Traffic Watch for Manatee and Sarasota Counties - Week of September 27, 2026

Motorists are reminded to wear safety belts and drive with caution, courtesy, common sense, and patience as they travel through work zones. Remember, speeding fines are doubled in work zones.

As a reminder, travelers can visit www.FL511.com or dial "511" from their phone to learn about traffic conditions on major roadways across the state. If you know before you go, you can plan accordingly and save time and money.

MANATEE COUNTY

Districtwide Moveable Bridges (Manatee County): Construction project: Crews will begin the installation of pedestrian/bicycle detection systems, conduits and electrical components, and connections to the bridge tender buildings.

Construction on the following bridges will continue:

S.R. 684 Sarasota Pass Bridge (Cortez Road),
S.R. 64 Sarasota Pass Bridge (Anna Maria), and
S.R. 789 Longboat Key Pass Bridge (Longboat)

• Testing began in early February 2026.

• Motorists are advised that there will be intermittent sidewalk and lane closures throughout the duration of construction.

• Motorists should expect lane closures during the nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.

• Motorists are advised to use caution in the construction zone.

Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway. Estimated completion of testing is in late 2026, weather permitting.

I-275 (S.R. 93) from I-75 to Terra Ceia River: Construction project: Crews are milling, resurfacing, and installing pavement markings on 2.2 miles of roadway on I-275 (S.R. 93) from I-75 to Terra Ceia River. The project improvements include milling and resurfacing, shoulder and ramp work, overbuilding for cross-slope correction, guardrail and signing, and pavement markings.

• Motorists may encounter shoulder closures during the day for final paving/punch list items – weather permitting.

• Estimated completion is mid- to late-2026.

I-75 (S.R. 93) at the Intersection of S.R. 64 and S.R. 70: Construction project: This project is for the construction of Arterial Dynamic Message Signs (ADMS) on I-75 at two interchanges in Manatee County. The items of work include the construction of ADMS, fiber optic cable, conduit, pull and splice boxes, verification closed circuit television (VCCTVs) cameras, power subsystem infrastructure, and device integration.

• Motorists can expect a temporary right-hand closure on eastbound S.R. 70 prior to the I-75 interchange while crews perform utility work from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the next several weeks. Schedule details will be posted as they become available.

Please use caution and watch for workers in or near the travel lanes. Expected completion is late-2026.

I-75 South of S.R. 64 Exit: Maintenance project: FDOT will be conducting intermittent lane closures on the southbound right two lanes as they replace Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) on I-75 south of the S.R. 64 exit from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. on September 28-30. Watch for workers and lane closures/lane shifts during the operation.

I-75 South of S.R. 70 Exit: Maintenance project: FDOT will be conducting intermittent lane closures on the southbound right two lanes as they replace Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) on I-75 south of the S.R. 70 exit from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. on September 28-30. Watch for workers and lane closures/lane shifts during the operation.

U.S. 301 North of Moccasin Wallow Roundabouts: Permit project: Paving operations will continue on U.S. 301 roundabouts through October 31 from 7 p.m. until 6 a.m. Please be aware of lane shifts and intermittent lane closures with flaggers. New side street access and sidewalks will remain closed. Weather can affect the schedule, and additional nights may be needed.

U.S. 301 North of State Road (S.R.) 62/Erie Road: Railway maintenance project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will have temporary overnight single-lane closures at the railroad crossing while crews conduct maintenance upgrades to the railroad dynamic envelope (RDE) markings. Upgrades will require intermittent closure of one lane at a time from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. through September 24, weather permitting.

U.S. 41/ State Road (S.R.) 45 from Edwards Drive to Magellan Drive: Construction project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will begin milling and resurfacing U.S. 41/ S.R. 45 from Edwards Drive to Magellan Drive, U.S. 41/S.R. 45 from south of General Spaatz Boulevard to north of Edwards Drive and U.S. 41/S.R. 45 over Bowlees Creek Bridge. Improvements will also include median modifications, lighting, signalization, drainage, curb and gutter, and guardrail removal/replacement within the project limits. Part of the project will include median modifications to the center lane, where raised medians will be installed to increase safety and reduce conflict points along the corridor. The project spans just over 2.5 miles and the estimated completion is early 2028.

