QUNICY, Fla. (WTXL)-- The Florida Department of Transportation is proposing a multi-use trail along State Road 12 to amp up mobility between Quincy and Havana.
Quincy and Havana are about 12 miles apart from center to center, but currently the only safe and sure way to get around town is by car. The area lacks a bike lane for bicyclists or pedestrians making the commute.
FL DOT is looking to change that limitation with the "Florida Arts Trail." The multi-use lane will run approximately 10 miles long starting on State Road in Quincy and ending on U.S. 27 in Havana.
The proposal came in 2012 after the Capital Regional Transportation Planning Agency identified a need for an alternate means of transportation to keep non-drivers safe.
Spokesperson for the department, Ian Satter, explained. "We look at building everything from roads and bridges, but we also have a key concern for the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists so this will provide another corridor or means they can use that will be safe and efficient," said Satter.
A feasibility study was completed in August 2012 to determine whether or not a trail could be constructed in the general vicinity. The plan is now in the EPA study phase, which analyzes various factors. Experts look at the potential environmental impacts, safety issues and the impact on property owners.
The department expects the study phase to be completed by the end of 2015. But because it is still in the early stages, there is no funding available yet for design, right of way, or the purchase of property. And the purchase of land in one concern some resident have about the new trail, arguing that they will have to give up their personal property to accommodate the added traffic.
