PROJECT DESCRIPTION

      The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will be improving 1.4 miles of State Road (S.R.) 44 (South Street), from West Main Street to west of Taffy Lane in Leesburg. The goal is to enhance operations and safety for drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists. Proposed improvements include repaving S.R. 44, installing 5-foot bike lanes from West Main Street to Caballo Road, upgrading existing bus stop facilities, and updating curb ramps to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. 

      To help encourage safer driving speeds, the project will add intermittent raised islands in the median. These islands are a safety feature designed to encourage drivers to be more aware of their surroundings and will not limit access to side streets or driveways along the roadway. They also serve to increase visibility and create physical separation between lanes of oncoming traffic.

      The project will include additional signs to help drivers better anticipate the curve in the roadway and adjust vehicle speeds accordingly.  There will also be a signalization upgrade at S.R. 44/West Main Street intersection. Obsolete driveways along the corridor will also be removed. These planned operational and safety improvements are part of a larger initiative to help meet FDOT’s vision of providing safer roadways for all users.

WHAT TO EXPECT

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

         Uneven pavement is a common condition with projects that require temporary asphalt or resurfacing, as the contractor must place several layers of asphalt over the course of construction. Motorists should reduce speed, heed posted signage and remain alert throughout the work zone. The construction schedule is subject to change due to weather or unexpected circumstances.