ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — City leaders in Winter Garden are voicing concerns over a move to widen streets and add off ramps from Florida’s turnpike in the Tildenville area.
Some said it could force people who have been in this area for generations out of their homes.
Tildenville is a predominantly African American community that is wedged in between Winter Garden and Oakland. It dates back to the 1870s.
Residents say the area is quiet and tranquil, but that may soon change.
The Florida Department of Transportation has proposed plans which include widening the turnpike between State Road 408 and 50 at Clermont, and adding off ramps to the turnpike along Avalon Road.
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“In this case, the City of Winter Garden, by unanimous vote, hereby resolves that the building of an interchange at Avalon and 50 with access to the Turnpike would be detrimental to the community,” said Winter Garden Commissioner Ron Mueller. “As such, building it would create serious safety concerns, become a detriment to the regional community, have a negative financial impact, do harm to our park system and our generous partners, and irreparable harm the Tildenville community.”
WATCH: Winter Garden residents speak up about proposal to widen streets, add off-ramps from turnpike
Mueller said the entire governing body of Winter Garden opposes the construction of the interchange and they have sent their concerns to the Florida Department of Transportation, Orange County and other state representatives.
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