Highway Meggison

[Normal]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

[metoo21]

A couple hundred homes? There will be 13,000 between Homestead and the Turnpike with Meggison being the main road north & south.

[VApeople]

Take a drive down Pinellas. It is a 2-lane road that passes through several villages. That is how Meggison will be for people in Citrus Grove after Newell et al is finished.

[LAFwUs]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?
Yep!
Partly to blame is Sawgrass with its one and only entrance off Meggison and people, (both cart & car) all in contest to get the best live entertainment seats/cart parking in the grass just outside the open air area /whatever.
We noted the BIG uptick in traffic and speed of said traffic, when Sawgrass came on board, just before we moved north.
You are also correct, it will all get much worse, when they complete the bridge spanning the turnpike to lay in more villages, as it will really be the only way in/out for everyone living there, needing to go anywhere...

[Glorantha]

Saw this as a problem months ago. There are no roundabouts or gates to slow the traffic flow. Golf cart lanes are along the road instead of having a dedicated path.

I can easily see the cars speeding down this road once connections are open.

[npwalters]

If you want to know what it will be like in a few years just take Morse between 466 and 27/441.

[Rainger99]

I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

Meggison is four lanes between brownwood and sawgrass and it has a separate golf cart lane about 10 yards off the road. South of sawgrass it is only two lanes with two golf cart lanes in the road. I would love to get an explanation for this design from the engineers. The developers seem to have built a safe road north of sawgrass and a dangerous road south of sawgrass.

[Kenswing]

Meggison is four lanes between brownwood and sawgrass and it has a separate golf cart lane about 10 yards off the road. South of sawgrass it is only two lanes with two golf cart lanes in the road. I would love to get an explanation for this design from the engineers. The developers seem to have built a safe road north of sawgrass and a dangerous road south of sawgrass.

Does the developer design the roads or does the county? Notice the lane change is right around the county line.

[Normal]

Does the developer design the roads or does the county? Notice the lane change is right around the county line.
All of Citrus Grove is in Sumter County. All of Meggison Road in Citrus Grove is 2 lane. It is probably just dollar sign blindness by the developer. More lots take priority over safer roads. The golf cart crossing to Southern Oaks is very tough. You really have to have your peepers open and be patient to cross.

[RobertScott]

The contractors go very fast down Meggison, in and out of Lake County. I did see WPD in the bushes by the power lines the other day, bravo.

[Papa_lecki]

All of Citrus Grove is in Sumter County. All of Meggison Road in Citrus Grove is 2 lane. It is probably just dollar sign blindness by the developer. More lots take priority over safer roads. The golf cart crossing to Southern Oaks is very tough. You really have to have your peepers open and be patient to cross.

Yes, the developer just decided to cut costs on roads, not like its a county road that needs to meet state and federal guidelines and approval.
So let’s keep blaming it on the developer.

If you didnt see the massive amount of future development happening south of citrus grove, but still complain about the road - just like those complaining about the turnpike.

[Normal]

Yes, the developer just decided to cut costs on roads, not like its a county road that needs to meet state and federal guidelines and approval.
So let’s keep blaming it on the developer.

If you didnt see the massive amount of future development happening south of citrus grove, but still complain about the road - just like those complaining about the turnpike.
I’m sure the developer gets more money for lots and homes than it does by spending money on infrastructure. So sure. Why not sell additional homesites instead of making a better road? It’s a great short term dollar sign business decision.

[Altavia]

Meggison is four lanes between brownwood and sawgrass and it has a separate golf cart lane about 10 yards off the road. South of sawgrass it is only two lanes with two golf cart lanes in the road. I would love to get an explanation for this design from the engineers. The developers seem to have built a safe road north of sawgrass and a dangerous road south of sawgrass.

It appears the intent is for 4 lane through traffic to cross the Bexely Bridge connecting to 4 lane McNeil drive south to Central Parkway (470).

Continuing The Dream: Volume 3 (https://www.nxtbook.com/thevillages/TheVillages/ContinuingTheDream_Vol3/index.php#/p/8)

[John Mayes]

It appears the intent is for 4 lane through traffic to cross the Bexely Bridge connecting to 4 lane McNeil drive south to Central Parkway (470).

Continuing The Dream: Volume 3 (https://www.nxtbook.com/thevillages/TheVillages/ContinuingTheDream_Vol3/index.php#/p/8)

This!!!! My uneducated guess is that traffic headed to the turnpike will be encouraged to use the new Bexley bridge instead of passing through the Citrus Grove gate and continuing on Meggison.

[VApeople]

South of sawgrass it is only two lanes with two golf cart lanes in the road. I would love to get an explanation for this design from the engineers.

They have always done that on roads they thing will not carry too much traffic, like Moyer, Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Meggison below Sawgrass.

[coffeebean]

If you want to know what it will be like in a few years just take Morse between 466 and 27/441.
Was the cart path along Meggison Road (like the cart path alongside Morse north of 466) built this way to accommodate a dedicated walking path? I noticed that several months ago when hubby and I took a drive down south. I said to hubby at the time that I much prefered to have a dedicated multi modal path than share a busy roadway like Meggison Rd and Morse north of 466. I'm not a walker or biker so the dedicated walking paths are not important to me as they would be to those who are avid walkers and bikers.

