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Bonilla Pushes for Legal Overhaul in CFX Toll Road Dispute

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/2 .. for-legal-overhaul-in-cfx-toll-road-dispute.html
  Published in House and Home on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 7:54 GMT by Orlando Sentinel
      Locales: Florida, UNITED STATES

Orlando, FL - February 21st, 2026 - Orange County Commissioner Emily Bonilla is spearheading a push to dramatically alter the county's legal strategy in the ongoing dispute over the proposed Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) toll road, arguing that the current approach is insufficient to protect the interests of Orange County residents. Bonilla is advocating for the immediate replacement of the county's current legal counsel with a firm known for its aggressive litigation and expertise in transportation infrastructure challenges.

The core of the disagreement lies in the proposed route of the toll road. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is currently favoring a "split" design, which would bifurcate the toll road's path, sending branches through both Orange and Seminole Counties. This contrasts sharply with the preference of many local officials, including Bonilla, who envision a single, consolidated route that minimizes disruption and maximizes efficiency. The split route, critics argue, would exacerbate traffic congestion in certain areas, potentially harm environmentally sensitive lands, and disproportionately impact residential communities.

Commissioner Bonilla has publicly voiced her frustration with what she perceives as a passive legal defense. During a preliminary discussion earlier this week, she stated that the current counsel has been too accommodating to FDOT, failing to vigorously challenge the proposed split and adequately present the county's concerns. "We need a legal team that will fight for Orange County, not simply negotiate surrender," Bonilla declared. She believes a more proactive and assertive approach is crucial to ensuring the county's voice is heard and its priorities are respected.

The potential impacts of the toll road are significant. While proponents highlight the benefits of improved traffic flow and economic development, opponents emphasize the potential for environmental damage, displacement of residents, and increased noise pollution. The proposed split route, in particular, raises concerns about the fragmentation of communities and the creation of new traffic bottlenecks. Detailed environmental impact studies, while conducted, have been criticized by local advocacy groups as inadequate and failing to fully account for long-term consequences.

The CFX toll road is part of a larger statewide effort to address growing transportation needs and accommodate Florida's rapidly increasing population. However, the planning process has been fraught with controversy, with local governments often feeling sidelined in decisions that directly impact their communities. This situation in Orange County is not unique; similar disputes have emerged in other counties across the state, highlighting the need for greater collaboration and transparency in transportation planning.

The Orange County Commission is scheduled to discuss Bonilla's proposal at its next meeting on February 28th. The agenda includes a closed-door session to discuss legal strategies and evaluate potential replacement counsel. Several law firms specializing in transportation litigation have already expressed interest in representing the county. The selection process is expected to be rigorous, with commissioners emphasizing the need for a firm with a proven track record of success in similar cases.

Beyond simply changing legal representation, Bonilla is also advocating for a broader strategic shift. She proposes a comprehensive legal challenge that would not only dispute the split route but also question the overall necessity of the toll road, arguing that alternative solutions, such as improved public transportation and localized road improvements, have not been adequately explored. She suggests engaging expert witnesses in transportation planning, environmental science, and economic impact analysis to bolster the county's case.

Local activist groups are applauding Bonilla's stance. The "Citizens for Responsible Transportation," a prominent advocacy organization, released a statement praising her commitment to protecting Orange County's interests. "Commissioner Bonilla is demonstrating the leadership we need to ensure that this toll road benefits, rather than harms, our community," the statement read. The group plans to mobilize its members to attend the upcoming commission meeting and voice their support for a more aggressive legal strategy.

This legal battle is expected to be protracted and costly. However, Commissioner Bonilla believes the potential consequences of inaction are far greater. The future of transportation in Orange County, and the quality of life for its residents, may very well hinge on the outcome of this dispute.