Subject:
Title
Request to move to the Project Development and Environmental phase of the East Lake Road Improvements Project from south of Curlew Road to north of Trinity Road.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Request to move forward on the next phase of the East Lake Road Improvements Project from south of Curlew Road to north of Trinity Road.
• Consideration of a full Project Development and Environmental (PD&E) study to determine best corridor solutions and project phasing.
• Recent Study determined both widening East Lake Road and intersection improvements from south of Curlew Road to north of Trinity Road are necessary to meet future capacity needs.
• The Florida Department of Transportation is requesting concurrence that the County supports moving into the PD&E phase of the project.
• A PD&E is required to be eligible for federal funding.
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Strategic Plan:
Ensure Public Health, Safety, and Welfare
2.5 Enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety
Foster Continual Economic Growth and Vitality
4.4 Invest in infrastructure to meet current and future needs
4.5 Provide safe and effective transportation systems to support the efficient flow of motorists, commerce, and regional connectivity
Deliver First-Class Services to the Public and Our Customers
5.3 Ensure effective and efficient delivery of county services and support
5.4 Strive to meet the needs of all Pinellas County residents and customers
Summary:
Summary
An Eastlake Road Improvements Project Study from south of Curlew Road to north of Trinity Road was completed in October 2022. The Study examined existing conditions, evaluated needs and deficiencies, and developed concepts for future improvements. The Study determined that both widening East Lake Road and intersection improvements are necessary to meet future capacity needs.
It is requested the Board of County Commissioners approve the request to move forward with a full PD&E study to meet the needs of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to determine best corridor solutions and project phasing. The PD&E will include detailed traffic/operational analysis, safety/access, drainage, and cost analysis. It will also include a review of environmental impacts including threatened and endangered species, wetlands/water quality, historical/archaeological sites, noise, and recreation. Additional community input will also be solicited. Finally, approving this request will potentially present the opportunity to advance improvements by widening the bridge over Tampa Bay in the Study area.
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Background Information:
The recently completed Study examined current traffic conditions which included capacity constraints, volume, and safety concerns including crashes, predominant types of crashes, bicycle and pedestrian issues and fatalities. Information examined also included existing traffic at intersections on McMullen Booth Road and East Lake Road and projected anticipated traffic counts for the year 2045.
As part of the Study, alternatives were evaluated including widening East Lake Road to six (6) lanes, types of intersection improvements and interchange designs. Several public outreach meetings were conducted, and a website was established soliciting suggestions and feedback from County residents.
Fiscal Impact:
TBD
Staff Member Responsible:
Kelli Hammer Levy, Director, Public Works
Partners:
N/A
Attachments:
East Lake Road Improvements Project Update PowerPoint