[coffeebean]

Meggison is four lanes between brownwood and sawgrass and it has a separate golf cart lane about 10 yards off the road. South of sawgrass it is only two lanes with two golf cart lanes in the road. I would love to get an explanation for this design from the engineers. The developers seem to have built a safe road north of sawgrass and a dangerous road south of sawgrass.

Good to know the entire stretch of Meggison does not have a cart path alongside.

[VApeople]

Was the cart path along Meggison Road (like the cart path alongside Morse north of 466) built this way to accommodate a dedicated walking path?

No.

There is no walking path when a road has a cart path alongside. Look at Meggison above Sawgrass or Morse or Buena Vista.

When there is no cart path alongside (like Meggison below Sawgrass or Fenney Way), they have a dedicated walking/biking path, which we walkers and bikers truly appreciate.

[b0bd0herty]

Saw this as a problem months ago. There are no roundabouts or gates to slow the traffic flow. Golf cart lanes are along the road instead of having a dedicated path.

I can easily see the cars speeding down this road once connections are open.

They are already (not just contractors) hitting 50 mph and more.

[Ele201]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?
New homes are going up everywhere there is space for them, it seems. The developers will continue to build, that’s their plan. In a few years, it will become more like a bustling metropolis, rather than the peaceful retirement community people sought when they moved here.

[Rainger99]

In a few years, it will become more like a bustling metropolis, rather than the peaceful retirement community people sought when they moved here.

The population is about 135,000 now. What is your definition of a bustling metropolis?

[Rainger99]

Good to know the entire stretch of Meggison does not have a cart path alongside.

The real question is why Meggison north (from 44 to sawgrass) is four lanes with a golf cart path about 10 yards off the road and Meggison south (from sawgrass to 470) is two lanes with golf cart lanes in the roadway. Do the residents of Richmond, St Johns, Hawkins, Cason Hammock, and St Catherines deserve safer roads than residents living south of there? Were there a lot of accidents in Meggison north and the engineers thought the south design is safer?

When there is an accident, maybe Dan or Morgan & Morgan will get the answer.

[Rwirish]

Well to The Villages.

[jonathanb]

We’ve been living in The Villages for 12 years now and are on our sixth home. Currently in Citrus Grove. Traffic always gets worse after a year or two when you move into a new house. Just drive north of 44. It’s a traffic zoo at times.

[merrymini]

New areas are lighter on traffic because all the people are not there yet. I thought it was funny when I asked someone why they liked the southern area better and they said it was “quiet.” Well, it wasn’t fully developed yet! I hate to drive up to the most northern areas because the traffic congestion is terrible but that is where all the new businesses seem to go. It will get busier and busier as all the people move in. Also the road and paths may have to be different in the south due to building constraints due to wet lands and such.

[jimdecastro]

Yes, the developer just decided to cut costs on roads, not like its a county road that needs to meet state and federal guidelines and approval.
So let’s keep blaming it on the developer.

If you didnt see the massive amount of future development happening south of citrus grove, but still complain about the road - just like those complaining about the turnpike.

When we moved here there WAS no development yet - and we couldn't see how the area would be built. I thought they would follow the model of the other 77 Villages - gates, roundabouts, etc.

[jimdecastro]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

I am the VHA Neighborhood Rep in Citrus Grove (and will be in Newell in June). We have been trying to address this since the Spring. The powers that be (developer, WPD, Sumter County) state this was engineered appropriately. I am going to the Town Hall to bring this to light - again. I was told this is how it is on Morse north of 466 - NOT TRUE; there are three traffic lights up there. In Newell, Lake County has no east way to respond to emergencies as Meggison Road does not go through to CR 470 yet. This CANNOT be safe for the Lake County residents of Newell who start to move in THIS MONTH.

[jimdecastro]

This!!!! My uneducated guess is that traffic headed to the turnpike will be encouraged to use the new Bexley bridge instead of passing through the Citrus Grove gate and continuing on Meggison.


Not going to happen. Meggison is MUCH closer to the turnpike than MacNeil. And there is no light and/or left turn to contend with.

[jimdecastro]

The population is about 135,000 now. What is your definition of a bustling metropolis?


The current population according to The Daily Sun is 144,700.

[Southwest737]

Thus one of the reasons we bought up north. Much less traffic. Throw in no bond, better shopping, more golf courses, and trees.

[Normal]

It appears the intent is for 4 lane through traffic to cross the Bexely Bridge connecting to 4 lane McNeil drive south to Central Parkway (470).

Continuing The Dream: Volume 3 (https://www.nxtbook.com/thevillages/TheVillages/ContinuingTheDream_Vol3/index.php#/p/8)

Um ya, everyone likes to drive farther to get somewhere? I understand and respect what you have said, but I know for a fact that airport shuttles from Orlando are already eyeing the opening of the Meggison 470 junction. The shuttle driver we used on Groome mentioned it when we returned last week from visiting family.

