Duke Energy has made a surprising offer with regard to the future of an unsanctioned golf cart path that connects The Villages with Lowe’s and Wal-Mart in Summerfield.
The golf cart path for years has provided a crucial link for shoppers from both The Villages and Stonecrest.
Some feared the golf cart trail was in jeopardy when earlier this year Duke Energy posted No Trespassing signs on its section of the trail.
“Duke Energy is unable to constantly monitor the pedestrian and golf cart traffic along the path. After noticing an increase in traffic and other unapproved activities on the property, additional trespassing signs were posted for the safety of the public,” Duke Energy wrote in a recent letter to area residents.
And then Duke’s letter took a surprising turn. The company said it wants to preserve the use of the path for residents. The company said it is working to transfer ownership of this section of property to another party for free or transfer liability by way of an encroachment agreement.
Duke Energy is meeting with residents and business owners about the matter. The company hopes to have the matter resolved by the end of the year.
If an agreement is not reached, the company said it will have no choice but to close the path.
If anyone has ideas they would like to discuss with Duke Energy, they are encouraged to contact the company at (800) 700-8744.
Earlier this year, residents who regularly use the path got together and made major improvement to the trail. They brought in heavy equipment and collected donations for the improvements. You can read more about that HERE