Lewis, Longman & Walker wins court decision, critical road construction continues

~~Pasco County project will ease traffic and create hurricane evacuation routes~~

 

Tallahassee, FL — Representing Pasco County, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P. A. successfully contested a lawsuit that threatened the extension of Ridge Road, a critical project that will ease traffic and create a much-need hurricane evacuation route in the region.

 

In 2020, the Sierra Club sued the United States Army Corps of Engineers, (Army Corps), claiming the construction could impact the Seranova Tract of the Starkey Wilderness Preserve.

 

Earlier this year, United States Magistrate Judge Julie S. Sneed ruled in favor of the county and the Army Corps. Her report was adopted by the District Judge, Charlene Edwards Honeywell.

 

The 8.65-mile project extends Ridge Road from the intersection with Decubellis Road/Moon Late Road to the intersection of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, (U.S. 41) and Connerton Boulevard.

 

In designing the road, Pasco County took special care to minimize environmental impact by building 14 bridges over wetlands, elevating the road to allow for natural drainage. Pasco County also constructed multiple wildlife crossings to allow for passage by wildlife under the roadway.

 

“I appreciate Judge Sneed and Judge Honeywell’s decision and close study of this case,” said Frederick L. Aschauer, Jr., shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker. “Pasco County is committed to protecting the environment and ensuring residents have an additional evacuation route in case of a hurricane evacuation. This decision is good news for all county residents and for those who travel through this area.”

 

“We are grateful for Lewis, Longman and Walker’s diligent and thorough representation,” said Jeffrey Steinsnyder, County Attorney, Pasco County. “The County has always viewed the Ridge Road extension as a vital public safety/transportation project. The County has been committed to ensure this critically needed project has minimal environmental impact. We will continue to ensure that we invest wisely and meet the needs of our residents.”

 

The Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A. legal team included Mr. Aschauer, LLW shareholders Kathryn B. Rossmell, and Robert Angus Williams and LLW attorney Nicole J. Poot.