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Changes coming to troublesome Pasco County intersection

Old Pasco Road sign
Posted at 3:21 AM, Jul 09, 2019
and last updated 2019-07-09 17:57:03-04

PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — An intersection on Old Pasco Road will soon get a makeover. Some concerned residents say they are relieved to hear change is on the way.

Traffic backups and accidents prompted Pasco County to take a closer look at the intersection of Old Pasco Road and Quail Hollow Boulevard. Data shows 20 crashes in the area since 2016, including one that was deadly.

“We felt there was a big need to get out there and do something to improve the safety,” said Margaret Smith, Pasco County Assistant Director of Engineering Services.

The county plans to add one right and two left turn lanes on northbound Old Pasco Road. Another turn lane will be added southbound. Drivers can also expect to see a dedicated left turn lane on Quail Hollow Boulevard in addition to improvements on Oakley Boulevard.

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“It will make a big difference especially during the peak hours as people go to work in the morning and come home in the evening,” said Smith.

Ashley Kelly is one of those people. She lives nearby and uses the intersection every day. She is excited to hear about the improvements.

“That’s so awesome!” she said. “Just with what I see and experience, I feel like that’s gonna be helpful."

The project cost more than three million dollars. Construction is expected to begin in the fall and should take a year.