[Annie66]

New areas are lighter on traffic because all the people are not there yet. I thought it was funny when I asked someone why they liked the southern area better and they said it was “quiet.” Well, it wasn’t fully developed yet! I hate to drive up to the most northern areas because the traffic congestion is terrible but that is where all the new businesses seem to go. It will get busier and busier as all the people move in. Also the road and paths may have to be different in the south due to building constraints due to wet lands and such.

You must have a low threshold of pain. The traffic in most cities is 4 or 5 times worse.

[Normal]

So, and your point is??

It is becoming unsafe to cross our cart at the Citrus Grove gate and the 2 lane is driven on like it is a four lane. I hate even going to the post office. The golf cart path shared with the road is dangerous.

[Nucky]

I understand that this is an important issue to you Mr. or Mrs. OP.

Me personally, I couldn’t give a Fig Newton about noise from the Pike or any other road anywhere in The Villages. I’m about a mile or so from 441 in The Historic Section and was going to start a petition about the road noise and the occasional noise from Spanish Springs Town Square. Since nobody over here can hear I got no support on that issue. I normally can’t hear NOTHING anyway, just ask my wifey.

[Annie66]

I'm surprised that no one has mentioned that Meggison Road is such a winding, curvy highway where the lanes seem to be a bit narrower than other major roads. When I drive down it, I imagine this is like a Formula 1 track. I'm unaware if this feature has led to a higher incidence of auto accidents. I just do not understand why it was designed this way and not have a straighter, albeit a more boring, construction.

[NoMo50]

Yes, the developer just decided to cut costs on roads, not like its a county road that needs to meet state and federal guidelines and approval.
So let’s keep blaming it on the developer.

It is doubtful that cost cutting was the major factor behind the design of Meggison. All of the infrastructure in new construction areas, including roads, is recaptured by the bonds issued in those areas. So, in essence, these construction costs will be borne by the new homeowners. And don't think for a minute that there aren't multiple levels of approvals attached to new roadway development.

[Rainger99]

I am the VHA Neighborhood Rep in Citrus Grove (and will be in Newell in June). We have been trying to address this since the Spring. The powers that be (developer, WPD, Sumter County) state this was engineered appropriately.

What explanation do they give for changing the design of Meggison south of sawgrass? Is it safer than Meggison north? Or Buena Vista and Morse south of 466?

[westernrider75]

Much less traffic!!!! Are you kidding? That’s one of the reasons we didn’t buy up north, because of the gridlock.

[divolady@bellsouth.net]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

Sell sell sell all about money with no concern about traffic and people

[TomPerry]

Same old, same old! It is like it is all over the country! When people move to a desirable place, they want it to stay the same as when they moved there! They don’t want anyone else coming in and screwing up their great place! Not in my new back yard!

[Beyond The Wall]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

Have you ever driven on Hillsbourgh , Pinalles, or any east west road connecting Morse and BV.
All have continuous heavy traffic. The fact that Meggison goes directly into Brownwood adds to its use.

[jimkerr]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

It’s no different than other areas of the villages. The road can handle the traffic just fine.

[Normal]

Have you ever driven on Hillsbourgh , Pinalles, or any east west road connecting Morse and BV.
All have continuous heavy traffic. The fact that Meggison goes directly into Brownwood adds to its use.

Yes, I’ve driven on Pinalles two or three times. It isn’t ideal to live on either. That’s a great point.

[Chamo]

Is there anything that you people don’t complain about. If you don’t see the future here the way they are building what do you expect. My suggestion move somewhere else this place is only going to get more and more people.
You either love it or leave it case close.

[srswans]

What explanation do they give for changing the design of Meggison south of sawgrass? Is it safer than Meggison north? Or Buena Vista and Morse south of 466?

Meggison drops to two lanes behind gates and is probably considered a neighborhood street rather than a thoroughfare at that point.

Traffic will be less treacherous once Newell et al construction is done - probably in a year or so.

[srswans]

I'm surprised that no one has mentioned that Meggison Road is such a winding, curvy highway where the lanes seem to be a bit narrower than other major roads. When I drive down it, I imagine this is like a Formula 1 track. I'm unaware if this feature has led to a higher incidence of auto accidents. I just do not understand why it was designed this way and not have more or a straight, albeit a more boring, construction.

Narrowing streets has the natural effect of causing drivers to slow down - works better than speed limit signs. Likewise for curvy streets. Standard traffic design technique.

[wbilbrey99@yahoo.com]

It’s like the guy who moved next to the airport and thought ah this should be quiet.

[Altavia]

Um ya, everyone likes to drive farther to get somewhere? I understand and respect what you have said, but I know for a fact that airport shuttles from Orlando are already eyeing the opening of the Meggison 470 junction. The shuttle driver we used on Groome mentioned it when we returned last week from visiting family.

People drive further all the time to get places faster.

If you look closely at the map, the 4 lane McNeal will be shorter from Sawgrass to the Turnpike than 2 lane Megason to 470 and backtracking west
to the Turnpike entrance.

Similar to how 301/Warm Springs is faster from Everglades than Marshbend even though it a couple of miles longer.

If you live south of Sawgrass, it's a different story depending on how far south.

But it's clear Megason south of Sawgrass is designed to discourage through traffic but send it down McNeal past the planned medical and commercial center.

[Rainger99]

Meggison drops to two lanes behind gates and is probably considered a neighborhood street rather than a thoroughfare at that point.

Traffic will be less treacherous once Newell et al construction is done - probably in a year or so.


Why isn't Meggison considered a neighborhood street north of sawgrass?

And once Meggison is open to 470, I think traffic will increase - people will be driving to Newell, Lake Denham, Dabney and the Turnpike - and hopefully to the Costco or Trader Joes that we expect will be built down near Middleton.

[bark4me]

All of Citrus Grove is in Sumter County. All of Meggison Road in Citrus Grove is 2 lane. It is probably just dollar sign blindness by the developer. More lots take priority over safer roads. The golf cart crossing to Southern Oaks is very tough. You really have to have your peepers open and be patient to cross.
The Lake County line is right where the dog park is.

[golfing eagles]

Why isn't Meggison considered a neighborhood street north of sawgrass?

And once Meggison is open to 470, I think traffic will increase - people will be driving to Newell, Lake Denham, Dabney and the Turnpike - and hopefully to the Costco or Trader Joes that we expect will be built down near Middleton.

Probably because it is the main access route to the new Bexley bridge

[kendi]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

The fact that Meggison would get much busier was obvious even before you moved into citrus grove. Should have known before you purchased.

[Altavia]

People drive further all the time to get places faster.

If you look closely at the map, the 4 lane McNeal will be shorter from Sawgrass to the Turnpike than 2 lane Megason to 470 and backtracking west
to the Turnpike entrance.

Similar to how 301/Warm Springs is faster from Everglades than Marshbend even though it a couple of miles longer.

If you live south of Sawgrass, it's a different story depending on how far south.

But it's clear Megason south of Sawgrass is designed to discourage through traffic but send it down McNeal past the planned medical and commercial center.

Maybe this will help make it more clear for some.

[VApeople]

The fact that Meggison would get much busier was obvious even before you moved into citrus grove. Should have known before you purchased.

Yeah, I agree with that statement.

We live north of route 44 and we have always enjoyed walking and biking around the new areas as they were being built.

Right away we could see problems with Citrus Grove. We have always known that it would be difficult living in a neighborhood along Pinellas and Hillsborough, and we could guess that it would the same with Citrus Grove.

[Gatorgreen]

the population is about 135,000 now. What is your definition of a bustling metropolis?

135,000

[Aces4]

the population is about 135,000 now. What is your definition of a bustling metropolis?

135,000

[kansasr]

If you're talking about the 3 new villages in Leesburg, your numbers are WAY off. Currently (according to the Lake County property appraisers web site) there are approximately 2,490 plotted lots and about 957 additional addresses in this area that haven't been plotted yet, putting the total closer to 3500!

[BigSteph]

The biggest omission I see, is that they didn't put a Tunnel across Meggison near SawGrass.

Not only does everyone on cart have to cross Meggison at Citrus Grove to continue down, but this will also be a gateway for crossing over the turnpike to get to Middleton and Eastport when they open.




They are already (not just contractors) hitting 50 mph and more.

[Aces4]

You must have a low threshold of pain. The traffic in most cities is 4 or 5 times worse.

And that is supposed to make people in an advanced age retirement community feel better? It’s probably why the oldsters vacated those cities in the first place. Most here don’t remember when TV was a more bucolic retirement destination. That ship sailed.

[meme5x]

That’s why I love living in the north end…access to stores, squares and safer roads!

[Aces4]

[QUOTE=Annie66;2173105]I'm surprised that no one has mentioned that Meggison Road is such a winding, curvy highway where the lanes seem to be a bit narrower than other major roads. When I drive down it, I imagine this is like a Formula 1 track. I'm unaware if this feature has led to a higher incidence of auto accidents. I just do not understand why it was designed this way and not have more or a straight, albeit a more boring, construction.[/QUOT


Perhaps to slow traffic down and for aesthetics. They weren’t aiming for interstate quality roads, I’m sure.

[Rainger99]

Maybe this will help make it more clear for some.

I think the issue is about Meggison being two lanes south of sawgrass - not about the fastest way to the turnpike. From 44 to sawgrass, Meggison is four lanes with dedicated paths for golf carts. This seems safer for cars, golf carts, bikes, and pedestrians.

South of sawgrass, you have people driving to Citrus Grove, Newell, Lake Denham, and Dabney on a two lane highway with golf cart lanes in the roadway. I think that everyone would agree that a four lane highway (with two lanes in each direction and a median in between) is much safer than a two lane highway (with no median). Was the design change to save money or to make the road safer?

