OKEECHOBEE — At their Dec. 4 meeting, Okeechobee County Commissioners will discuss their concerns about proposed changes to State Road 70.

On Nov. 18, 2025, commissioners received a presentation from Phil Menke, Project Manager from FDOT regarding a project for Sd 70 from US 98 W of 8th Ave; and a project from SR 70 from west of US 98 to East of NW 5th Avenue.

At that meeting, commissioners discussed their opposition to plans to narrow the lanes of travel and put in medians that would block left hand turns.

 At their Dec. 4 meeting, commissioners will consider sending a letter to FDOT Secretary Jamie Driggers.

Proposed text of the letter:

“Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners received an overview of the above-referenced projects from Mr. Phil Menke, FDOT Project Manager during our November 18, 2025 meeting. Okeechobee County appreciates FDOT’s commitment to investing in transportation infrastructure and safety improvements. However, after reviewing the proposed plan to widen the existing median to 16-ft, reduce travel lanes to 11-ft, cut off left- and right-hand turn lanes, and construct additional pedestrian crosswalks along S.R. 70, the Board respectfully opposes the projects in their current form.

“While both projects may appear to improve safety and traffic flow, the proposed design presents several highly significant concerns. Narrowing the lanes will hinder emergency vehicle access, heighten accident risks for larger commercial or agricultural vehicles that heavily rely on this corridor, and increase congestion during peak hours. Additionally, installing a continuous median would restrict left-turn and right-turn access for our local businesses and residents, potentially resulting in economic impacts, longer travel times, and further compromising emergency response times to these areas.

“The introduction of multiple crosswalks may be beneficial for pedestrians; however, may not align with the current land use patterns or pedestrian volumes along this route. These additions will create unnecessary vehicle delays and reroute daily traffic, increasing safety conflicts at mid-block locations.

“Okeechobee County respectfully requests that FDOT immediately stop these road improvement projects and schedule a time to meet with county staff to develop improvements that are consistent and beneficial for our residents, businesses, and those utilizing this corridor from the east and west coast, while maintaining the safety and character of our community.”