Road construction at the Pine Ridge Road interchange is bringing a mix of confusion and optimism to drivers in the area. Crews are currently working throughout the area as preparations are underway for significant changes starting Monday.
The Florida Department of Transportation announced that, starting Monday at 8 p.m. and continuing until 6 a.m., drivers can expect rolling ramp closures on I-75. This is part of a $27 million project to build a diverging diamond interchange.
The design, similar to one at Colonial Boulevard and I-75 in Lee County, temporarily flips traffic to the left side of the road to improve turning movements and reduce crash points.
Drivers, like Jan Drummond, are preparing for potential delays.
“Pine Ridge is a parking lot during season,” said Drummond. “It’s got to relieve the congestion. I’m looking forward to the end of it, but I drove home in the dark the other night, and getting on I-75 from Pine Ridge was pretty scary.”
FDOT expects the project to be completed in two years. Travelers should prepare for delays and pack their patience when driving near this area.