Venice: Concern over the construction of The Woodlands project is leading to flooding and stress on the local roadway
Shannon Thinnes
I apologize for the length of this, wanted you to know the history.
Back in May of 2015 a large group of my neighbors and concerned citizens opposed the approval of a Neal community named “The Woods” on Border Road. There were legitimate concerns regarding flooding, density and wildlife corridor compatibility with the 2050 Comp Plan. Despite a three-day City Council meeting packed with public disapproval the project was passed. Neal Communities had the good sense to walk away and sell the controversial swamp land.
Now, in 2020, the project is under construction and renamed “The Woodlands.” Remember, the land is part of the Myakka Floodplain and considered to be a Special Flood Hazard Area. The projects retention ponds and drainage system are not functioning, the builder has modified and disrupted the drainage system for the public road and created standing water that has remained for approximately a year, even during very dry times. As you drive down Jackson Rd. to enter into my neighborhood, it looks like we live in a swamp.
If the development is unable to retain its rainwater runoff during normal weather conditions, what will happen during a tropical depression/hurricane?
All of the objections voiced in 2015 have become a reality. During a flood event, the access road to my home will be incapacitated. To make matters worse Jackson Rd. is now being used as a construction entrance. The waterlogged road is showing signs of stress and damage.
These issues have been repeatedly brought to the attention of City Council, Kathleen Weeden, SWFWMD and Sarasota County. No action has been taken to rectify the situation and construction continues despite the demise of an existing neighborhood. The homeowners being affected continue to get the run-around from the municipalities responsible for this monstrosity. Anything you can do to bring attention to this matter would be greatly appreciated.