[Laker14]

I live "between the sixes" in Poinciana and have recently made a few trips by car to the Homestead Rec Center. My impression of Meggison from Sawgrass Grove to the rec center was that it was very quiet. I am sure it will get busier as more villages are built down that route, but if you think that's busy now, come ride around Bailey Trail, and St. Charles Place. I have long felt that something was miscalculated when they designed St. Charles Pl . Trying to get out of the Sterling Hts. Rec center during the winter months is daunting, as is crossing it at the BV RAB.

[GizmoWhiskers]

Yep!
Partly to blame is Sawgrass with its one and only entrance off Meggison and people, (both cart & car) all in contest to get the best live entertainment seats/cart parking in the grass just outside the open air area /whatever.
We noted the BIG uptick in traffic and speed of said traffic, when Sawgrass came on board, just before we moved north.
You are also correct, it will all get much worse, when they complete the bridge spanning the turnpike to lay in more villages, as it will really be the only way in/out for everyone living there, needing to go anywhere...
Yep, just wait until people real8ze Meggison is great shortcut to RT 27 to Clermont.

[Marathon Man]

That’s why I love living in the north end…access to stores, squares and safer roads!

Too funny. The road with the by far most safety complaints is Morse Bld north of 466. I can't recall any other road in TV that the county was asked to investigate changes to make it safer. And how about the guy that purchased a radar gun so that he could stand next to the road a yell at speeders. So, nope.

[vintageogauge]

The current population according to The Daily Sun is 144,700.

When they put that figure out is that full time residents or does that include snowbirds? I've always wondered that and have never found the answer.

[VApeople]

I think that everyone would agree that a four lane highway (with two lanes in each direction and a median in between) is much safer than a two lane highway (with no median).

A couple months ago a young lady was killed driving south on Buena Vista when she ran into the roundabout at Bailey Trail.

A few weeks ago a young man on a motorcycle was killed at the intersection of Buena Vista and 466A.

Yesterday there was an accident at that same intersection and we saw two people being carried away on stretchers.

Even a "four lane highway (with two lanes in each direction and a median in between)" is not safe when people are careless.

[Rainger99]

Even a "four lane highway (with two lanes in each direction and a median in between)" is not safe when people are careless.

I didn't say that four lanes were perfectly safe and that no one has ever been injured or killed on four lane highways. I said that four lanes are safer than two lanes.

A study from the University of Wyoming concluded that "the conversion from two-lane roadways to four lane divided roadways results in a notable reduction in fatal and injury crashes of more than 63% on urban roadways and 45% on rural roadways."

For those interested in the entire study, see below.


https://www.uwyo.edu/ahmed/Papers/2015%20TRR%20Evaluation%20of%20the%20Safety%20Effe ctiveness%20of%20the%20Conversion%20of%20Two-Lane%20Roadways%20to%20Four-Lane%20Divided%20Roadways.pdf

[birdawg]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?
Just like the people that bought next to the turnpike and now are complaining about the noise, investigate what your buying.

[birdawg]

When we moved here there WAS no development yet - and we couldn't see how the area would be built. I thought they would follow the model of the other 77 Villages - gates, roundabouts, etc.key word thought

[kcrazorbackfan]

All of Citrus Grove is in Sumter County. All of Meggison Road in Citrus Grove is 2 lane. It is probably just dollar sign blindness by the developer. More lots take priority over safer roads. The golf cart crossing to Southern Oaks is very tough. You really have to have your peepers open and be patient to cross.

Do “you people” ever get tired of bitching about the developer? And “you people” that complain the most probably live in The Villages.

[Bogie Shooter]

Do “you people” ever get tired of bitching about the developer? And “you people” that complain the most probably live in The Villages.

:boom: 👍

[golfing eagles]

Too funny. The road with the by far most safety complaints is Morse Bld north of 466. I can't recall any other road in TV that the county was asked to investigate changes to make it safer. And how about the guy that purchased a radar gun so that he could stand next to the road a yell at speeders. So, nope.

Did some jerk actually do that? If so, I'd love to meet him. Unfortunately for him it would take some time for them to disimpact his radar gun :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Altavia]

I think the issue is about Meggison being two lanes south of sawgrass - not about the fastest way to the turnpike. From 44 to sawgrass, Meggison is four lanes with dedicated paths for golf carts. This seems safer for cars, golf carts, bikes, and pedestrians.

South of sawgrass, you have people driving to Citrus Grove, Newell, Lake Denham, and Dabney on a two lane highway with golf cart lanes in the roadway. I think that everyone would agree that a four lane highway (with two lanes in each direction and a median in between) is much safer than a two lane highway (with no median). Was the design change to save money or to make the road safer?

The OP concerned about Megason being a shortcut to 470. People will tire quickly of a local 2 lane 25-30mph road when a a 4 lane, divided 35 mph connector road is available. Seems likely traffic on South Megason might even decrease one McNeil opens.

The homeowners pay for infrastructure within the Villages. How many would be ok with an extra $5-10k-?? added to their bond for an additional 4 lane divided road for 4-5 Villages?

