In Hobe Sound, Florida, a planned direct connection between Florida’s Turnpike and I-95 in Martin County is causing concern for a local landowner. Zach Gaza, who owns the Hobe Sound Farmer’s Market, fears that the proposed interchange could significantly impact his 126-acre farm, which is located between the two major highways. The favored design for the interchange includes an overpass that may cut through Gaza’s property, potentially affecting key areas of his farm, including a cow-calf operation and an apiary. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) aims to enhance connectivity, safety, and emergency response in the region with this project, which is estimated to cost $309 million and could take up to a decade to complete. While FDOT plans to integrate this construction with a Turnpike widening project, Gaza remains worried about the lack of communication and the potential changes to his farm’s landscape. Despite the uncertainties, he is determined to defend his land and livelihood.
Will a new I-95/Turnpike link threaten a Hobe Sound farm?