• Motorists should expect temporary median barriers to be in place while median modifications are underway. Watch for changes to traffic patterns, lane shifts, lane closures and the potential for construction vehicles entering/exiting the work areas.

• Motorists can expect temporary daytime/overnight lane closures with lane shifts and the potential for uneven lanes throughout the project limits.

• Motorists can expect typical construction sounds from construction equipment during daytime /overnight hours.

• Estimated completion is early 2028.

U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) South of I-75: Railway maintenance project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will have temporary overnight single-lane closures at the railroad crossing while crews conduct maintenance upgrades to the railroad dynamic envelope (RDE) markings. Upgrades will require intermittent closure of one lane at a time from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. through September 24, weather permitting.

U.S. 41 (S.R. 55/S. Tamiami Trail) from 301 Boulevard to the Red Barn Flea Market: Maintenance project: FDOT will perform concrete sidewalk and driveway repairs on U.S. 41 (S.R. 55/S. Tamiami Trail) between 301 Boulevard and the Red Barn Flea Market. Work is scheduled to continue through September from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Motorists should expect possible daytime lane closures both northbound and southbound. Please watch for lane shifts and workers in the area.

U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) from Terra Ceia Bay Boulevard to 17th Street West: Permit project: There will be an intermittent southbound outside lane closure on U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) from Terra Ceia Bay Boulevard to 17th Street W from September 28 through October 6, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The contractor for FPL will be replacing equipment on existing poles Please use caution, watch for lane shifts and workers.

S.R. 684/Cortez Road from 75th Street West to 86th Street West: Permit project: There will be east/westbound inside and outside lane closures on S.R. 684/Cortez Road from 75th Street West to 86th Street West through the end of September from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The contractor will be constructing right turn lanes, median dual left turns, two intersection improvements, side street improvements, signing, pavement markings and drainage improvements.

S.R. 684/Cortez Road from 86th Street West to West of 30th Street West: Construction project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is milling and resurfacing Cortez Road (S.R. 684) from 86th Street West to west of 30th Street West. Improvements will also include drainage, sidewalk improvements, signal work, mast arm replacement and ITS additions within the project limits. The project spans just over 3.47 miles. Weather may affect times and schedules.

• The eastbound traffic shift on Cortez Road from 67th Street West to Timber Lane will remain in place as well as the westbound left turn lane closure and detour at 66th Street.

• Motorists can expect intermittent daytime/nighttime lane closures throughout the project limits.

• Please be aware there may be uneven areas of pavement while work is in progress.

• Noise from construction equipment can be expected while work is underway.

• Pedestrians can expect detours where sidewalks are being repaired or replaced.

• Please follow signage and watch for workers in and near the roadway during daytime and nighttime hours.

• The estimated completion is late 2027.

S.R. 70 from Lorraine Road to Bourneside Boulevard: Construction project: This project includes widening S.R. 70 from Lorraine Road to Bourneside Boulevard from a two-lane undivided roadway to a four-lane or six-lane divided roadway, depending on the location, construction of roundabouts on S.R. 70 at Uihlein Road, Del Webb Boulevard, and Bourneside Boulevard, intersection improvements at the existing signalized intersection of Greenbrook Boulevard and Lorraine Road, construction of four bridges over two Braden River crossing locations, new drainage system, construction of 10-foot shared use paths, street lighting, and landscaping, and installation of new fiber optic cable connecting the two signalized intersections to Manatee County's regional Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS).

Recently, bicyclists and pedestrians have been observed entering the work zone and using shared-use paths within the project limits. Although these areas may appear finished, construction activities are still ongoing. These areas are not open to the public and may contain open excavations, fresh asphalt, or uncured concrete, posing significant safety hazards to anyone not affiliated with the project. These roadways and shared-use paths within the work zone are clearly marked as closed with signage. Additionally, vehicles have been observed driving through closed side streets while workers are present, creating a serious risk of injury or accident.

This week's work will consist of:

• Excavation of the pond on the north side of S.R. 70, west of Uihlein Road.

• Grading of the approach slabs for the easternmost S.R. 70 westbound bridge. Tying steel and forming for the approach slab.

• Installation of waterline on the north side of S.R. 70 between Lorraine Road and Post Boulevard.

• Construction of concrete drainage flumes east of Bourneside Boulevard. Finishing drainage structures throughout the project.

• Installation of light poles and lighting conduit on the north side of S.R. 70.

• Grading stabilization and base material for the future westbound S.R. 70 roadway between Uihlein Road and Garnet Trail.

Polo Trail at S.R. 70 will be closed beginning Monday, October 5, for approximately 30 days to allow crews to construct Polo Trail and the future westbound lanes at the entrance. During the closure, no vehicles will be permitted to use Polo Trail. A full detour will be in place, and message boards will be posted to guide motorists through the area. Polo Trail is anticipated to reopen in early November, weather permitting.

The estimated completion date for construction is summer 2027.

S.R. 70 from Bourneside Boulevard to Waterbury Road, Bradenton: Construction project: This project includes widening S.R. 70 from Bourneside Boulevard to Waterbury Road from a two-lane undivided roadway to a four-lane divided roadway, Safety features will include roundabouts to be constructed at 197th Street East/Lindrick Lane, 213th Street East, 225th Street East/Panther Ridge Trail and County Road 675/Waterbury Road. The project will also include the installation of a new drainage system, new curb and gutter, construction of 10-foot shared-use paths and five-foot paved shoulders on both sides of the roadway, street lighting throughout the project and landscaping inside the roundabouts.

This week's work will consist of:

• Grading the swale and installing sod on the south side of S.R. 70 between Lindrick Lane and Bourneside Boulevard.

• Hauling and grading roadway embankment for the north side of the roundabout at 213th Street. Grading shared use path in the 213th Street vicinity.

• Forming and tying steel for a box culvert across existing S.R. 70 east of 225th Street.

• Traffic will be switched to eastbound lanes between Bourneside Blvd. to east of Lindrick Lane. This operation will require lane closures and flagging. Be aware of project personnel controlling traffic.

• Removal of existing curb and pavement at 197th Street and existing S.R. 70.

197th Street at S.R. 70 will be closed beginning September 30 for approximately 45 days to allow crews to construct the north side of the 197th Street roundabout. During the closure, only emergency vehicles will be permitted to enter or exit 197th Street via S.R. 70. All other traffic will be detoured. The Manatee County School Board will be coordinating all bus route and pickup changes during the closure. A full detour will be in place, and message boards will be posted to guide motorists through the area. 197th Street is anticipated to reopen in mid-November, weather permitting.

The estimated completion date for construction is summer 2027.

S.R. 70 from West of Brendle Road to West of Curtis Road: Testing project: FDOT will have a mobile operation on October 19 as crews conduct a falling weight deflection test from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. No lane closures are anticipated, but motorists are advised to be aware of lane changes and the potential for workers in or near the roadway.

S.R. 64 at Uihlein Road Roundabout: Permit project: Developer's crews are constructing a roundabout and adding lanes at the intersection of S.R. 64 and Uihlein Road through the end of October 2026. Plan for additional travel time or consider an alternate route. Please watch for lane shifts, detours and construction workers.

S.R. 64 at the Intersection of Upper Manatee River Road/Lakewood Ranch Boulevard: Permit project: Manatee County will be constructing a watermain project at the intersection of S.R. 64 and Upper Manatee River Road starting on August 3 with an expected completion date of late November. Motorists can expect eastbound dual left turn lane closures from S.R. 64 onto Upper Manatee River Road while the roadwork is underway. Please use caution through the entire intersection and watch for lane shifts, detours and construction workers.

S.R. 64 from East of Lorriane Road to West of C.R. 675: Testing project: FDOT will have a mobile operation on October 20 as crews conduct a falling weight deflection test from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. No lane closures are anticipated, but motorists are advised to be aware of lane changes and the potential for workers in or near the roadway.

S.R. 64 from Wingate Road to the Hardee County Line: Testing project: FDOT will have a mobile operation on October 20 as crews conduct a falling weight deflection test from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. No lane closures are anticipated, but motorists are advised to be aware of lane changes and the potential for workers in or near the roadway.

S.R. 62 from East of S.R. 43 to East of S.R. 37: Testing project: FDOT will have a mobile operation on October 21 as crews conduct a falling weight deflection test from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on October 22 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. No lane closures are anticipated, but motorists are advised to be aware of lane changes and the potential for workers in or near the roadway.

S.R. 55 (U.S. 19) and S.R. 684; from 23rd Avenue W to 39th Street E, from Terra Ceia Road to I-275 and at Royal Palm Drive, Manatee: Construction project: These projects include making improvements along S.R. 55 (U.S. 19) from 23rd Avenue W to 39th Street E, S.R. 55 (U.S. 19) from Terra Ceia Road to I-275 (northbound ramp) and along S.R. 684 at Royal Palm Drive in Manatee County. Improvements will involve milling and resurfacing S.R. 55 from 23rd Avenue W to 39th Street E, implementing safety improvements, guardrail replacements, sidewalk repair, lighting updates, pedestrian signal replacements, and median modifications.

Motorists traveling on S.R. 55 should expect intermittent lane closures in either the northbound or southbound direction from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. nightly, Monday, September 28, through Thursday, October 1.

• 39th Street E to Riverfront Boulevard/Manatee River Bridge: Thermoplastic striping operations.

Drivers may encounter striping vehicles traveling in convoy formation at reduced speeds while pavement markings are installed. Motorists should use caution and be prepared for slow-moving vehicles within the work zone.

Daytime Closures: From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday, September 28, through Friday, October 2, motorists should expect lane closures in both the northbound and southbound directions from 23rd Avenue W to 39th Street E for sign installation.

Motorists are encouraged to use caution, follow posted signage, and allow additional travel time through the work zone.

15th Street E (S.R. 70 Spur) from 30th Avenue E to 26th Avenue E: Construction project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is milling and resurfacing 15th Street E (S.R. 70 Spur) from 30th Avenue E to 26th Avenue E in Manatee County. This safety project's improvements also include installation of new sidewalk and existing sidewalk repairs, drainage work, lighting, signalization, signage and new pavement markings on approximately .25 miles.

• Motorists can expect intermittent daytime and nighttime lane closures throughout the project limits.

• Please be aware there may be uneven areas of pavement while work is underway.

• Pedestrians can expect detours where sidewalks are being repaired or replaced.

• Please follow signage and watch for workers in and near the roadway during daytime and nighttime hours.

• The estimated completion is in the fall of 2026.

10th Street West at 5th Avenue West: Railway maintenance project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will have temporary overnight single-lane closures at the railroad crossing while crews conduct maintenance upgrades to the railroad dynamic envelope (RDE) markings. Upgrades will require intermittent closure of one lane at a time from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. through September 24, weather permitting.

SARASOTA COUNTY

I-75 at SR 780/Fruitville Road Interchange (Exit 210): Construction project: Project will: reconstruct the interchange to a diverging diamond interchange; widen about two miles of I-75, from Palmer Boulevard to north of Fruitville Road, to a six-lane highway with three through lanes per direction; reconstruct or widen I-75 bridges over Fruitville Road, over Palmer Boulevard, and Main A Canal; widen Fruitville Road from Honore Avenue to east of Coburn Road; install seven-foot buffered bike lanes and six-foot sidewalks on Fruitville Road; replace traffic signals and lighting on Fruitville Road; and construct a noise wall on I-75 northbound from Bee Ridge Road on-ramp to just north of Main A Canal. This week, crews will work on the interchange ramps, drainage, and the I-75 bridges over Main A Canal and Palmer Boulevard.

• Motorists should anticipate I-75 single-lane closures during the overnight hours from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. during the duration of the construction.

• Motorists should anticipate I-75 double-lane closures during the overnight hours from 11:30 p.m. to 4:30 a.m. during the duration of the construction.

• Motorists should anticipate I-75 ramp closures during the overnight hours from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. during the duration of the construction.

• Motorists should anticipate I-75 lane shifts during the duration of construction.

• Motorists should anticipate Fruitville Road single lane closures during the overnight hours from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. during the duration of the construction.

• Motorists should anticipate Fruitville Road double-lane closures during the overnight hours from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. throughout the duration of the construction.

• Motorists should anticipate Fruitville Road lane shifts during the duration of construction.

• Drivers should exercise caution and be aware of construction vehicles entering and exiting the interstate through the duration of the construction.

Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway. Estimated completion is late 2029.

