Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/341318
said a plan for a roundabout at Interstate 75 and University would call for [seven lanes]." Warner, a roundabout proponent, thinks that might be overkill. "A seven-lane roundabout would be so bizarre," he pointed out. Nonetheless, it has become clear that FDOT officials are "planning for huge growth into the future," Warner said. For example, FDOT engineers are also working on plans to expand I-75 to 12 lanes. While it is focused on construction of the interchange, FDOT is expecting Sarasota and Manatee counties to take the lead on roadway improvements needed to make it function smoothly. Sarasota County will be relying to some extent on help from Schroeder Manatee Ranch Inc., developer of Lakewood Ranch, and Benderson, developer of the new Mall at University Town Center. Both firms are obligated to assist with infrastructure improvements under the terms of develop- ment agreements with the county and impact fee guidelines. COUNTY COMMISSION CONCERNS At a Sarasota Tiger Bay Club meeting last month, state Rep. Greg Steube, R-Sarasota, pointed out that an alternative funding scheme could provide state money for the diverging diamond project even though an FDOT request for state assistance this year failed. Momentum does appear to be building. The project is in the design phase already; the state does not need to purchase any extra right of Attendees at the July 26 meeting watch a video explaining how a diverging diamond functions. Photo by Roger Drouin Sarasota News Leader July 4, 2014 Page 34