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Safety Harbor To Green Philippe Parkway

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By Mark  Schantz | The Suncoast News

Published: January 12, 2008

SAFETY HARBOR, Fla. - SAFETY HARBOR, Fla. - Other cities could become green with envy when they see Safety Harbor's landscaping efforts along Philippe Parkway.

Monday night, William Baker, city engineer, told city commissioners it is time for Safety Harbor to be recognized for its green projects.

Recognition could come with the city greening asphalt stretches of Philippe Parkway from Main Street to Enterprise Road, which is maintained by the city, he explained.

A new coat of asphalt is the cause of the rocky ride on the roadway.

Instead of repaving this section of parkway with 1,032 tons of asphalt, Baker proposed installation of landscaped medians that narrow to provide left-turn lanes. Paved shoulders of the roadway would be replaced with sod. Nonessential deceleration lanes would be reduced or eliminated.

The design would be a tremendous enhancement, deter speeders and make the roadway leading into the city pedestrian friendly, Commissioner Keith Zayac said during Monday's commission meeting.

Mayor Andy Steingold said Baker's concept sounds like the city could receive an environmental award for its efforts.

He said it could enhance the quality of life for residents and make the stretch of road more attractive to bikers, runners and pedestrians.

Commissioner Joseph Ayoub said he supports the beautification effort.

It will take about two years to design the project and put it out for bid.

City commissioners allocated $300,000 for the greening project. Baker said acquisition of grants and cost savings could reduce the final price tag on the project.

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