There was no design change, the roadwayswere designed as planned in regional road agreements approved over 5 years ago.

[Stu from NYC]

Do “you people” ever get tired of bitching about the developer? And “you people” that complain the most probably live in The Villages.

The developer did a large number of awesome things building this place but also some head scratching ones as well. Do we not have the right to coment on that?

For example why was Morse N of 466 built as 2 lane road (one lane in each direction) while Buena Vista 4 lanes thruout.

[Nana2Teddy]

If you want to know what it will be like in a few years just take Morse between 466 and 27/441.
Yep! We just drove that route this afternoon to go from DeLuna to Home Depot and it’s crazy!

[coffeebean]

Much less traffic!!!! Are you kidding? That’s one of the reasons we didn’t buy up north, because of the gridlock.
What gridlock are you referring to? The roadways south of 441, within The Villages, have moderate to very little traffic most of the time. During January, February and March traffic does increase but is still very tolerable and easy to navigate. I guess it all depends on where you are from and the type of traffic you are used to prior to moving here. My NY, NJ and South Florida back round probably has a lot to do with how I view the lack of traffic within The Villages.

Traffic on 441 is quite busy and actually a royal PIA to navigate with all the construction that is ongoing but that should improve when the roadway construction is completed..

[Rainger99]

….but that should improve when the roadway construction is completed..

Any idea when that will be???

[Stu from NYC]

Any idea when that will be???

Four score and seven years from now?

[SeaCros]

That is because the population grew during this post LOL

[SeaCros]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?
It’s called progress. Once all the building and development has been completed this problem will move to the next area(s) that are stood up. The areas up north are done and have been for a while so it doesn’t seem as bad. I’m sure Morse and other roads were the same when all the building was going on. I think that’s why people move around here.
Just my $0.02 (for what it’s worth)

[Worldseries27]

Kind of obvious that the turnpike acting as a natural barrier has caused the developer to squeeze as many homes as possible into the available area, cutting corners wherever possible, eg
the baby town square of the aptly named sawgrass grove.

[HoosierPa]

Meggison is four lanes between brownwood and sawgrass and it has a separate golf cart lane about 10 yards off the road. South of sawgrass it is only two lanes with two golf cart lanes in the road. I would love to get an explanation for this design from the engineers. The developers seem to have built a safe road north of sawgrass and a dangerous road south of sawgrass.

You are in the wrong place to get an explanation.

[Laker14]

The developer did a large number of awesome things building this place but also some head scratching ones as well. Do we not have the right to coment on that?

For example why was Morse N of 466 built as 2 lane road (one lane in each direction) while Buena Vista 4 lanes thruout.

I agree with that there is no reason not to criticize or comment on things the developer could have done better.

As to your example, I have always assumed (which is obviously dangerous) that that part of TV serviced by Morse Rd between Spanish Springs and 466 was the first area developed after jumping across 441 from the Prehistoric Section. Along with that assumption I make another couple of assumptions, one being that the developer had no idea how popular this place would become, and when they continued to develop into the area serviced by Buena Vista north of 466 they learned some lessons about traffic flow from previously developed area.

They continued to apply lessons learned as they developed south of 466; more space between the RABs and the gates where carts cross, bigger tunnels,

and again when they crossed 466A: safer sight-lines as you enter and exit tunnels, longer, wider approaches entering and exiting tunnels, even more space between RABs and cart crossing areas....etc

Did they do it all perfectly? No, but they seemed to be learning and applying what they learned.

I don't live in the new areas, seldom go there, and almost never by cart. But those who do may wonder why it seems that they have gone away from applying what they learned from previous areas developed, and have applied more of a "how do we maximize profits" than "how do we do things better here than the last areas?"

Case in point: the differences in the border ribbing on the new MMPs vs. the older ones. The developer knew what was better, but opted to save a buck or two and go the cheaper route, destined to break down sooner than if they'd done it right.

[Laker]

I'm surprised that no one has mentioned that Meggison Road is such a winding, curvy highway where the lanes seem to be a bit narrower than other major roads. When I drive down it, I imagine this is like a Formula 1 track. I'm unaware if this feature has led to a higher incidence of auto accidents. I just do not understand why it was designed this way and not have a straighter, albeit a more boring, construction.
I'm guessing it was designed with all the curves to keep the speed down. I drove it a few days ago north to Brownwood instead of taking 44. It is not faster than Morse to 44 because of all the curves. I'll likely go back to taking Morse to 44 to Brownwood.

[GizmoWhiskers]

Meggison is four lanes between brownwood and sawgrass and it has a separate golf cart lane about 10 yards off the road. South of sawgrass it is only two lanes with two golf cart lanes in the road. I would love to get an explanation for this design from the engineers. The developers seem to have built a safe road north of sawgrass and a dangerous road south of sawgrass.
Not to be negative but to be keep feet on the ground in the Bubble it is $$ over safety. The future budgets will have more diamond lanes than beautiful paths. Just look at the dust bowl near 470 and down 301. Look at the new part of DeLuna. It's a sure thing! Online housing sales where people buy sight unseen to rent the houses out as air b n b's. 8200 plus households for under 55. Safety and beauty is not the goal.

