Local leaders still divided on Welaunee Boulevard project as construction begins

City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow and District 5 County Commissioner David O’Keefe also oppose the project.

Blueprint initially estimated the project budget at about $95 million, but that later grew to $134 million. Blueprint cited increases in material costs, construction prices and real estate values as reasons for the increase.

The project is expected to be completed in Spring 2026.

WCTV reached out to all city and county commissioners for comment Wednesday. Here’s what they had to say:

“The total economic impact from the planned development resulting from the Northeast Gateway project is estimated to be between $2.2 and $8.2 billion, representing a sizable return on investment back into our community. This gateway will improve connectivity and reduce traffic congestion, which will greatly benefit residents and help accommodate the area’s continued growth.”

-John Dailey / Tallahassee Mayor

“I am very pleased to see plans that began more than 30 years ago finally being realized. This project is another example of how we are moving our community forward to prepare for future growth and transportation needs.”

- Dianne Williams-Cox / City Commissioner

“I’m disappointed that we are spending $129 million of sales tax dollars for a road that mainly benefits the developers and landowners in its path—a path cutting through our cherished greenways. Like many neighbors, I want us to do better than this.”

- David O’Keefe / County Commissioner, District 5

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