The main entrance to Panther Ridge at State Road 70 and 197th Street East will close completely for approximately 45 days beginning Sept. 30 as construction continues on the widening of State Road 70.
The closure is expected to remain in place through mid-November while the Florida Department of Transportation constructs a new roundabout at the intersection.
Residents will have to use alternate routes during the closure, raising concerns among some neighbors about longer travel times for routine trips and emergency response.
According to FDOT project information, emergency vehicles will continue to have access through 197th Street during the construction period. Some Panther Ridge residents are asking FDOT to consider allowing limited residential access as well, particularly during peak travel periods.
Longtime resident Bruce Kasper said the detour could significantly increase travel time to nearby stores and restaurants. He is also concerned about whether the closure could affect how quickly emergency services reach residents.
Other residents say the temporary inconvenience is necessary to address longstanding traffic and safety concerns along the State Road 70 corridor.
Resident Scott King supports the project and pointed to serious and fatal crashes that have occurred in the area over the years. He believes the roundabout and other roadway improvements will ultimately create safer conditions for residents and motorists traveling through the area.
The larger State Road 70 improvement project includes additional travel lanes, roundabouts, sidewalks and other roadway improvements.
Construction on the overall project is scheduled to be completed by summer 2027.