A “Kickoff Meeting” was held by executives of Florida Turnpike Enterprise and Kimley-Horn Associates, Inc., project engineering firm, 6 PM, Tuesday evening, May 20, 2008 at the Embassy Suites Hotel, Boca Raton to explain the Project Development and Environment Study (PD&E) Kimley-Horn will conduct for the Florida Turnpike.

In a large meeting room, lined with a dizzying array of panel after panel illustrating the route of a proposed future Turnpike widening, from the Sawgrass Expressway to the Atlantic Ave. exit on the Turnpike, principal speaker Paul Cherry, Project Manager of Kimley-Horn outlined the preliminary study his firm will undertake over the next 12 months to evaluate the impacts of widening the Turnpike to eight lanes by adding two additional lanes (one in each direction), as well as environmental issues.

Palm Beach County long range road plans through 2030 lists the construction of an alternative new Turnpike exit at one of three locations: Clint Moore, Yamato or Palmetto Park Road.

Cherry made it clear that design and construction for the turnpike widening and improved turnpike exit are not currently funded; that this is a feasibility study that will include resident input and opinion.

A “no build” alternative will also be evaluated. Population growth through the year 2030 will be factored into the research. Cherry provided some auto traffic statistics: Presently 98,000 vehicles travel the turnpike in the Boca-Delray corridor daily. In 2013 it is projected to increase to 149,500 and in 2033 to 180,000.

Paul Cherry concluded his presentation stating: “Results of this study are anticipated to be revealed at a public information meeting one year from today.”

I aksed State Representative Kelly Skidmore who was present, her opinion of the proposed road widening project. She replied, “While we have to prepare for population and vehicle growth, I would like to see planning that would benefit the children of our communities, with bicycle paths and additional recreational facilities.”

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