Lake County leaders have unanimously approved a $23.5 million purchase of an 11-mile stretch of railroad tracks to expand the Wekiva Regional Trail. The purchase will eventually bring the trail to Mount Dora, Tavares, and Leesburg.
Expansion Plans
Multiple speakers, including city leaders, business groups, cyclists, and conservation advocates, argued that the deal is a once-in-a-generation chance to secure the corridor, enhance competitiveness for federal BUILD grants, and drive safety and economic development gains.
Opponents raised concerns about ‘concrete sprawl,’ enforcement, and ongoing maintenance costs. The board also approved issuing the full $50 million bond but agreed to delay the closing until after the November property-tax Amendment 3 vote, citing potential tax base shifts and budget uncertainty.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
