ORANGE COUNTY, Florida. – As climate challenges intensify and communities grow, Orange County has seen an increase in flooding and infrastructure concerns.

District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson is tackling these issues head-on, prioritizing both immediate relief and long-term sustainable solutions for the district’s vulnerable neighborhoods. Neighborhoods like the intersection of Reams Road and Ficquette Road near Summerlake Boulevard will be heard at the Board of County Commissions meeting Tuesday at 9 a.m.

Residents are strongly encouraged to attend and participate in the meeting, which will include an opportunity for public comment.

This intersection provides a vital access point for Horizon West and neighboring communities, but has become increasingly dangerous due to persistent traffic and flooding, including following Hurricane Ian in 2022 and subsequent hurricanes. This year’s Helene and Milton.

The road remains vulnerable to significant flooding due to its proximity to conservation wetlands and Lake Hancock. Despite ongoing efforts by Orange County Public Works, the situation has not yet been resolved. The right turn lane between Ficquette Road and Summerlake Boulevard remained closed and flooded for nearly two weeks after Hurricane Milton.

Commissioner Wilson says flooding is caused by surrounding wetlands and retention ponds no longer managing runoff effectively. These wetlands, which were subject to conservation impact permits in 2019/2020, are now submerged, leading to dangerous road conditions. Emergency pumping and other temporary measures have failed to address the ongoing risk to public safety.

“I call on the Council to take urgent action to prevent further development in the affected area until permanent solutions can be implemented,” Wilson said. “Our residents deserve safe roads and infrastructure that keeps pace with growth. We need to give our Public Works team time to resolve these flooding issues before approving any new developments that could make the situation worse.

Commissioner Wilson is requesting that all development in this area be suspended until permanent flood solutions are implemented and the Reams and Ficquette Road expansion project can be completed. Residents have expressed serious concerns about driving on flooded roads and the ineffectiveness of current infrastructure to handle stormwater runoff and daily traffic jams.

For those who cannot attend in person, Wilson urges residents to stay informed and engaged by submitting concerns via email to [email protected] or call (407) 836-7312.

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