TAMPA, Fla. — Drivers traveling through downtown Tampa should prepare for major overnight detours as crews will close all westbound lanes of Interstate 4 at the I-275 interchange.

According to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the closure will begin at 10 p.m. Wednesday night and is expected to reopen by Thursday morning.

The closure will allow crews to safely install large overhead signs as part of the Downtown Tampa Interchange Safety and Operational Improvements Project.

FDOT officials say installing the signs requires a full closure of westbound I-4.

Detours Through Downtown Tampa

The closure will impact drivers attempting to access I-275 northbound and southbound from I-4. During the shutdown, motorists will be routed off the interstate and through downtown Tampa using the Selmon Connector.

Drivers are urged to follow posted detour signs and allow extra travel time.

FDOT spokesperson Kris Carson acknowledged the inconvenience but said the work marks one of the final major steps before improvements begin to benefit drivers.

“After this big major detour, we have some ramps that will be opening in the next few weeks, so there are some things that will be alleviated very soon,” Carson said.

🚧 Westbound I-4 Closure 🚧

A temporary closure of all westbound I-4 travel lanes through the Downtown Tampa Interchange (I-4/I-275) will occur from 10 p.m., Wednesday, January 7, to 5 a.m., Thursday, January 8, weather permitting.

For more information: https://t.co/JuSGHx22Q7. pic.twitter.com/ScAfggS9Tx

— FDOT West Central – Tampa Area (@MyFDOT_Tampa) January 5, 2026

FDOT is reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert while traveling through the construction zone, especially overnight when closures may catch some motorists off guard.

Officials also say this may not be the last disruption. While the current closure is temporary, sporadic overnight impacts could continue at various times into 2026 as construction progresses. The entire interchange improvement project is currently scheduled for completion in 2027.

Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and check traffic conditions before heading out.