[fcgiii]

Yes, I’ve driven on Pinalles two or three times. It isn’t ideal to live on either. That’s a great point.

i don't get it. i use Hillsborough every day and often zig over to Pinellas to get to Morse north. Yes there are cars but in the year and a half i have lived here i have never seen heavy traffic on either.

[GizmoWhiskers]

New homes are going up everywhere there is space for them, it seems. The developers will continue to build, that’s their plan. In a few years, it will become more like a bustling metropolis, rather than the peaceful retirement community people sought when they moved here.
Exactly.

[Bealman]

Thanks for the thumbnail, Altavita. Good pictorial of what's to come.

[billethkid]

When I bought and built here 19 years ago I bought into a peaceful retirement community with lottsa activities.

Today I still consider it to be the same as I bought into.

One difference is obvious.... more people complaining about what THEY BOUGHT INTO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

__________________________________________

:censored:

[geobar]

Why should Meggison Rd. be any different than say Morse and Prima Blvds?

The Morse Clan is now overbuilding the new villages South of CR-44 with the lack of building enough Shopping, Rec. Centers and Restaurants to entice new purchasers. These people need to drive North.

The 2 original owners of "The Villages" built these attractions to entice sales of homes yet to be built.

Shamefully now that the "Morse Clan" presently only wants to sell homes without providing the required facilities for new residents. This forces these people to travel to 466 or 466A and 441 to shop overcrowding the roads.

This was one reason we moved out of "The Villages" in 2020.



We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

[M2inOR]

The actual number of complainers is increasing.

The good news? There are more happier people than ever before. They are all out enjoying retirement and life.

[vinnytalk]

And your point is?

[Lottoguy]

Those homes won't be for snowbirds either. They will have year around people living in them. Good luck with the traffic down there.

[joelfmi]

Thanks for this transparency which is a negative for people to move there.

[vinnytalk]

And your point is? It is what it is, you can't tell people not to drive there, or will the villages make larger roads , who ever ot bothers needs to stay home or walk.
Just saying

[srswans]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

Meggison has a posted speed limit of 20 at the Lake County line.

[Michael 61]

Traffic will continue to increase everywhere as The Villages grows - just the way it is - I personally am looking forward to all the future development, and the reason I chose to relocate here vs a small sleepy hamlet someplace without all the amenities and future amenities coming to The Villages - the hustle and bustle is appealing to me.

[Altavia]

I agree with that there is no reason not to criticize or comment on things the developer could have done better.

As to your example, I have always assumed (which is obviously dangerous) that that part of TV serviced by Morse Rd between Spanish Springs and 466 was the first area developed after jumping across 441 from the Prehistoric Section. Along with that assumption I make another couple of assumptions, one being that the developer had no idea how popular this place would become, and when they continued to develop into the area serviced by Buena Vista north of 466 they learned some lessons about traffic flow from previously developed area.

They continued to apply lessons learned as they developed south of 466; more space between the RABs and the gates where carts cross, bigger tunnels,

and again when they crossed 466A: safer sight-lines as you enter and exit tunnels, longer, wider approaches entering and exiting tunnels, even more space between RABs and cart crossing areas....etc

Did they do it all perfectly? No, but they seemed to be learning and applying what they learned.

I don't live in the new areas, seldom go there, and almost never by cart. But those who do may wonder why it seems that they have gone away from applying what they learned from previous areas developed, and have applied more of a "how do we maximize profits" than "how do we do things better here than the last areas?"

Case in point: the differences in the border ribbing on the new MMPs vs. the older ones. The developer knew what was better, but opted to save a buck or two and go the cheaper route, destined to break down sooner than if they'd done it right.

As you say, things have evolved.

The counterbalance is having more natural/common areas and paths which means less rooftops to spread the bonds. They are building what the current market favors.

Given the demand, they could easily charge more per home if they wanted greater margins.

I think there is a SimCity element to build the best retitement community where Continuing The Dream is among the objectives while balancing profits.

[srswans]

…

A study from the University of Wyoming concluded that "the conversion from two-lane roadways to four lane divided roadways results in a notable reduction in fatal and injury crashes of more than 63% on urban roadways and 45% on rural roadways."

For those interested in the entire study, see below.


https://www.uwyo.edu/ahmed/Papers/2015%20TRR%20Evaluation%20of%20the%20Safety%20Effe ctiveness%20of%20the%20Conversion%20of%20Two-Lane%20Roadways%20to%20Four-Lane%20Divided%20Roadways.pdf

That study (from 2015?) does not apply to Meggison, especially Meggison south of Sawgrass. That study examined roads (i.e., highways) that had been converted from two-lane to four, primarily to improve vehicle traffic throughput.

This part of Meggison is a 20 MPH street that is shared by pedestrians, cyclists, golf carts and vehicles. Many people need to cross this street daily just to get their mail. Changing this to four-lane is the opposite of what should be done.

Read the Strong Towns books by Charles Marohn for more detail.