I-75 at Toledo Blade Boulevard (exit 179) and Sumter Boulevard (exit 182) Interchange Improvements: FDOT is making improvements to the I-75 at ToledoBladeBoulevardand I-75at Sumter Boulevard interchanges. Improvements for both interchanges include the installation of signals at both ramp connections, controlled pedestrian crosswalks, intersection lighting, and the addition of northbound I-75 free flow on-ramps from southbound Toledo Blade Boulevard and from southbound Sumter Boulevard. In addition, northbound lanes will be widened to provide two full lanes through the Toledo Blade Boulevard interchange. At the Sumter Boulevard interchange, dual left turn lanes will be added from northbound Sumter Boulevard onto northbound I-75.

The following activities are subject to change based on weather conditions and unforeseen underground conditions.

Sumter Boulevard Interchange:

• Crews will be working on excavation and groundwork.

Toledo Blade Boulevard Interchange:

• Crews will be working on excavation and groundwork.

Lane/ramp closure restrictions:

• When necessary, motorists should anticipate lane closures on the I-75 ramps between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. and full ramp closures between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Single-lane closures on Sumter Boulevard and Toledo Blade Boulevard can be expected from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. as well as 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., and double lane closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. As major closures are added to the schedule, more information will be included in the weekly update.

Please use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and leaving the roadway. The expected completion date is early 2027. For more information please visit: https://www.swflroads.com/project/452356-1.

I-75 and Clark Rd: Landscape project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will be installing landscaping and associated irrigation within the interchange through late fall. Motorists can expect occasional shoulder closures on Clark Road and I-75 ramps as tree and plant material are being offloaded (no landscaping to be installed on the interstate).

• Watch for trucks and landscaping equipment entering and exiting throughout the project limits.

• Be prepared for intermittent shoulder closures.

• Please use caution in the area.

I-75 South of the University Parkway Exit: Maintenance project: FDOT will be conducting intermittent lane closures on the southbound right two lanes as they replace Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) on I-75 south of the University Parkway exit from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. on September 28-30. Watch for workers and lane closures/lane shifts during the operation.

I-75 South of the Bee Ridge Road Exit: Maintenance project: FDOT will be conducting intermittent lane closures on the southbound right two lanes as they replace Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) on I-75 south of the Bee Ridge Road exit from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. on September 28-30. Watch for workers and lane closures/lane shifts during the operation.

Districtwide Movable Bridges (Sarasota County): Construction Project: The Florida Department of Transportation is installing Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) at various locations in Sarasota County. The following bridges began construction in March 2025:

U.S. 41 Business Intracoastal Waterway Bridge (Circus),
U.S. 41 Business Hatchett Creek/Intracoastal Waterway Bridge (KMI),
S.R. 758 Sarasota Bay Bridge (Siesta Key),
S.R. 72 Intracoastal Waterway Bridge (Stickney Point), and
S.R. 789 New Pass Bridge (New Pass)

• This project includes the installation of pedestrian/bicycle detection systems, conduits and electrical components, and connection to bridge tender buildings.

• Testing began in early February 2026.

• Motorists are advised that there will be intermittent sidewalk and lane closures throughout the duration of construction.

• Motorists should expect lane closures during the nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.

• Motorists are advised to use caution in the construction zone.

Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway.

Sarasota Bay Drawbridge No. 170061 (North Bridge) on County Road 758/Siesta Drive: Construction project: The Florida Department of Transportation has begun normal bridge rehabilitation work to minimize the effects of the aggressive marine environment. This bridge project consists of concrete maintenance, rehabilitation of existing mechanical and electrical systems, and structural steel work and steel coating replacement.

• Overnight lane closures are expected through the end of October, from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. as crews work on the concrete bridge deck and apply epoxy overlay protection. Nighttime work will also include repairs to the existing piling protection. Crews will work on one lane at a time, alternating sides. (Dates and times may change depending on weather or work schedules.)

• Crews are currently not scheduled to work on weekends.

• Motorists may wish to use the South/ Stickney Point Bridge or allow for additional travel time.

• Flaggers, barrels and warning signs will be present to help guide motorists through the construction zone.

• Pedestrians and bicyclists will be escorted through the work zone.

• Local residents closest to the bridge should anticipate noise and lights from construction equipment.

• Work will continue underneath the bridge span, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Pedestrians and bicyclists will continue to have access.

