PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is improving 1.4 miles of State Road (S.R.) 44 (South Street) from West Main Street to west of Taffy Lane in Leesburg. The project aims to enhance operations and safety for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists.

Planned improvements include repaving S.R. 44, installing 5-foot-wide bike lanes from West Main Street to Caballo Road, upgrading bus stop facilities, and updating curb ramps to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. Intermittent raised islands will be added to the median to encourage safer driving speeds.

This will enhance safety by increasing driver awareness and improving visibility while maintaining access to side streets and driveways. The islands will also create physical separation between lanes of oncoming traffic, reducing the risk of head-on collisions. Additional signage will be installed to help drivers anticipate curves in the roadway and adjust speeds accordingly.

The project also includes upgrading the traffic signals at the S.R. 44/West Main Street intersection and removing obsolete driveways along the corridor. These operational and safety improvements are part of a larger initiative to support FDOT’s vision of providing safer roadways for all users.

WHAT TO EXPECT

During construction, motorists should expect periodic daytime and/or overnight lane closures and possible detours. Electronic message boards and other signage will direct traffic through the work zone.

Uneven pavement is a common condition in resurfacing projects, as multiple layers of asphalt must be placed throughout construction. Motorists should reduce speed, follow posted signage, and remain alert when traveling in the work zone.

The construction schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances.