Coconut Creek Commission Takes Legal Action to Halt Turnpike Expansion

by David Volz January 15, 2025

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Sawgrass Expressway at the Florida Turnpike {Google Maps}

The Coconut Creek Commission has voted to pursue legal action against the Florida Turnpike Enterprise’s proposed expansion, citing concerns about its negative impact on nearby communities.

During their January 9 meeting, commissioners directed city attorney Terrill Pyburn to file a lawsuit to block the project.

The contested expansion involves widening the Florida Turnpike (State Road 91) between Atlantic Boulevard and Wiles Road, as well as the Sawgrass Expressway from State Road 7 to Powerline Road.

According to the commission’s resolution, the project would encroach on residential areas west of the turnpike’s current centerline, disproportionately affecting these neighborhoods.

Details on the agenda highlighted several concerns, including increased noise, air pollution, and traffic congestion. In many areas, the proposed sound barrier walls would be placed just five feet from adjacent property lines, further encroaching on residents’ space and privacy.

Commissioner Joshua Rydell voiced strong support for the lawsuit, emphasizing the need to protect the lifestyle of residents who live near the turnpike. “Defending the lives, liberty, and property rights of our citizens is essential,” he said.

Commissioner Jeffrey Wasserman echoed this sentiment, calling on the city to unite in opposition to the expansion. “It’s important that we bring as much armor and artillery as possible to this fight,” he said. “I am ready to rock on this.”

Vice Mayor Jackie Railey underscored the potential harm to neighborhoods like Wynmoor and South Creek. She expressed concern about the proposal to add four lanes on the turnpike’s west side, which she said would severely impact Coconut Creek’s quality of life. “I am pleased the city is taking this stance and getting aggressive in the fight,” Railey added.

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David Volz

David Volz has worked as a writer in South Florida for 35 years. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, Hollywood Gazette, School Transportation News, South Dade News Leaders, Observer among others. He has an MA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University and a BA in Communications from Valparaiso University. Volz teaches Communications at Miami Dade College and Palm Beach State College. He lives in Coral Springs and enjoys running and participating in 5Ks and half-marathons.