Conflicting Views on RPMs Divide The Villages

Community districts debate the use of Raised Pavement Markings on multi-modal paths

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:28pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a raised pavement marking (RPM) icon repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the debate over the use of RPMs on multi-modal paths in The Villages.Conflicting views on the use of RPMs on multi-modal paths in The Villages expose the challenges of balancing safety and community needs.The Villages Today

The Villages, a vibrant Florida community, is embroiled in a debate over the use of Raised Pavement Markings (RPMs) on its multi-modal paths. While some districts have installed the markings to improve visibility and safety, others are hesitant, citing concerns from an engineer's report about potential dangers for bicyclists. The conflicting views highlight the complexities of balancing community needs and road safety.

Why it matters

The debate over RPMs in The Villages reflects the broader challenges communities face in designing infrastructure that meets the diverse needs of residents. As populations age, the importance of improving visibility and accessibility becomes paramount, but solutions must also address safety concerns for all users of multi-modal paths.

The details

The Community Development District 5 Board of Supervisors has spent approximately $12,000 to install RPMs on multi-modal paths along County Road 466 and Buena Vista Boulevard, while the Community Development District 2 Board is considering a similar move at a cost of less than $5,000. However, the Community Development District 3 Board remains opposed to RPMs, citing an engineer's report that raises safety concerns, particularly for bicyclists.

  • In 2025, an engineer's report warned of potential hazards posed by RPMs on straightaways in The Villages.
  • In 2026, the Community Development District 5 Board of Supervisors spent approximately $12,000 to install RPMs on multi-modal paths in their district.
  • In 2026, the Community Development District 2 Board of Supervisors is considering installing RPMs at a cost of less than $5,000.

The players

Community Development District 5 Board of Supervisors

The board that made the decision to install RPMs on multi-modal paths in their district, spending approximately $12,000 on the project.

Community Development District 2 Board of Supervisors

The board that is considering installing RPMs on multi-modal paths in their district, with an estimated cost of less than $5,000.

Community Development District 3 Board of Supervisors

The board that remains opposed to the installation of RPMs on multi-modal paths, citing an engineer's report that raises safety concerns, particularly for bicyclists.

Dennis Richards

The chairman of the Community Development District 2 Board of Supervisors, who highlights the challenges faced by older individuals in low-light conditions and the need for improved visibility.

Engineer

The author of a report from last year that raised safety concerns about the use of RPMs on straightaways in The Villages.

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What they’re saying

“We must heed the engineer's report, as it warns of potential hazards for bicyclists and other users. The risks outweigh the benefits, especially on straightaways where RPMs might not be as effective.”

— Community Development District 3 Board of Supervisors

“The markings can significantly improve visibility, especially for older individuals who may struggle with bright headlights. This perspective highlights the importance of considering the needs of an aging population in road design.”

— Community Development District 5 Board of Supervisors

“The challenges faced by older individuals in low-light conditions emphasize the need for improved visibility on our multi-modal paths.”

— Dennis Richards, Chairman, Community Development District 2 Board of Supervisors

What’s next

The Community Development District 2 Board of Supervisors will decide whether to move forward with the installation of RPMs on their multi-modal paths in the coming months.

The takeaway

The debate over RPMs in The Villages highlights the need for a collaborative approach that balances the diverse needs of the community, including the safety concerns of different user groups and the accessibility requirements of an aging population. By embracing innovation and community engagement, the districts can find a solution that enhances the overall well-being of their residents.