Charlotte County Rumor Central
Setting the record straight...
Sidewalk Construction on U.S. 41
What we have heard: Why are we constructing sidewalks on US 41 (Tamiami Trail)?
Reality: The US41 Mega Sidewalk is a FDOT and Charlotte Harbor Community Redevelopment Agency (CHCRA) funded project that, as originally envisioned, provided wide meandering sidewalks from the US41 Bridge to Murdock Circle.
In 2005 the County had 3 outstanding Local Agency Program (LAP) projects with FDOT when the LAP regulations were changed. Charlotte County worked with FDOT to develop an appropriate project for the sidewalk funds. It was decided to construct a 5 foot sidewalk on the west side of US 41. Charlotte County requested an 8 foot sidewalk which is consistent with the existing sidewalk already constructed in various areas within the project limits. FDOT agreed to the 8 foot sidewalk; however this would reduce the scope of work with the sidewalks terminating at Midway Boulevard. The CHCRA requested to have the sidewalk meander throughout the CHCRA (US 41 bridge to Gardner Street). This request resulted in an increase of approximately $94,000 which CHCRA agreed to the fund. On January 13, 2009, the Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) approved Resolution #09-005 authorizing the Chair of the BCC to execute a Locally Funded Agreement between the County and FDOT. Total project cost is $1.1 million.
Construction began on May 14, 2009 with sidewalks being installed at both ends of the project and various critical locations in between. The project was completed in September 2009.
Veteran Services
What we have heard: Charlotte County’s Veteran Services offices will be closing.
Reality: This rumor is not true. Offices will remain open.
Let us know what rumors you've heard.
