A Tampa neighborhood is finally getting some answers, after residents say they've witnessed neglect at properties owned by the Florida Department of Transportation.
What You Need To Know
- Neighbors claim FDOT-owned lots (E 14th Ave.) have been neglected
- They say littering and loitering has become a problem over the last few months
- FDOT promises to address the issue
- Related: Homeowners worry expansion plan for I-275, I-4 interchange will impact their neighborhoods
"I'm not asking or miracles," said Eddie Duprey. "Clean your own stuff up!"
Duprey and his wife Emily own a house on East 14th Avenue next to an FDOT lot he says has been attracting litterers and loiters. So, he called the Department for help.
"She told me there is no more money the checkbook is locked up," Duprey said.
The couple is asking FDOT to put up barriers similar to the ones at another lot to avoid trespassing. While doing their own cleanup, the couple says they found all kinds of trash, including used needles and empty beer cans.
"I'm not asking for miracles!" said Ed Duprey. "I'm asking just clean your stuff up!" A Tampa neighborhood is finally getting some answers after residents say they've witnessed neglect at FDOT owned lots. They say Littering and loitering has increased. @BN9 pic.twitter.com/MxJDBRq6oJ
— Fadia Mayté Patterson M.S. (@FadiaTVNews) June 29, 2021
They've also seen unauthorized vehicles and unwanted guests.
"We caught somebody doing their business!," said Emily.
When Spectrum Bay News 9 reached out to FDOT on Monday, the department sent one of its contractors to check the following day.
"The FDOT contractor is constantly in the neighborhood cleaning up debris on the FDOT owned lots," FDOT said in a statement.
The department is also encouraging neighbors in the area to contact the police if they see illegal activity.
The Dupreys turn down FDOT's offer
The Florida Department of Transportation has purchased several lots and was given the right to acquire more to clear the path for the I-275, I-4 Interchange expansion project. The Duprey's declined an offer for their home.
"They don't even give you enough to buy yourself a trailer to live in!," said Eddie Duprey.
Both he and his wife are retired and say this is their forever home.
"So many years over here, you know?" said Emily "Trying to make it look nice, then they want to try to take it away from you?"
Now in their 60's, the Dupreys say they can't afford to start over. While they are still living on 14th Avenue, they expect every lot in that neighborhood to be maintained.
After inquiries from Spectrum Bay News 9, FDOT representatives paid a personal visit to the couple. They have promised to clean, trim trees, fix a broken fence and set up barriers to discourage trespassing.
