turn lane.
- There were complaints of ajagged asphalt area causingflat tires near the fire station at Stoneybrook’s main entrancesothe contractor widened this area and no further problems have been cited.
- The speed limit has been lowered and thefines are now doubled. In addition,the Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols in an attempt to reduce speeds.
- The traffic lane switches are now complete andsubsequent switches will not occur for another 12 to 18 months.
- There have been delays due totraffic signals being placed on standard timing rather than a detection system however, Traffic Engineering hascorrectedthismatter andvehicular flow should improve.
Thank you for your continued communication with my office and your patience regarding the roadway construction. Please remember to drive with caution and stay safe!
Narcoosee Corridor Update
A series of community meetings have been held to update the current policies regarding the Narcoosee Corridor. The purpose of these meetings is to update the current policies so neighbors can better anticipate future development in the area. The first two meetings showed great interest by residents and a good discussion was had regarding their questions and concerns. Below you’ll find several items that were discussed at the meetings.
- A request to define the issue of distance between the lake and any new development
- Cross Access Road running north and south – will there be one or not?
- Further define specific uses allowed in the area
- Architecture/characteristics of new buildings
A third meeting will take place during the first few months of 2012. Input from the public helps guide us to making the best decision for a community. As always I’d like to invite you to share your thoughts and opinions with me.
If you have any questions or concerns please contact my office at 407.836.5881 or email me at JenniferThompson@OCFL.net. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