In particular, Marohn shows that traffic engineers are beginning a shift towards slower streets that work for all users. Looks like the developers are doing this as well.

[VApeople]

This part of Meggison is a 20 MPH street that is shared by pedestrians, cyclists, golf carts and vehicles.

I thought Meggison near Citrus Grove was 30 mph, just like Pinellas and Hillsborough and Marsh Bend Trail in DeLuna.

We have walked and ridden our bikes all through St. Catherine's and Citrus Grove but we have never ridden along Meggison, not when there is a very nice walking/biking path next to it.

[rsmurano]

We moved into Citrus Grove a little more than a year ago. Since then, traffic has GREATLY increased along Meggison road. My fear is it will even get worse once the road connects to 470/ turnpike and the Bexley bridge opens up. It’s only two lanes wide after passing the Citrus Grove gates and crossing the road with golf carts or walking has gotten more and more treacherous. Furthermore, another hundred plus homes are being built in the Newell Franklin area which would only make things worse. I’m beginning to wonder if things were thought through for this busy thoroughfare?

We moved here 16 months ago and we knew back then Meggison was going to get really busy, how can it not with all the building that will be going on in Newall and way further down meggison. I thought I heard wingnut state there will be 30,000 more homes down meggison, that’s a huge amount of new homes

[golfing eagles]

Why should Meggison Rd. be any different than say Morse and Prima Blvds?

The Morse Clan is now overbuilding the new villages South of CR-44 with the lack of building enough Shopping, Rec. Centers and Restaurants to entice new purchasers. These people need to drive North.

The 2 original owners of "The Villages" built these attractions to entice sales of homes yet to be built.

Shamefully now that the "Morse Clan" presently only wants to sell homes without providing the required facilities for new residents. This forces these people to travel to 466 or 466A and 441 to shop overcrowding the roads.

This was one reason we moved out of "The Villages" in 2020.

Hope the door didn't hit you on the way out :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

BTW, how's the traffic in Port St. Lucie :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[VApeople]

Meggison has a posted speed limit of 20 at the Lake County line.

Maybe that is where Meggison enters a 'construction zone' and that is why they want the speed limit to be less than it is around Citrus Grove.

[kansasr]

Meggison has a posted speed limit of 20 at the Lake County line.

Just a quick correction....Meggison has a 30mph maximum speed limit through the Leesburg villages.

[metoo21]

We moved here 16 months ago and we knew back then Meggison was going to get really busy, how can it not with all the building that will be going on in Newall and way further down meggison. I thought I heard wingnut state there will be 30,000 more homes down meggison, that’s a huge amount of new homes

He said 13,000 in his video

[coffeebean]

Any idea when that will be???

Your guess is as good as mine.

[Marathon Man]

Why should Meggison Rd. be any different than say Morse and Prima Blvds?

The Morse Clan is now overbuilding the new villages South of CR-44 with the lack of building enough Shopping, Rec. Centers and Restaurants to entice new purchasers. These people need to drive North.

The 2 original owners of "The Villages" built these attractions to entice sales of homes yet to be built.

Shamefully now that the "Morse Clan" presently only wants to sell homes without providing the required facilities for new residents. This forces these people to travel to 466 or 466A and 441 to shop overcrowding the roads.

This was one reason we moved out of "The Villages" in 2020.

And yet here you are. By the way, your claims are not true.

[Nucky]

Did some jerk actually do that? If so, I'd love to meet him. Unfortunately for him it would take some time for them to disimpact his radar gun :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

I can confirm this. The other day I saw him out there with his Radar Gun. He sorta looked like this https://youtu.be/MJIEoBIK164.

Get a life. Too many people minding other people's business when they can't keep their own life in order!

[Altavia]

Just a quick correction....Meggison has a 30mph maximum speed limit through the Leesburg villages.

It's also a gated Villages entry.

[Mcnuke]

Yep, Sawgrass area needs a car/cart Stop light - like the one at Colony Rec. center.
» without one, It will surely be a nightmare when the new (Southern Oaks) Bridge opens.

The biggest omission I see, is that they didn't put a Tunnel across Meggison near SawGrass.

Not only does everyone on cart have to cross Meggison at Citrus Grove to continue down, but this will also be a gateway for crossing over the turnpike to get to Middleton and Eastport when they open.

[Woodbear]

The current population according to The Daily Sun is 144,700.

Who is included in the 145K number? Are these full time resident numbers? Are seasonal people included at all? The word "resident" could mean so many things.

[Calisport]

I am in Citrus Grove and I made sure that I was not close to Meggison because of the potential traffic there. I think you will get used to it though. We are not in the city so at least not so bad. There is no rush hour traffic like in a city where people have to get to work.

[Bogie Shooter]

Any idea when that will be???

Would it make any difference if you knew?

[Bogie Shooter]

Kind of obvious that the turnpike acting as a natural barrier has caused the developer to squeeze as many homes as possible into the available area, cutting corners wherever possible, eg
the baby town square of the aptly named sawgrass grove.

That was never called a town square…….