Issue #310: Traffic Relief Ahead for Pasco? | New Home Elevation Grants | Music Brings Healing at Moffitt

In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel
Local Pulse

Our Event Calendar

WEATHER

Local News

— Pasco Eyes Two Major Road Expansions to Ease Traffic Woes

— New Florida Program Covers 75% of Home Elevation Costs

Of Interest

— Young Pianist Brings Healing Through Music at Moffitt Cancer Center

Sports

— NHL’s All-Star Break Gets International Makeover with 4 Nations Face-Off

🎵 Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links

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Pasco Eyes Two Major Road Expansions to Ease Traffic Woes

Pasco County is advancing two road projects—the Rangeland Boulevard Extension and Bud Bexley Parkway Extension—to improve traffic flow and connectivity. These projects will create an east-west route parallel to SR 54.

Currently in the public input phase, officials are gathering feedback before finalizing plans.

The Rangeland Extension will be a four- or six-lane road with bike lanes, sidewalks, and a multi-use path, spanning 3.4 miles across the Suncoast Parkway. Estimated cost: $130 million.

The Bud Bexley Extension will be a four-lane divided road, spanning 2.6 miles with an overpass at CSX Railroad. Estimated cost: $120 million.

While Rangeland requires no relocations, Bud Bexley may displace 10 homes. Final reports are due this spring, but no construction timeline is set.

Meanwhile, FDOT will hold a March 25 hearing on the $516M 54/41 overpass project.

Read More: tampabeacon.com

New Florida Program Covers 75% of Home
Elevation Costs

Florida homeowners in flood-prone areas now have relief through Elevate Florida, a new state program covering 75-100% of costs to elevate homes and reduce flood risks.

The FEMA 50% rule requires homeowners with substantial flood damage to rebuild at higher elevations rather than just making repairs. This can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, leaving many struggling to comply.

Elevate Florida helps eligible homeowners by covering most costs, provided they contribute at least 25% of the total. Some may also qualify for Small Business Administration loans to offset additional expenses.

“This program lets me keep my home and make it storm-resistant,” said Holly Young, a St. Pete Beach resident.

Funded by federal disaster funds, the program aims to enhance community resilience against future storms. Eligible projects include elevation, mitigation reconstruction, and wind protection upgrades.

For more details or to apply, visit the Elevate Florida application portal.

Read More: wfla.com

Young Pianist Brings Healing Through Music at Moffitt Cancer Center

Milosz Gasior, a 21-year-old autistic, non-verbal pianist, is inspiring patients and staff at Moffitt Cancer Center with his extraordinary musical talent.

Milosz began playing piano at age seven, turning a simple hobby into a passion and now a way to give back. Every Friday morning, he plays at the hospital, offering a moment of peace to those facing difficult battles.

“When people close their eyes and listen, it’s wonderful to see that Milosz helps them relax,” said his mother, Bozena Gasior.

Moffitt staff recognize the power of music in reducing stress. Dr. Abid Ulhaque noted, “Music has the ability to calm the mind, especially during stressful times.”

Through his music, Milosz shares his voice, proving that art has no boundaries. His performances send a message of hope, strength, and resilience.

To follow his performances, visit his Facebook page.

Read More: abcactionnews.com

NHL’s All-Star Break Gets International Makeover with 4 Nations Face-Off

The 4 Nations Face-Off 2025 is a brand-new international hockey tournament replacing the traditional NHL All-Star break. Featuring top NHL players from Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland, this round-robin event will serve as a precursor to NHL players returning to the 2026 and 2030 Winter Olympics.

Tournament Format & Schedule

• Teams: Each roster includes 13 forwards, 7 defensemen, and 3 goalies.

• Scoring System:

  • 3 points for a regulation win

  • 2 points for an overtime/shootout win

  • 1 point for an overtime/shootout loss

  • 0 points for a regulation loss

• Locations:

  • Feb. 12-15: Bell Centre, Montreal

  • Feb. 17-20: TD Garden, Boston

• Finals: Top two teams compete on Feb. 20.

How to Watch

Games air on ESPN, ABC, TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, and TVAS.

This tournament promises elite international competition leading up to the Winter Olympics!

 Read More: flohockey.tv

Reader Comments

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“Good local coverage. Great job.”
“I’m not big on reading. But your news is short and right to the point! Very informative and quick and easy to read!

25 Biggest Music & Comedy Acts Coming to Tampa Bay
& Sarasota

Source: heraldtribune.com

Best Live Music in Tampa Bay this week
2/6 - 2/13

Source: cltampa.com

Top Things to do Around Tampa & WC
2/13 - 2/19
Source: tampabeacon.com

Guide to the Florida State Fair

See: tampabay.com — lots of good information

Things to Do Brought to You By:
NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links

The Arts
- USF College of the Arts
- USF Steinway Piano Concert Series

Theater
-NTPAC - New Tampa Performing Arts Center
- New Tampa Players
- USF School of Theatre & Dance
- Wesley Chapel Theater Group
- Carrollwood Players Theatre

Misc

- The Krate, WC
- The Shops at Wiregrass, WC

For Kids
- Fun4TampaKids

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