The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

History, locked in for a stay

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Pick a room — any room.

It surely will be decorated with Dade City lore and history.

At the Locke Inn — the town’s newest Airbnb rental, event space and attraction — there are six rooms, all featuring a distinction unique to Dade City. The old brick building was built in 1892 and served as the Pasco County Jail.

The Locke Inn, at 37739 Robinson Ave., Dade City, once was the town’s original jail. Constructed in 1892, it operated until 1938. The two-story brick building has been completely renovated into a six-bedroom Airbnb. It can accommodate up to 12 guests and can be used as an event space for weddings, parties and other events. The Inn also has themed bedrooms. Besides The Clink, representing the building’s history, there are other rooms that reflect Dade City’s identity, including The Atlantic Coast Room and The Kumquat Room. (Mike Camunas)

The building hasn’t held prisoners for decades, but now is booking plenty of visitors as Dade City’s newest, and hottest, place to spend the night after Lori Patrick McCarthy and her partners completely renovated the place.

“There are already a lot of venues in Dade City, but also not many places to stay,” McCarthy said. “We promote it as a place to stay, when using the other venues, or for event space for small parties or even a micro wedding (about 50 people).

“But really,” McCarthy said, “I love themes. I love when something has a theme, so that’s what we have here at the Locke Inn.”

Locke Inn actually has several themes for its six rooms.

In the upstairs, there are three rooms, each having a theme linked to Dade City’s identity.

There’s the Atlantic Coast Line Room, honoring the rail company that came through the town in the early 1900s and built the depot (now the Dade City Heritage Museum) in 1912.

There’s the Kumquart Master room, which, of course, honors the town’s love affair with its official fruit.

And, there’s also the Cattle Ranch Room to honor the town’s farming, agricultural and ranching history.

Downstairs, guests spend the night in the slammer.

The Atlantic Coast Line bedroom at the Locke Inn embraces the train line that has a long history in Dade City, and continues to run through the town.

Three rooms are grouped together in The Clink: The Warden Master room, and Cell Blocks 1 and 2, while the bathroom used to be where prisoners were held in solitary confinement.

“I think everyone thinks that everything in here is going to be old — it just kind of looks old — but everything is also brand new,” McCarthy said. “We renovated it from the ground up.

“The history is cool — its niche, and there’s all this history, which we want to honor.”

Locke Inne still features its original steel bars on the windows, including the window where visitors would come talk to prisoners.

The structure also features the original red tile roof.

Besides being a jail, the building housed the sheriff and his family.

At the time when the jail was built, the sheriff’s wife would cook for those who were incarcerated.

An antique piano sits in the lobby of the Locke Inn in Dade City. Now an Airbnb, the structure was built in 1892 to serve as the town’s original jail.

Moonshine was often on the grounds, as well, left for prisoners that requested it, while many poignant African American hymn songs also were sung there.

Architect Francis Kennard, from England, designed the building.

Capt. Augustine Henry Ravesies, who settled in Trilby after the Civil War, built it.

The structure is considered to be the first masonry building in Pasco County.

Six hangings took place there from 1892 to 1917.

“The jailhouse was an ominous place where picnickers situated themselves on the grounds for the spectacle of pubic hangings and where at least one unauthorized lynching occurred after a prisoner was seized from the jail,” according to “A Haunted History of Pasco County,” by Madonna Jervis Wise.

The Clink makes up the bottom floor bedrooms at the Locke Inn in Dade City. The two bedrooms in this part of the Airbnb have a jail theme.

There were jailbreaks, too, according to the Tampa Morning Tribune.

“It was important to keep the history,” McCarthy added. “Dade City is an amazing town, and while I’m not from here, I have fallen in love with the people and the town.”

The building sat abandoned for years, until Robert E. Meyer Jr., from Atlas Group Inc., purchased the crumbling jail in 1980 for $20,000 and renovated it.

It has served as a storage facility, law offices and even an insurance agency, as Buddy Jones owned it for 28 years.

Thirty years ago, Joan Rees discovered the original cornerstone in 1993, and it features the names of the county commissioners at the time. The stone was donated to the West Pasco Historical Museum at Sims Park in New Port Richey.

