Proposed Toll Road Threatens Historic Homes and Neighborhoods in Seminole!

Sanford, Florida, USA - Residents of Seminole County are up in arms over a proposed toll road known as „Alternative 2A,“ which aims to connect State Road 417 to Orlando Sanford International Airport. This initiative, presented by the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX), is meant to alleviate traffic congestion in the growing Sanford area. However, as Fox 35 Orlando reports, the route would traverse a residential neighborhood and even threaten historic homes, igniting community opposition.

The proposed road would cut through properties beloved to residents, with particular concern surrounding the historic home of Becky Burke, built in 1865 and cherished by her family for generations. Burke’s home has seen countless family milestones and holds significant personal value. Neighbors share her apprehensions regarding the potential demolition of historic residences and the disruption this project might cause to their community ties.

Community Concerns

As the proposal stands, residents fear the new road could split neighborhoods and negatively impact their quality of life. Several community members are voicing strong objections, leading to uncertainty around whether CFX will modify the plans or proceed as currently outlined. Burke, along with others in the area, has made it clear that the historical implications of such a project weigh heavily on their minds.

In early April, the CFX plans to hold a public comment session where two proposed routes—Alignment 2 and the newly created Alignment 2A—will be discussed further. While some community leaders support the toll road as a necessary move to combat congestion on Lake Mary Boulevard and Ronald Reagan Boulevard, the local sentiment is mixed, with many urging caution.

Projected Benefits and Costs

According to an analysis by MyNews13, building the connector could reduce traffic on Lake Mary Boulevard by up to 43%. With projected growth at Orlando Sanford Airport, the area could see over 36,000 vehicles daily by 2050 if no new infrastructure is added. However, both proposed alignments present challenges, with Alignment 2 costing an estimated $173 million and affecting multiple residential properties, while a more ambitious elevated highway option was dismissed due to its $500 million price tag.

Moreover, while toll roads can offer an avenue for infrastructure funding, as highlighted in Educational Wave, they can also pose a financial burden for residents, potentially leading to inequities in transportation access. Variable toll pricing can spread traffic more evenly, but critics argue that low-income individuals may find themselves disproportionately affected by the additional costs. The potential for increased pollution due to idling vehicles at toll plazas further complicates the scenario.

As the community braces for upcoming discussions, the balancing act between development and preservation weighs heavily on the hearts of those who call this neighborhood home. Necessary or not, the future of this toll road will undoubtedly impact the lives of many Seminole County residents.