Wesley Chapel residents oppose proposed road takeover, organizing a rally to voice their concerns.

Residents of Abby Brooks Circle in Wesley Chapel, Florida, are expressing concern over a proposed townhome development that threatens the quiet nature of their neighborhood. This residential area, characterized by children playing in the streets and friendly neighborly interactions, may soon be transformed by increased traffic from a new development project.

During a Pasco County Commission meeting on May 6 in Dade City, a significant number of residents gathered to voice their objections to a plan that would designate Abby Brooks Circle as the sole entrance and exit for 186 townhomes currently under construction near Elam Road. While the county commission lacks the authority to alter plans that have already received approval, initial discussions have emerged regarding potential solutions following residents’ concerns.

District 2 Commissioner Seth Weightman reassured attendees that efforts would be made to address the situation. He acknowledged the complications involved in making significant changes but expressed optimism about reaching a solution. Reports indicate that county planners, engineers, and contractors were set to visit the site to explore alternatives that would benefit all parties involved.

The proposed townhome site originally had plans for a school; however, after Pasco County Schools withdrew from the project, developers shifted their focus to residential construction. This revised plan includes traffic projections that estimate over 1,500 vehicle trips per day, significantly increasing congestion on Abby Brooks Circle, a road designed for low-volume neighborhood traffic.

Residents have raised safety concerns, noting that the influx of new traffic could pose serious risks to children and families living in the area. They urge the need for a more accessible entry point to the townhome development directly onto Elam Road rather than through the residential neighborhood. The proposal has forced locals like resident Danielle Polovich to emphasize the impact of too much traffic on safety and quality of life.

Pasco County attorney Jeffrey Steinsnyder clarified that the current project was approved through the Land Use Equivalency Matrix, which allows developers to make specific changes without a vote from the commission. Furthermore, a proposed state legislation, Senate Bill 784, could limit local governments’ ability to intervene in similar development decisions moving forward.

Despite assurances from officials like Commissioner Kathryn Starkey that the commission would explore viable options, residents remain concerned about maintaining the integrity of their neighborhood. Some believe they have identified a potential regulatory oversight in the project’s approvals, suggesting that it may not meet conditions set for the local community development district.

Commissioner Weightman and his team are reportedly exploring the feasibility of establishing a main entrance directly onto Elam Road. Such an alternative could offer not only a more practical access point for new residents but potentially enhance traffic management for existing residents of Abby Brooks Circle. As discussions continue, the resolution of this issue will be closely watched by community members determined to preserve their way of life amid ongoing development pressures in Pasco County.