Montura residents voice traffic and safety concerns over proposed Ortona Mine expansion

Concerns over traffic safety and community impact dominated the Hendry County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on December 10, 2024, as residents voiced their apprehensions regarding the proposed Ortona Mine project. The discussions highlighted significant worries about the anticipated increase in truck traffic and its implications for local safety and quality of life.

Commissioners expressed their unease about the projected traffic flow from the mine, which is expected to generate up to 200 truck trips daily—100 in and 100 out. During peak hours, this could mean a truck entering or exiting every three minutes. Commissioner concerns were amplified by personal experiences of heavy truck traffic on local roads, raising alarms about the safety of residents, particularly children.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of the mine's operations, including potential impacts on property values and the strain on emergency services already facing resource challenges. One commissioner emphasized the need for smart growth that benefits the county, while another pointed out the necessity of addressing safety measures, such as improved road lighting and traffic signals, to accommodate the increased vehicle flow.

Residents from the Montura community expressed their dissatisfaction with the project, citing a lack of trust in the information provided and a feeling of being sidelined in the decision-making process. Many voiced their opposition to the mine, fearing it would disrupt their daily lives and compromise safety on already busy roads.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners acknowledged the community's concerns but also noted that the staff report recommended approval of the project. The discussions underscored the ongoing tension between development and community safety, with many residents calling for more thorough assessments and transparency before any final decisions are made. The board's next steps will likely involve further dialogue with the community and consideration of safety measures to address the growing concerns.