PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A study is ready to begin on how to put a pedestrian bridge under US-19, one of the most dangerous highways for walkers in the state.
US-19 is one of the busiest highways in the state, and right next to one of the most sought after places to go in Pasco County.
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But for walkers, it’s a problem
"What this project is really about is to bridge US-19. Connecting neighborhoods from the east side of US-19 to the west side," said Nectarios Pittos, Pasco County Planning and Development Director.
The proposed plan is to build a pedestrian bridge under US-19 at the Pithlachascotee River so walkers can safely cross.
Back in 2007, Port Richey did the same study on the area, but now the numbers are outdated. The new study will begin this summer.
Pittos says the proposed plan is to give people better access to one of the county’s few waterfront areas.
"It could bring those people into Miller’s Bayou where there are restaurants and other types of local businesses, create a sort of downtown atmosphere of sorts," said Pittos.
The state legislature just approved $1 million to go into the project, only one-third of what the county was asking.
Some businesses we spoke with thought the money could be better used on expanding parking in the tight and busy area.
The county says during the study people will have the chance to give their input on the bridge proposal.
