The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners voted to temporarily reopen Homewood Road to allow reconstruction of a nearby bridge, following hours of public comment from residents who urged the county to restore the neighborhood's prior permanent closure after construction.

Engineering staff said temporary reconnection is necessary during a 9–12 month, $2 million bridge replacement and that the roadway could be closed again after construction. Residents said they were notified inconsistently and objected to language in the most recent flyer. "What we don't support is leaving that road open after the construction project ends," said resident Diana Matty, who asked the board to "give us our neighborhood back" (SEG 2111-2131).

Multiple residents echoed concerns about traffic, truck pass-through and child safety. Billy Ray O'Brien III told commissioners many neighbors received notices describing the reopening as temporary and submitted a petition showing surprise at any permanent change (SEG 2156-2211). Engineering confirmed earlier notices included the term "temporary reconnection," while more recent outreach omitted the word "temporary"; staff said the most recent outreach did indicate a reconnection but that they had also sent a notice indicating permanent reconnection in prior mailings discussed at public meetings.

Commissioner Flores moved to approve a temporary reopening so the bridge replacement could proceed without delay; Vice Mayor Woodward seconded. The board approved the motion and recorded the vote as carrying 7-0. Commissioners directed staff to ensure affected residents are notified about the plan to revisit permanence after the temporary reconnection period and to file residents' petitions with the official record.

Engineering staff said they could implement either approach (reclose after construction or leave the road reconnected permanently) and recommended community engagement during the temporary reopening to evaluate whether to keep the road open permanently. The board asked for clear comparisons of engineering differences and a public follow-up before any permanent decision is made.

The temporary reopening is intended to allow the bridge construction to proceed; staff will return to the board with additional engagement and a recommendation on permanence after the reconstruction work and the 9–12 month observation period.