Bonded transportation program: county reports CSX agreement, permitting delays and active construction segments

County transportation staff provided a monthly status report on the bonded-transportation program at the May 14 meeting, highlighting work across multiple corridors and permitting risks.

Ed Dendor and Carlos Campos (WGI) updated commissioners on County Road 218 (contract executed; insurance and easement items remain before issuing a notice to proceed), County Road 209 clearing and sidewalk work (about 60% complete on portions), and CSX coordination: the county received a signed CSX agreement and scheduled a preconstruction meeting to coordinate crossing work.

Staff warned of delays tied to federal and state permitting. A federal injunction affecting FDEP 404 permitting has delayed final sign-and-seal plans for County Road 220, prompting a parallel Army Corps permitting effort and a ‘slimmed-down’ version of some project elements to allow portions of work to proceed. For Cathedral Oak Parkway (project 6B), pile driving and bridge-beam placement are underway with stormwater and subbase work progressing.

Project teams continue right-of-way negotiations and, in some cases, eminent-domain preparations. Staff told the board they would pursue phased construction to keep program momentum while the permit status evolves.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions about project sourcing and costs; staff said contractor procurement and local suppliers affect pricing and that federal/state permit outcomes remain the single largest schedule risk.