Marion County Couple’s Retirement Dreams Upended by Highway Construction
Nita and Tony Ipsale thought they found the perfect retirement home when they bought a secluded property on a quiet cul-de-sac in Marion County in 2024. But their peaceful plans were abruptly disrupted when construction crews arrived unannounced in early February 2026 to begin building a new four-lane highway right beside their house.
The county’s roadway project — which includes wider travel lanes, bike lanes, a median, and turn lanes — was detailed on official planning documents, but the Ipsales say they were never informed about it before purchasing their home.
The sudden construction has had real-world impacts: Nita, who has chronic pulmonary issues, said the dust and noise are already harming her health, and the project is expected to last at least a year. Additionally, the widening will take part of their driveway, raising questions about how they’ll access their property or move their camper once the road is complete.
Feeling blindsided, the couple is urging county officials to buy their home since neighboring properties were acquired but theirs wasn’t. So far, the county has not responded to their requests for comment.
The experience has left them vowing to do more careful research before any future home purchase, to avoid unforeseen developments like this one.
How It Relates to Your Property
The Ipsales’ story offers a powerful lesson for every current and future homeowner: due diligence doesn’t stop at the property line. Before you buy — and even after you do — understanding what’s planned around you may be just as important as what’s built on your land.
Impact Check exists for moments like this. We track infrastructure projects in your area so you’re not caught off guard by what’s happening beyond your fence line. From proposed road widenings to major utility expansions, we help you see potential impacts early — before construction begins, before access changes, and before your property’s comfort or long-term value is put at risk. Because when it comes to your home, surprises shouldn’t be part of the plan.
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