Despite the history that’s known about the jail, questions do remain.

For instance, is the Locke Inn haunted?

“Well,” McCarthy said with a laugh, “it depends on who you ask or what you feel while in the building.

An old-time telephone is part of the décor in the Locke Inn in Dade City, which embraces the structure’s history as the town’s original jail.

“I haven’t seen or heard anything here, but we’ve had people stay, and one of those people, he was crying because he said he felt something, which is kind of exciting and scary.

“He wasn’t scared, more like really excited.”

There isn’t an abundance of sightings at the old jail, except for one story.

In 1984, Tribune reporter Rosemary Brown exposed a legendary tale from local Billy Stewart, a jail detainee who spent days staring out from behind the prison bars and died.

He has been said to be seen periodically staring out from the windows.

Haunted or not, the town is embracing the work put into restoring one of Dade City’s oldest buildings and bringing its history to life, McCarthy said.

“We’re one block away from Seventh Avenue — right in the heart of town — and the whole community is so excited about this,” she said.

“They were so supportive and loving that we just didn’t knock it down and rebuild or make it into something more modern.

“It’s truly a part of Dade City again.”

(Courtesy of Madonna Jervis Wise)

Locke Inn
Where: 37739 Robinson Ave., Dade City
Details: The historic two-story building, constructed in 1892, originally was the Pasco County Jail. The structure has been completely renovated into a six-bedroom Airbnb. It can accommodate up to 12 guests and can be rented for weddings, parties and other special events.
Info: Visit LockeInn.com.

Some noteworthy events at Locke Inn/Pasco County Jail (Courtesy of Madonna Jervis Wise)
1892 – The brick jail is constructed and the marker at the Pasco County Jail lists these county commissioners: B.C. Campbell, T.F. Williams, L.S. Bradham, W.H. Haager, J.W. Clark.
Feb. 5, 1901 – A mob killed two black men, Will Wright and Sam Williams, in the jail. About 30 to 50 men broke down the outer door, then opened fire through the steel bars, shooting both prisoners dead.
Dec. 28, 1917 – The second and final public hanging takes place at the Dade City jail. Edgar London, a black man convicted of murdering his wife at Ehren, is executed by Sheriff I.W. Hudson, who sprang the trap door. Hudson was said to be unable to sleep after this execution.
Nov. 14, 1926 – Three inmates escape from the jail by digging a nine-foot tunnel. Their escape was discovered by Sheriff J.W. Hudson while on his usual rounds of the jail.

Published August 09, 2023

Bilirakis receives Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award

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U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis has been recognized for championing seniors’ rights.

He has been awarded the Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award from the American Association of Senior Citizens, according to a news release from Bilirakis’ office.

The award acknowledges Bilirakis’ continuous efforts to preserve critical programs that benefit seniors, such as Medicare and Social Security, the release says.

The congressman also championed a wide range of legislative measures aimed to prevent exploitation, enhance supportive services, ensure access to quality care options and provide financial relief for our nation’s seniors.

Bilirakis has been a strong supporter of the Older Americans Act reauthorization, which provides funding to help seniors age independently in their homes, and of the Community Development Block Grant, which funds critical senior programs, such as Meals on Wheels, the release noted.

He has fought to expand and protect access to Medicare Advantage, a flexible option chosen by nearly half of the seniors who reside throughout Florida’s 12th congressional district. Locally, he also recently secured $2 million in federal funds for a senior center in Central Pasco County and has sponsored a community budget project to provide an additional $2 million in funding for affordable senior housing options throughout Pasco County, according to the release.

“It is said that a society can be judged by how well it treats its most vulnerable populations,” Bilirakis said, in the release.

 “As a former elder law attorney, I understand the challenges that many seniors face as they endeavor to age with dignity – and with as much independence as possible. Record inflation has hit seniors particularly hard, which is unfair given that most live on a fixed income. We have to do more to ensure cost of living adjustment more accurately reflects the pressures seniors face and to ensure they have access to high quality care and treatments. I will always continue fighting to ensure a strong safety net to protect all seniors, and I am honored to receive this prestigious award.”

