MARION COUNTY, Fla. – A Marion County couple’s retirement dreams have been shattered after discovering their recently purchased home will soon sit alongside a four-lane highway, a development they say came without warning.
Nita and Tony Ipsale bought their new home on what they thought was a secluded cul-de-sac in 2024. Just two weeks ago, construction crews arrived unannounced and began clearing trees, transforming their peaceful country road into a major construction zone.
“It’s devastating, totally devastating,” said Nita Ipsale. “We always talked about when we buy a house we’ll never be on a main road. And we got the worst road being put in.”
The county’s plans, detailed on their website, reveal the project will create a four-lane divided road featuring wider lanes, bike lanes in each direction, and a raised median with turn lanes. The Ipsales say they were completely unaware of these plans until construction crews appeared at their doorstep.
The construction has already impacted their quality of life.
“I have chronic pulmonary issues. And I can’t be breathing this all the time. And it’s going to last a year. At least a year,” Nita explained.
Beyond the immediate construction concerns, the couple faces practical challenges. The project will claim a portion of their driveway, raising concerns about basic access to their property.
“It’s like a stress every day,” Tony Ipsale said. “The noise and the dirt. And the future that we don’t have. How are we going to get in and out of our driveway? How are we going to get our camper out?”
The Ipsales are calling on Marion County officials to consider buying their property.
“The right thing to do would be have someone come out and evaluate what we have, what we’ve invested in the house. And buy us out. Help us get into a better situation,” Tony said.
Marion County officials have not yet responded to requests for comment about why the Ipsales’ home wasn’t included in property acquisitions for the project, while surrounding properties were purchased.
The experience has left the couple determined to be more thorough in any future home purchases.
“If they do come and take it, which, God please! I’m gonna do so much research on the next house that I buy! I’m gonna make sure there’s no plans, no permits,” Nita said.