What are the Next Steps?
Residents’ Concerns and Actions Considered
Introduction
Earlier this month, Terry Flanagan wrote, “The planned expansion of Interstate 75 (I-75) from mile marker 123 to 105, which will increase the highway to four lanes in each direction, presents significant benefits for regional transportation and economic growth in Florida.1” Engage Estero has since been informed that between Corkscrew Road and Immokalee Road, there will be five lanes in each direction – a total of 10.
He noted that “such an expansion may lead to increased traffic noise for adjacent communities, including Stoneybrook, Woodlands, Tidewater, Villagio, Villa Palmares, Shadow Wood, Copperleaf, Lighthouse Bay, and Pebble Pointe.”
Residents have shared their concerns with Engage Estero and requested information on which actions they might take. Having recently received valuable insights from the following individuals, we believe it is essential to provide this updated report.
- Carmen Monroy, Senior Transportation Manager, CTS Engineering.
- Don Scott, Executive Director of the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization.
- Nicole Harris, FDOT Southwest ConnectTM Project Manager.
Don Scott commented: “I have spoken with several of your residents regarding this issue. Earlier this week, we saw a presentation at the Collier TAC on what is being proposed to widen I-75 and how noise is being addressed. This is the biggest question/comment we have heard so far (I think they may be adding a slide or two based on that discussion, and if the attached presentation changes, I will send it to you). They will also be giving presentations at our upcoming committee and Board meetings this next month, with a public hearing scheduled for August. You will note from the attached presentation that I-75 north of Immokalee to Corkscrew will be widened to ten lanes.“…