Bonita Springs and Estero residents raise concerns over I-75 expansion impacts

Local officials in Bonita Springs and Estero are raising concerns about traffic rerouting and noise impacts as I-75 undergoes expansion. City leaders in Bonita Springs are asking what happens to local traffic when I-75 experiences congestion due to crashes or construction backups. A crash or construction delay could send drivers looking for alternate routes, and the city is concerned that some of that traffic could end up on Old 41, through downtown Bonita Springs, and around the Terry Street roundabout. Navigation apps could further complicate the situation by automatically rerouting drivers through these areas. Bonita Springs wants to work with the Florida Department of Transportation, Lee County, and Estero to review existing plans for managing traffic during such situations. Leaders also want to identify any gaps in planning before construction creates new traffic challenges. Meanwhile, Estero is asking FDOT to address noise concerns related to the I-75 expansion. Leaders want to add more continuous noise walls and landscaping along the expanded interstate. The village said construction could remove some of the trees and vegetation that currently help buffer neighborhoods from the highway. Bonita Springs leaders and Estero leaders will meet Wednesday to discuss these issues further. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.