• MARINE TRAFFIC: During the daytime hours, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., single-leaf openings will commence to accommodate electrical work from August 10 through October 16. Overnight, bridge openings through September 8 will continue to be reduced to four (4) per night to accommodate the curing period needed for cement. A four-hour notice is required for full daytime openings during this period and for evening bridge openings.

• Expected completion remains late 2026.

U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) from Bee Ridge Road to Glengary Street: Permit project: There will be an intermittent northbound/southbound outside for lane closure on U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) from Bee Ridge Road to Glengary Street, from the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through September. The contractor is installing underground conduit. Please use caution and watch for lane shifts and construction workers.

U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) from Bay Street to McIntosh Road: Permit project: There will be an intermittent northbound/southbound inside and outside lane closure on U.S. 41 from Bay Street to McIntosh Road through November 20 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A contractor will be performing median landscaping improvements. Please watch for lane shifts and workers in and around the work zone.

U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) from Floyd Street to Waldemere Street: Permit project: There will be an intermittent southbound outside lane closure on U.S. 41 from Floyd Street to Waldemere Street through the end of September from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A contractor will be removing two existing driveways and restoring curb, gutter and sidewalks at both locations. Please watch for lane closures and workers in and around the work zone.

U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) from Martin Luther King Jr. Way to Bayshore Road: Permit project: The City of Sarasota is continuing Phases 5-7 on its Watermain Replacement project: There will be an alternating intermittent north and southbound inside and outside lane closure on U.S. 41 from Martin Luther King Jr. Way to Bayshore Road during the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additionally, motorists can expect road closures at the Ringling Plaza intersection with detours from September 23-28. Occasional intermittent nighttime work may be required throughout the project with an estimated completion in September 2027. Please look for lane shifts and construction workers.

U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) from North of Macewen Drive/Osprey Point Drive to South of Preymore Street: Permit project: There will be an intermittent southbound outside lane closure on U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) from north of Macewen Drive/Osprey Point Drive to south of Preymore Street to be completed in September. FPL crews will be installing conduit lines from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch for possible lane shifts and workers in or close to the travel lanes and be prepared to slow down.

S.R. 789 from Bird Key Drive to Sunset Drive: Construction project: This project includes the addition of dedicated bicycle and transit lanes on the bridge, drainage upgrades, and raising the seawall cap near Sunset Drive. Other project activities include resurfacing the roadway throughout the project corridor and the installation of new traffic signals at the intersections of Sunset Drive, Golden Gate Drive, and Bird Key Drive. The project also includes relocating palm trees and small shrubs from their current locations on the eastern area of the John Ringling Causeway to medians closer to St. Armands Circle.

Sunset Drive will be temporarily closed at the Ritz entrance off Gulfstream Avenue (S.R. 789) to accommodate driveway reconstruction and related roadway improvements. The closure is anticipated to remain in place for approximately 60 days. Please follow posted detours, traffic-control devices, and directions from construction personnel.

This week's work will consist of:

• Delivery of machinery and materials.

• Roadway widening.

• Concrete curb and sidewalk installation.

• Drainage placement.

• Median barrier wall installation.

• Light pole installation.

Pedestrians should use designated paths and follow posted detour signs. Bike lanes are closed due to construction. Cyclists should follow the posted detour.

Lane closures will be in place during various phases of the project. Construction will primarily take place during daytime hours, with occasional nighttime work. Expect nighttime noise from backup alarms, construction equipment, pumps and power tools during daytime and nighttime operations. Drivers are urged to use caution and watch for workers, construction vehicles, pickup trucks, and equipment entering or exiting the travel lanes.

During construction, the speed limit on Gulfstream Avenue and John Ringling Causeway/S.R. 789 will remain 35 mph. Speeding fines are doubled in the construction zone when workers are present. Motorists are urged to drive cautiously and watch for workers, construction vehicles, pickup trucks, and other equipment entering or exiting travel lanes.

The estimated completion date for construction is early 2027.

S.R. 777 River Road from I-75 to U.S. 41: Construction project: Maintenance and erosion control work are ongoing. Trucks will be crossing the road at various locations using intermittent flagging operations. Pothole maintenance will continue as necessary on all current travel ways through the project. Crews will conduct nighttime thermoplastic installation within the project limits. Please use caution and follow all road work and regulatory signs when traveling through the project.

