By Jim Tully
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District One has announced plans to reconstruct a segment of State Road (SR) 17, spanning from 5th Avenue to Crooked Lake Drive in Babson Park, Polk County. A key feature of the project is addressing erosion on private properties adjacent to the roadway through the installation of a closed-drain system. This initiative includes a donated drainage easement and the addition of a 30-inch pipe to channel roadway runoff to Crooked Lake. These measures aim to reduce impervious surfaces by 0.35 acres, alleviate erosion, and enhance water quality by reducing nitrogen and phosphorus runoff.
FDOT has ensured compliance with environmental regulations, including securing necessary permits and conducting consultations with the Southwest Florida Water Management District and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. A sovereign submerged land easement is being arranged for work in Crooked Lake.
The project was permitted by the Southwest Florida Water Management District. A copy of the permitted plans are available at this link.