Published August 09, 2023

Habitat for Humanity gets $2 million in state funding

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Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties has received $2 million in state funding to address affordable housing needs, according to a Habitat news release.

“This milestone signifies a significant step toward addressing the urgent need for safe and affordable housing within Pinellas and West Pasco Counties,” the release says.

“Habitat partnered with Johnston & Stewart Government Strategies to successfully secure funding in this year’s budget,” it adds.

State Sen. Ed Hooper and House Rep. Kim Berfield sponsored the legislation and championed the cause, according to the release.

The funding will be instrumental in supporting Habitat’s Achieving the Dream of Homeownership project, which aims to construct 92 affordable homeownership units across four subdivisions in Pinellas and Pasco counties, the release adds.

The funding will be allocated toward critical horizontal development activities, including infrastructure development, architectural design, civil engineering, and other associated expenses, the release says.

The appropriation will help Habitat for Humanity to have a substantial impact on the lives of deserving families and will contribute to the overall well-being of our community, the release adds.

Mike Sutton, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, reacted to the news this way: “We are overjoyed and deeply grateful for the $2 million state funding allocated to our Achieving the Dream of Homeownership project.

“This remarkable achievement was made possible by the dogged dedication of (State) Sen. Ed Hooper, (State) Rep. Kim Berfield, and all members of the state legislature who championed affordable housing initiatives. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our committed supporters whose tireless efforts have brought us closer to our vision of ensuring everyone has a safe and decent place to call home.

“As we move forward, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties remains determined in its mission to make homeownership dreams a reality for families in need,” he said, in the release.

Published August 09, 2023

Land O’ Lakes church gets new pastor

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(Courtesy of The Land O’ Lakes Church of God)

The Land O’ Lakes Church of God has welcomed Rick and Wanice Fowler as the church’s new pastoral team. The Fowlers are both graduates of Pasco High School and continued their education at Lee University, according to a news release. They have previously pastored in New York, Kentucky, Illinois and Florida. The couple has three children and four grandchildren. They invite all to the Land O’ Lakes Church of God, at 8337 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The Laker/Lutz News hauls in 12 statewide awards

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The Laker/Lutz News recently received 12 statewide honors, including five first-place awards during the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper competition.

Mike Camunas, staff writer and photographer for the newspaper, received 10 of those awards, including four first-place honors.

This photograph, shot by Mike Camunas for The Laker/Lutz News, was deemed the top feature photo in the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper contest. The awards were for work published in 2022. (File)

B.C. Manion, editor of the newspaper, won first place in one category and third place, in another.

The stories and photographs receiving honors covered a broad range of topics.

They were singled out for recognition from more than 1,500 entries submitted by 57 weekly newspapers across Florida. The Laker/Lutz News competes in the largest circulation division in the contest.

Judges for the competition included experienced editors and publishers from California, Colorado, Kansas, Maryland, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and Washington.

Here are the contest results for work published in The Laker/Lutz News during 2022.

First place:
Education News: “Zephyrhills High ushers in a brand new look”: Mike Camunas
Faith & Family Reporting: “A smokin’ roadside attraction”: Mike Camunas
Agricultural & Environmental Reporting: “Banded together, for the birds” and “A glowing good time”: Mike Camunas
Feature Photo: “Senior prom”: Mike Camunas
Sports Feature Story: “Champions in cheerleading, and in life”: B.C. Manion

Second place
Portfolio Photography (Robert J. Ellison Memorial Award) : Mike Camunas
Education Feature: “Students soar, in this Sunlake program”: Mike Camunas
Faith & Family Reporting: “First family moves into new village”: Mike Camunas

Third Place
Hurricane Feature Story: “Pitching in to help victims of Hurricane Ian”: Mike Camunas
Sports Photo: Mike Camunas
Sports Page or Section: Mike Camunas
Community History: “Women Trailblazers: They helped carve a path for others”: B.C. Manion

