During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding item 16b6, which proposes the installation of a new bicycle path connecting Seagate Drive and Creighton Road in Pelican Bay. The president of the Pelican Bay Foundation expressed surprise at the item being placed on the consent agenda, arguing that it violates a Planned Unit Development (PUD) ordinance that mandates a public hearing for such matters.

The foundation, representing 15,000 residents, formally requested the removal of the item from the consent agenda, emphasizing the need for community input. The proposed pathway is intended to enhance bicycle access but has drawn criticism for potentially creating safety hazards. Opponents argue that directing cyclists onto Creighton Road, which lacks proper bike lanes and safety features, could endanger both cyclists and motorists. Instead, they advocate for the use of Myrajenko Daniels Boulevard, which is equipped with necessary safety infrastructure.

The foundation highlighted that 14 organizations, including local property owners and neighborhood associations, oppose the new pathway. They raised concerns about property rights, property valuations, and the environmental impact on protected species in the area. Furthermore, they pointed out that no independent traffic, environmental, or financial studies have been conducted to assess the implications of the proposed connection.

The Pelican Bay Foundation underscored its commitment to environmental stewardship and the preservation of the natural resource protection area, urging the commissioners to reconsider the proposal without proper public consultation. The meeting concluded with a call for transparency and community engagement before any decisions are made regarding the future of the pathway.