Suncoast News: Ridge Road extension still divisive after 12 years

Even after 12 years, the proposed Ridge Road extension project still drives passions among many supporters and detractors.

Now people have an extra month, until Jan. 27, to file letters with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers before the agency decides about an environmental permit.

The concept for the road to connect to the Suncoast Parkway and later U.S. 41 first surfaced in November 1998. The Army Corps seeks reactions on the latest revisions that reduced the impact on wetlands to 59 acres.

Opponents view the proposed road as an intrusion into a delicate area for wildlife through the Serenova preserve and a vehicle for more overdevelopment in Pasco.

Audubon of Florida is marshaling its members now.

The backers of the project see the eight-mile extension as a boom for the economy, relief from traffic congestion and an evacuation route in the event of a hurricane or other disaster.

For the full article, visit the Suncoast News.