Published August 02, 2023

These girls were part of the South Pasco Predators Pee Wee cheer team, who were the subject of a story by B.C. Manion that was selected as the best sports feature story in the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper Contest awards. Shown here are, front base: Lily Kate Paban, Emily Kunze, Payton Lawler, Akilah Polanco, Leah Garner, Ella Cole, Kailynn Fuqua and Isabella Wilson; flyers: Sarah Nubel, Brielle Jordan, Lilianna Haywood, Cora Parks and Kaitlyn Edwards.
Learning Gate Community School first-graders Norianna Marquez, left, and Ava DiPallo closely examine an indigo bunting that environmental resource teacher Jim McGinity just banded and soon will release. Mike Camunas, the writer and photographer on this story, received first place in agricultural and environmental writing in the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper Contest.
Zephyrhills High underwent a two-year, $33-million renovation, which included redesigning the common area to make it more spacious and to provide a prominent location for the school’s massive trophy case. Mike Camunas, the writer and photographer for this story, received a first place award in the education news category of the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper Contest.

Pasco residents to face a higher school tax bill in 2023-2024

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Pasco County homeowners will be paying higher taxes under the school district’s 2023-2024 proposed budget.

The budget includes a 1 mill increase approved by voters to support higher pay for the district’s non-administrative personnel. One mill equals S1 per S1.000 of assessed value.

Kurt Browning, the district’s superintendent detailed some of the $1.9 billion budget’s highlights at the school board’s July 25 meeting.

Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning detailed some of the highlights in the proposed $1.9 billion budget for the district’s 2023-2024 budget year. (File)

It was the board’s first public hearing on the budget, and no public comment was offered.

The second public hearing is set for Sept. 11 at 6 p.m., at the board’s meeting room at district’s headquarters, at 7227 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

The district’s $1.9 billion represents an increase of $178.2 million over last year’s budget. 

The total tax millage proposed for 2023-2024 fiscal year is 6.449 mils, that’s an increase of .933 mills, according to budget materials included in the school board’s July 25 agenda packet.

The district’s general operating budget is approximately $996 million.

The capital budget is $529 million — a reduction of $5.5 million, representing a 1% decrease.

Total tax millage for the 2023-2024 fiscal year is 6.449 mils — that’s an increase of .933 mills.

Under the proposed budget, the homeowner of a $350,000 house — assuming a $25,000 homestead exemption — would pay $2,096 in taxes, which is a $303 increase.

Approximately $53 million is expected to be generated from the voter-approved millage The pay raise generated from the additional millage will be divided among eligible employee groups, according to a summary of the district’s budget. The additional millage is expected to generate $52,672,826, according to district figures.

The budget summary includes this breakdown for distributing the additional funds for salaries:

  • An estimated $28,860,000 will go for instructional personnel pay increases
  • An estimated $10,410,000 will go for school-related personnel increases
  • An estimated $3,730,000 will go for non-instructional non-bargaining pay increases
  • An estimated $880,000 will go for professional-technical employee pay increases

The district’s increased operating expenses include the opening of Angeline Academy of Innovation, a magnet school in the emerging community of Angeline, where Moffitt Cancer Center is planning a sizable Pasco County campus.

Angeline Academy of Innovation ultimately will be for sixth- through 12th-graders, but is opening this year as a school for sixth- through 10th-graders.

The district also transitioned Mittye P. Locke Elementary, in Elfers, to Mittye P. Locke Early Learning Academy. The new center will provide a voluntary prekindergarten program (VPK) for early learners.

The district also will need additional staff to serve increased enrollment, and must spend more on retirement, health care, school resource officer contracts and increased costs for utilities, software licenses, charter school allocations and other needs.

On the capital side of the budget, the district is pursuing a number of projects.

Those include major renovations of West Zephyrhills Elementary School at Starkey Ranch K-8. It also includes construction of Kirkland Ranch K-8, Gulf High School, and the Angeline Athletic complex.

Additional projects include a classroom wing at Pasco High School, a new southwest Land O’ Lakes K-8 school, cafeteria renovations, replacement of HVAC systems, and infrastructure upgrades at various schools.

