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Narrow Prospect Will Be Widened

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By KEVIN WIATROWSKI

kwiatrowski@tampatrib.com

Published: November 14, 2008

DADE CITY - Nearly two dozen drivers wrecked their cars on the eastern half of Prospect Road last year, compelling state highway officials to improve the narrow country road in rural northeast Pasco County.

Beginning next year, the state Department of Transportation will spend nearly $1 million to upgrade Prospect Road between Handcart and Clinton roads. That stretch includes a 90-degree curve to the north that can take many drivers unfamiliar with the road by surprise.

County Commissioner Ted Schrader said the improvements are needed.

"Since State Road 52 is becoming much more of a driven road, more people are finding Prospect Road," Schrader said. "Some of them may well be surprised by the sharp curve."

Schrader's concern about traffic on Prospect Road has grown because of the number of dump trucks using the narrow road as they come and go from dirt pits on the west side of Dade City.

In 2007, the most recent year for which figures are available, county and state officials recorded 21 crashes on Prospect between Handcart and Clinton.
Schrader asked the DOT last month to explore ways to improve traffic on Prospect Road. The DOT found money in a state fund aimed at improving rural roads, said Bob Clifford, planning director for the DOT's Tampa office.

The list of improvements for the road includes widening both lanes to 12 feet and raising the outside shoulder to create a banking curve that will help hold cars on the road. DOT crews will also install a guardrail on the curve and flashing lights before and after it.

Reporter Kevin Wiatrowski can be reached at (813) 948-4201.

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