Pasco County residents demand action against dangerous traffic and new development impacts

Concerns over traffic safety and infrastructure challenges dominated the Pasco Board of County Commissioners meeting on March 26, 2025, as residents voiced urgent pleas for action. Community members highlighted the alarming rise in traffic accidents, particularly near school bus stops, where children are at risk. One resident emotionally recounted the fear of receiving a call about a loved one lost in a traffic incident, emphasizing the need for immediate improvements to the county's outdated infrastructure.

The influx of new developments has exacerbated these issues, with residents expressing frustration over the burden placed on taxpayers to fund necessary road improvements. One speaker pointed out that while new homes are being built, the costs associated with infrastructure upgrades are not being adequately addressed, leading to increased property taxes for existing homeowners. "We should be raising our impact fees," she argued, stressing that developers should bear the financial responsibility for the infrastructure their projects require.

Concerns about flooding were also raised, with residents questioning how new developments could be approved without considering their impact on existing properties. The potential for increased flooding due to new construction was a significant worry, as was the lack of guarantees that new roads would not be built through established neighborhoods, further complicating traffic issues.

As the meeting progressed, speakers called for greater accountability and transparency from county officials, urging them to prioritize the safety and well-being of current residents over the interests of developers. The discussions underscored a growing sentiment among community members that their voices must be heard in the decision-making process, as they seek to protect their neighborhoods and quality of life in Pasco County.