Pasco Schools Budget
The total budget for all funds for the 2023-2024 fiscal year is $1,984,819,738. This is an increase of $178,207,508 or 9.9%

  • The General Fund operating budget is approximately $996.2 million, a 17.2% increase over 2022-2023
  • The Capital Projects budget is approximately $529.1 million, a decrease of 1% over 2022-2023

Tax bills
Under the school board’s proposed millage rate,  the owner of a $350,000 house, assuming a $25,000 homestead exemption, would pay $2,095.93. That’s a $303.23 increase over 2022-2023.

Voter-approved pay increases
The voter-approved millage increase is expected to yield $52,672,826 to pay supplemental salary increases for Pasco County Schools’ non-administrative employees.

Published August 02, 2023

Add Ichetucknee Springs to your bucket list

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One could spend all day comparing Florida state parks, especially the ones that include springs, and there several in this state.

But why bother? Why not spend that day lazily going down a spring-fed river or paddling up to the swimmable spring head?

One could do just that at Ichetucknee Springs State Park.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park, in Fort White, is a 6-mile, spring-fed lazy river with glistening turquoise waters. It’s a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, with its tubing, swimming, paddle-boarding and all-around relaxing experiences. The waterways, at 72 degrees, are open year-round and take visitors down through shaded hammocks and forests of cypress, maple, oak and pine. (Mike Camunas)

Like many of its fellow sister springs — Weeki Wachee, Rainbow, Rock Springs Run — Ichetucknee is a hidden, turquoise-watered, 72-degrees year-round paradise, and it’s found in the most unlikely of places.

It offers a day’s worth of paddling up its 6 miles, or plenty of time to head down on a tube, similar to the other spring parks mentioned above.

And, like its sister springs, Ichetucknee is definitely Worth The Trip.

Phosphate state
As is true for many sites and natural land formations in Florida, this one involves phosphate.

More than 70 years ago, the land now occupied by Ichetucknee Springs State Park  was owned by the Loncala Phosphate Company. During the 1950s and ’60s, people discovered tubing, which brought college students from Gainesville to the river and springs as a summer ritual.

In 1970, Loncala sold the property to Florida for the protection of the spring-run ecosystem (and also to the tune of $1.85 million).

After it was cleaned and facilities were built, the river and springs were declared a National Natural Landmark in 1972.

The Blue Hole, found just below the head spring of Ichetucknee Springs in Fort White, is the go-to and very popular spot for relaxing and swimming at the top of this 6-mile lazy river.

The park contains hardwood hammock and limestone outcrops. Like many rivers in this part of North Florida, the Ichetucknee is fed by natural springs that boil up from the aquifer.

And, that is some of the most gorgeous water visitors will ever see.

Its blue-green currents will zip tubers and paddlers down the river.

The Ichetucknee Springs River, unlike the Weeki Wachee Springs River, has considerably less or no places to wade around. 

Weeki Wachee, however, recently put an end to visitors beaching, grounding, mooring or anchoring their watercraft on the shores to prevent deterioration.

At Ichetucknee, expect to see plenty of wildlife, from otters and manatees and turtles, and maybe even an alligator or two.

Of course, you’ll also see typical birds, such as herons and ducks.

And, in the water there will be crayfish, bream, bluegill, largemouth bass, mullet, catfish and several types of minnows.

With over 6 miles of this lazy river fed by nine Florida springs, Ichetucknee Springs boasts not just the perfect-speed current and 72-degree water year round, but shaded hammocks and forests of cypress, maple, oak and pine.

Blue by you
Ichetucknee Springs State Park offers tubing, paddle-boarding, kayak, snorkeling and scuba diving, so it’s not reinventing the wheel in terms of adventurous activities.

But it offers different views and landscapes than its fellow parks.

For starters, the river is deeper and stronger than Weeki Wachee and Rainbow River, and its shores are larger and taller.

Also, just below the unreachable spring head at Ichetucknee Springs, there’s the Blue Hole, or swimming area, that can be enjoyed by all. It’s roughly the size of a very large pool, but about as deep as an Olympic-style pool. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling.

Ichetucknee Springs in Fort White is the perfect destination for tubing and exploring on a kayak or paddleboard, and even features a few high shores of bedrock.

