FDOT Study Considers Extending Ayers Road, Raising Local Concerns

The Florida Department of Transportation opened a study December 10 to evaluate extending Ayers Road from U.S. 41 to Interstate 75, a project intended to strengthen connections between the Nature Coast and the interstate corridor. The study examines a 38 square mile area in Pasco and Hernando counties to determine route options and the potential impacts of an extension.

One proposed alignment discussed at the workshop would bring new traffic into the vicinity of Dan Brown Hill Road in Hernando County, running close to existing neighborhoods. That possibility prompted residents to raise concerns about increased traffic, noise and changes to the rural character of their community. John Ferguson, a resident of the area, told officials at the meeting, "I think it would be sad to see it happen in this neighborhood." He added, "It’s a beautiful, country neighborhood. I’m hoping it stays that way."

FDOT is soliciting feedback from the public as part of the study, which remains in its early stages. Any decision on routing will consider environmental factors, traffic modeling, property impacts and public input. Construction, if approved, would still be years away, and numerous design and permitting steps would follow the study phase.

For Hernando County residents the proposal carries both potential benefits and drawbacks. Improved access to Interstate 75 could reduce travel times to regional job centers and support economic links for businesses on the Nature Coast, while also directing through traffic away from smaller local roads. At the same time residents voiced concern that a new arterial could erode the rural landscape, increase commuter volumes on neighborhood streets and affect property values and lifestyle.

The study will shape conversations about growth and infrastructure in a part of Florida experiencing steady development pressure. FDOT representatives said they will continue to gather input from community members as they refine route alternatives and evaluate impacts. Local residents are advised to track opportunities to comment and attend future meetings as the process unfolds.