The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) recently began installing a galvanized steel chain-link fence above the sides of the high Wabasso/Route 510 bridge, in order to provide for the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians.
Many residents have expressed their concern that the chain-link fence will have a significantly adverse visual impact. In response, Orchid's Mayor Gibbons collaborated with the Mayor of Indian River Shores to convince FDOT to temporarily suspend installation of the chain-link fence in order to evaluate alternative solutions that not only effectively address the important safety concerns, but that also respect the aesthetic environment.
On September 3, FDOT confirmed that the chain-link fencing project for the High 510 bridge would be put on hold, pending consideration by its Operations Department and the Indian River County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) (which had originally requested safety barriers for the bridge) of reasonable alternatives that would better address visual impact as well as safety. This temporary suspension of the project engenders optimism that an appropriate solution will be forthcoming. However, FDOT officials have noted that a change of plans to achieve a reasonable solution to visual aesthetic, as well as safety, concerns at this late stage will be costly.
When more information is available regarding options for the bridge, the alternatives will be presented for consideration at a future Board Meeting of the MPO to be held in a setting open to the public.
The participation of a broad spectrum of barrier island residents affected by this project is crucial to attaining a reasonable outcome. FDOT and the MPO will be attentive to input. Provided below for your convenience is contact information for officials involved in this process.
Florida Department of Transportation
- Kris Kehres, Operations Engineer for FDOT Treasure Coast Operations
Phone: (772) 429-4885
Email Kris Kehres - Paul Lampley, Director of Operations, District 4
Phone: (954) 777-4439
Email Paul Lampley
Metropolitan Planning Organization
- Brian Freeman, MPO Staff Director
Phone: (772) 226-1990
Email Brian Freeman - Joseph E. Flescher, Indian River County Commissioner and MPO Chairman
Phone: (772) 226-1919
Email Joseph E. Flescher