The City of New Port Richey has partnered with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to submit applications to allow golf cart crossings at the intersections of US Highway 19 at Gulf Drive and at Marine Parkway. “Under current State law, golf cart use and operation on state roads is authorized only under certain circumstances. FDOT must review proposed golf cart crossings along the State Highway System to provide safety and uniformity within the State of Florida,” stated City Manager Debbie L. Manns. Data including the location, design, and any traffic control devices must be reviewed and approved prior to installation of a golf cart crossing the State Highway System, even if a municipal street has been designated for use by golf carts. The average time for data review and approval following a complete application submittal is likely 4-6 weeks.
City Manager Manns continued, “the City’s current ordinance allows golf carts to operate on most city streets, however our city limits are divided by US Highway 19. The City’s applications will allow those residents who live west of US Highway 19 to cross safely so that they may enjoy all that our downtown has to offer and vice versa.”
The City acknowledges that many golf cart owners would like to see Main Street as an approved location as well, however the data currently shows traffic volume is too high. FDOT has indicated Main Street may be evaluated after the first two crossings have been in place for one year so that data can be gathered and evaluated on the safe operation of these intersections.
For more information regarding the City’s applications, please contact the Public Works Department at (727) 841-4536.