Incomplete Environmental Review

JTA claims the initial environmental review was done during “30% design” under NEPA.
In reality, they obtained a Categorical Exclusion (CE), which means they were not required to study impacts on biodiversity, water resources, cultural resources, traffic, or tree canopy.
This is not the same as a full Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). 

Lack of Transparency

At the May 14, 2025 meeting and after , residents specifically asked for copies of environmental studies. No response was given.
The State of Florida Historic Preservation  simply noted no historic buildings would  “ likely “ be impacted. They advised  that any questions regarding  broader environmental studies would have to be directed to JTA .

When asked how many trees would be lost, JTA has refused to commit to an answer.
If a true study exists that justifies the Categorical Exclusion, why hasn’t it ever been presented to the public? They have stated that tree impact can only be revealed at the 90 per cent design completion . But by the time a project design reaches 90 per cent , isn’t it essentially a done deal?  Waiting unto that late stage to acknowledge tree loss or environmental harm makes it nearly impossible for the community to have a real voice , or for meaningful changes to be made . Transparency and accountability should happen at the beginning , not when the project is already locked in . 

Community Opposition Ignored

Overwhelming opposition to the project was clearly recorded at the May 14, 2025 meeting.
The Mandarin Community Club—a bastion of Mandarin’s legacy since 1923  whose mission is to preserve the look, feel, and history of Mandarin—is 100% opposed to this project.
Despite this, JTA continues to press forward as though community sentiment and cultural preservation do not matter.

Safety Narrative- Where are the Safety studies ?

JTA and the City are exaggerating safety hazards to justify this project. Mandarin Road is not designed for heavy pedestrian traffic, and forcing sidewalks under the guise of “safety” ignores the true nature and history of this scenic road.

Key Points still Unanswered 

How will biodiversity be affected — including changes to animal habitats, nesting areas, pollinators, and the disruption of native plants?
What will be the impacts on water and flooding in an area already prone to drainage concerns?
How will air quality be affected by the removal of tree cover and disruption of the natural canopy?

How will the removal of trees impact shade cover, heat increases, and local microclimate?
What exactly happens to tree roots when concrete is dug into them?
What alternative substrates (other than concrete) have been considered?
Why can’t JTA commit to a design that ensures no loss of trees?
Will independent arborists, not employed by the City or JTA , be engaged to review and certify the true impacts on Mandarin’s tree canopy?

This fight is not about rumors—it is about truth, transparency, and accountability. JTA and the City want to frame this project as inevitable, but the facts show otherwise: no full environmental study has been shared, the impacts on trees, air, water, and wildlife remain unknown, and the overwhelming voices of Mandarin residents and the Mandarin Community Club have been ignored.

If this project moves forward without answers, we risk permanently losing the shade, beauty, and character that define Mandarin. Once the trees are cut and the road is changed, there is no going back.

That is why we stand together and why your continued support matters. Every question we raise, every signature we gather, and every voice we add makes it harder to silence the truth. Mandarin deserves better. Mandarin deserves answers.