A Florida Department of Transportation project that promises to help reduce the traffic stress along a busy stretch in Collier County is hitting its next stages.
Officially called the I-75 at SR 951 (exit 101) Interchange Improvements by FDOT, the project is highlighted by the construction of direct flyover ramp from northbound Collier Boulevard starting south of the Davis Boulevard intersection. This single-lane flyover ramp will carry traffic over Beck Boulevard and a reconstructed I-75 southbound on-ramp.
The $97 million project launched in early 2023 and is schedule to be completed around this time next year.
The most recent FDOT update on the project, released on June 26, said crews were working on a bridge deck pour, which resulted in Beck Boulevard temporarily closing at Collier Boulevard (SR/CR 951) on June 29 and June 30.
To accommodate access during the closures, a temporary roadway connection was constructed just north of Beck Boulevard at Tollhouse Drive.
Collier County I-75 flyover project
Going forward, motorists should continue to expect:
Pine Ridge and I-75: Diverging Diamond Interchange
The work on Collier’s first ever Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) at I-75 and Pine Ridge Road started in March. Things are picking up. Driving through that area recently it was clear more big things are to come soon.
What does FDOT have to say about this project? According to the weekly press release:
During the week of Sunday, June 29, motorists should expect nighttime/overnight lane closures on Pine Ridge Road from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. and on the southbound off ramp from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. for crews to install drainage and complete signal work.
Also:
The interchange improvements include reconstruction of the Pine Ridge Road Interchange converting to a Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) design, reconstruction of the interchange on and off ramps, construction of pedestrian and bicycle accommodations through the interchange, installation of new signals at the ramps, and resurfacing of Pine Ridge Road through the project area.
What is a Diverging Diamond Interchange?
A diverging diamond interchange (DDI) aims to improve traffic flow and safety at highway interchanges by temporarily switching traffic to the opposite side of the road, eliminating the need for left turns against oncoming traffic and reducing the number of traffic signal phases. This design allows for more efficient traffic movement, especially for high-volume left-turn movements, and can also enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety.
A DDI was completed in June in Fort Myers (Lee County). Another one is planned for Lee County at the I-75 and Daniels Parkway interchange.
SWFL traffic: What’s on your mind?
Your emails are pouring into my inbox and I love it. Keep them coming. Remember, it’s OK to vent and tell me what is driving you crazy when it comes to our traffic crisis. Of course, your observations and ideas for helping to solve the crisis are always welcome!
Email anytime to mbickel@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Marco Eagle: I-75: Updates on Collier Boulevard flyover, Pine Ridge Road diverging diamond
Reporting by Mark H. Bickel and Jonah Hinebaugh, Naples Daily News / Marco Eagle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