S.R. 776 from W Riverview Avenue to Hosmer Avenue: Permit project: There will be an intermittent northbound outside lane closure from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. as Sarasota County's contractor installs/replaces five wood poles with concrete poles along S.R. 776. Please watch for lane closures and workers in the area.

S.R. 776 from Charlotte County Line to South of U.S. 41: Construction project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will begin milling and resurfacing State Road (S.R.) 776 from the Charlotte County line to south of U.S. 41. FDOT will also begin a median modification project on S.R. 776 from the Charlotte County line to Tangerine Woods Boulevard. While individual project schedules will vary, the combined contract begins in mid-2026 and spans just over eight miles. FDOT will provide weekly RoadWatch updates via the project website.

• Motorists can expect overnight lane closures within the project limits for milling and paving operations on S.R. 776. Stay alert for traffic shifts and lane merges during the construction.

• Motorists can expect intermittent lane closures/lane shifts as bicycle lane separators are installed on northbound and southbound S.R. 776 south of Dearborn Street.

• Motorists can expect intermittent daytime lane closures as crews prepare and install median modifications in the center lanes. Please watch for workers and lane shifts during this operation.

• To keep the road open during construction, motorists can expect crews to work one lane at a time. This may cause uneven pavement on sections of roadway.

• Crews and equipment may be present within the project limits during daytime/nighttime hours. Sounds from construction equipment and vehicles can be expected.

• Please use caution when traveling through active construction zones and follow posted speed limits.

• Estimated project completion is in summer 2027.

S.R. 758 (Bee Ridge Road) East of U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) to Freedom Avenue: Permit project: Motorists can expect intermittent outside eastbound lane closures on S.R. 758 (Bee Ridge Road) east of U.S. 41 (S.R. 45) to Freedom Avenue from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. through the end of September as FPL installs overhead utilities. Please watch for crews and lane shifts during the operation.

S.R. 72 (Clark Road) from Rockefeller Avenue to Westwind Lane: Permit project: There will be intermittent alternating side-street road closures with temporary detours through the end of September from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for utility work. Work will start at Clark Road and Nelson Avenue, and once completed work will move on to Clark Road and Rockefeller. Please watch for detour signs and be aware of workers in or near the travel lanes during the utility operation.

S.R. 72 (Clark Road) between Honore Avenue and McIntosh Road: Maintenance project: Motorists can expect intermittent east and westbound lane closures on S.R. 72 (Clark Road) between Honore Avenue and McIntosh Road through the end of September from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. Crews will be conducting asphalt paving in the area. Please use caution, follow signage and watch for workers close to the travel lanes.

S.R. 72 (Clark Road) from U.S. 41 (S.R .45) to East of Derek Avenue: Construction project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will begin milling and resurfacing Clark Road/S.R. 72 from U.S. 41/S.R. 45 to East of Derek Avenue in late summer. Improvements include median modifications, lighting, signalization, drainage, curb and gutter and sidewalk improvements within the project limits. Additional work will include a mid-block pedestrian crossing to enhance pedestrian safety. The project spans just over 3.83 miles with an estimated completion of late 2027.

• Motorists can expect a new traffic pattern on Clark Road from Swift Road to Sawyer Road which closes the center lanes.

• Motorists can expect nighttime lane closures/lane shifts throughout the project limits.

• Motorists may experience uneven lanes within the project limits during construction.

• Pedestrians may experience detours while sidewalks are under construction.

• Speed limits will be reduced to 35 MPH.

• Please watch for workers and use caution when navigating an active construction zone.

• Estimated completion is late 2027.

Sarasota County Bridge Nos 170089, 170090, 170091, 170092, 170093, 170094, 170095, 170096, 170101, 170102, 170108, 170177, 170110, 170178, 170111, and 170112 located along I-75 in Sarasota County, Florida. Testing project: A contamination contractor is conducting single lane closures along I-75 on several bridges in Sarasota County to test for asbestos and metal-based coatings. Motorists can expect single lane closures from October 4 to October 9 from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. on bridge nos. 170089, 170090, 170091, 170092, 170093, 170094, 170095, 170096, 170101, 170102, 170108, 170177, 170110, 170178, 170111, and 170112.