Near the swimming hole are picnic tables and the Riverside Grill where lunch and snacks are served. Additionally, there are nearly 2 miles of boardwalks and trails surrounding the woodlands in this area.

Visitors have options, in terms of exploring the nine-springs-fed river.

Everyone checks in at the general store/visitor center, and visitors can put in at Dampier’s Landing, which is just a five-minute walk. Here, boarders can go out and paddle up river, while tubers can do a quick float down to the South Takeout.

Both paddlers and tubers can take a tram to the Midpoint Launch. The North End Launch, which is close to the aforementioned Blue Hole and Riverside Grill, is no longer open due to environmental concerns.

Still, visitors can take a nice float down the river, to the end of the state park.

Always ‘itchy’
In all, Ichetucknee Springs is worth the trip for the same reasons nearly every other springs in Florida is worth the trip: it’s a free-flowing, watery oasis that should be on the must-see list of every weekend warrior, paddle-boarder, influencer and adventure seeker.

It checks every box that one would want out of a day on the fresh water — from its crystal clear water, to its natural surroundings, wildlife and swimming.

And, like many state park destinations, right here in Florida, nothing else quite compares.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Where: 12087 Southwest U.S. 27, in Fort White
Details: A 2,241-acre Florida State Park and National Natural Landmark featuring a scenic, 6-mile, nine-springs-fed river. The attraction lets visitors experience the natural beauty of its blue-green waterways year-round. The gentle current of a bright turquoise river guides swimmers, tubers and paddle-boarders through shaded hammocks and forests of cypress, maple, oak and pine. Pets are permitted inside Ichetucknee State Park, however, they are not permitted on or near the water. Fishing and camping are not allowed in the park.
Info: Visit Ichetuckneesprings.com, or call 386-497-1500.

Revised August 04, 2023

Dampier’s Landing is one of four launch points at Ichetucknee Springs in Fort White. This one is perfect for those looking to paddle upstream to the Blue Hole and then to let the lazy river bring them back for a relaxing ride.
Ichetucknee Springs in Fort White also includes several boardwalks and trails that hug the 6-mile river and the surrounding woodlands.
Lunch and snacks are served at the Riverside Grill near the Blue Hole at the top of Ichetucknee Springs.
Several smaller tributaries feed into Ichetucknee Springs, in Fort White, coming from natural springs that boil up from the aquifer below.

Pasco board signals approval for Seven Oaks zoning change

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The Pasco County Commission has indicated that it will approve a zoning change that will allow professional business offices on a site within the Seven Oaks community, as part of a mediated settlement agreement between Pasco County and SB Associates Limited Partnership.

The site is in the Seven Oaks community, on the north side of State Road 56, west of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard.

The Pasco County Commission has indicated it will OK a mediated settlement between the county and SB Associates Limited Partnership, involving a rezoning dispute. The site is expected to be used for business and professional offices. (File)

After the mediated settlement, Seven Oaks residents asked if SB Associates Limited Partnership would agree to limit the uses to those allowed in a Business Professional Office 1 (BPO 1) category, rather than the proposed BPO 2 category.

Jon Tomsu, a resident of Seven Oaks who sits on the community’s CDD board, also asked the applicant to abide by the BPO 1 lot coverage standards, which allows a maximum of 35% lot coverage.

Barbara Wilhite, an attorney representing the applicant, told the Pasco County Commission during its July 11 public hearing on the issue that her client is willing to accept BPO 1 uses, but wants to preserve the BPO 2 lot coverage allowance of up to 50%.

David Goldstein, chief assistant county attorney, told county board members that he read the emails that came in on the issue and did not recall any raising an issue about lot coverage.

He said the emails focused on types of uses allowed.

Chelsea Waller, an attorney representing the Seven Oaks CDD, asked the county board to delay the request to give her an opportunity to confer with her clients.

But Wilhite objected to a delay and commissioners did not grant Waller’s request.

Wilhite also asked the board to close the public comment portion of the hearing and to continue the issue, so she and the county’s legal staff can amend the paperwork to bring back a request for BPO 1 uses, instead of BPO 2.

Commissioners agreed to delay the issue to allow time to change the paperwork before a final vote occurs.

