This report is an informational item highlighting the status on the construction of sidewalk improvements in proximity to Belmont Elementary “D” and Sumner High School “TTT”, located in the Belmont subdivision.  

There are currently two items of concern that are impacting students ability to safely walk in both directions to Belmont Elementary “D” and Sumner High School “TTT”:

1. An existing bridge, located east of US Highway 301, does not provide adequate off-street walking space for pedestrians and upon further review by staff may be considered a hazardous walking condition (per Florida Statute 1006.23);

2. FDOT’s US Highway 301 and County Road 672 (Balm Road) Intersection improvement project

School Board staff was originally informed that all of the sidewalks would be constructed prior to the opening of Belmont Elementary “D” and Sumner High School “TTT”. Also, FDOT’s current construction schedule for the aforementioned intersection project will start in 2021. Therefore, the School District will be required to bus students through this intersection until the necessary roadway improvements are completed. Then, School Board staff will reassess the hazardous walking condition after FDOT improvements are completed.

Hillsborough County Public Works Department has provided a timeline of the completion dates for the construction of these sidewalk segments (please see attached.)