SR 19 Project Set To Move Into Umatilla

    In early April the section of SR 19 running through the city limits of Umatilla will begin to look at least a little similar to the project that has been underway for several months just to the south. The Florida Department of Transportation is set to begin a road project running from the south end of town north to Palmetto Street, with modifications planned that some residents may feel is similar to the $4 million project to the south that has been a big community topic for several months.
    City officials this week confirmed that the project will begin in early April and could continue until the first week of December. Planned are at least some median island closures and curb work, as well as a reworking of the intersection of SR 19 and CR 450 West. There, new lighting and arm-style traffic signals are expected to be installed, along with other safety improvements.
    The project is a scaled-down version of the state's original plan for the area, which had included shrinking the landscaped medians through town to allow for the placing of bike lanes on either side of the road. Additionally, downtown parking was to be reduced as part of the project, which was scuttled after concern was raised by the public and the City of Umatilla, which owns the medians.
    The length of the project could have an impact on community events in the coming fall, as city public works director Aaron Mercer confirmed that both the Umatilla High School Homecoming Parade and the annual Cracker Christmas community street parade, both held on the northbound lane of the highway, might not be able to be held in those locations in the coming year.
    The project has been estimated at costing $3 million, and will include new pavement.