Published August 02, 2023

Public comment sought on proposed Suncoast Parkway expansion

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The Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization is seeking public comment on a proposal to amend the county’s 2045 Long-Range Transportation Plan to include the widening of the Suncoast Parkway, from the Hillsborough County line to State Road 52.

The amendment calls for widening the Suncoast Parkway in Pasco County from four lanes to eight lanes from the Hillsborough County line to State Road 54; and, from four lanes to six lanes, from State Road 54 to State Road 52.

The public has been invited to weigh in on a proposed widening of the Suncoast Parkway. The widening would be between the Hillsborough County line and State Road 52, in Pasco County. The expressway would be widened from four lanes to eight lanes from the Hillsborough County line to State Road 54, in Pasco; and from four lanes to six lanes, from State Road 54 to State Road 52, also in Pasco. (Mike Camunas)

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise (FTE) are seeking the change to the long-range transportation plan (LRTP).

The Mobility 2045 LRTP includes recommended highway, public transportation, bicycle, pedestrian and freight facility improvements that are planned over a 25-year time horizon, according to a posting on the Pasco MPO’s web page, on the Pasco County website.

The plan identifies strategies and improvements aimed at alleviating congestion, improving safety, and promoting increased system efficiency, the posting says.

In addition to physical improvements, strategies include systems management techniques and coordination with land use planning and development activity.

In drafting the adopted Mobility 2045 LRTP, considerations included different modes of transportation to accommodate the movement of people and goods throughout Pasco County and the region, the posting adds.

The notice, posted by the Pasco MPO, alerts the public of an opportunity to provide input on the proposed amendment to plans for the Suncoast Parkway.

The public is entitled to a reasonable opportunity to comment, in accordance with the MPO’s Public Participation Plan and in compliance with federal law and Florida statutes, the posting adds.

The comment period began on July 17 and continues through Aug. 16.

Comments received during the comment period will be recorded by MPO staff and provided to the appropriate parties for review. 

The Pasco County MPO is responsible for countywide transportation planning. Its board members are made up of elected leaders from Pasco County, Dade City, Zephyrhills, New Port Richey and Port Richey.

The Pasco MPO board will consider the requested amendment to the Mobility 2045 LRTP at their regularly scheduled meeting on Aug. 17 at 10 a.m., in the Pasco County Commission’s boardroom, on the first floor of the West Pasco Government Center, 8731 Citizens Drive, in New Port Richey.

The proposed amendment to the Mobility 2045 LRTP is available for public review and comment in the Metropolitan Planning Organization section of the Pasco County Public Notices web page and at the MPO Office at the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey. Persons wishing to obtain additional information, or a copy of the proposed Mobility 2045 LRTP amendment, may call the MPO at 727-847-8140, ext. 8804.

NOTE: Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise is conducting a Project Development and Environment Study to evaluate alternatives for widening Suncoast Parkway/State Road 589 from south of Van Dyke Road to north of State Road 52, approximately 16 miles. The study also is evaluating a potential new interchange north of State Road 54 and improvements to existing interchanges. The study began in the spring and is is anticipated to be completed in summer 2025.

Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise will hold a public information meeting and public hearing for the project, but that has not yet been scheduled. Until the meetings are held, anyone interested in obtaining more
information or commenting on the project can contact the project manager, Anil Sharma, P.E., via email at or via phone at 407-264-3041.

Published August 02, 2023

Clinton Avenue repaving in Dade City delayed

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(Mike Camunas)

The repaving project of Clinton Avenue in Dade City has been delayed indefinitely, according to a news release from Pasco County.

The pavement rehabilitation project had been set to begin July 28, with crews resurfacing the existing roadway and adding new pavement markings.

The county sent out a news release on July 26 saying a new completion date has not been determined.

The segment of Clinton Avenue under construction runs from U.S. Highway 301 to Old Lakeland Highway – in both directions.

When the project does resume, the county said to expect minor delays.

Work hours on the project will be Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

County officials also said to expect single-lane closures with message boards directing traffic during the weeks-long project, depending on weather conditions.

Published August 02, 2023