FDOT already designing interchange improvements

EAST COUNTY — The Florida Department of Transportation already is advancing with plans to improve the intersection of University Parkway and Interstate 75, where it has committed to build a double diverging diamond-style intersection.

“We’re in design and we’re moving forward,” FDOT District 1 Secretary Billy Hattaway said, noting the project design is 45% complete. “We’re looking for the local governments to commit to making improvements to help reduce congestion in (and around) the interchange.”

Those improvements were spelled out in resolutions passed by Manatee and Sarasota county commissioners Tuesday.

The resolutions express full support for FDOT to fast track funding and expedite the design and construction of the double diverging diamond interchange at I-75 and University Parkway, as well as associated capacity improvements between North Cattlemen Road and Market Street.

The boards also expressed full support for the planning, design and construction of specified regional improvements (see sidebar).

Hattaway said FDOT likely will award a contract for the roughly $60 million project in May, at which time that contractor can start mobilizing for construction, which may begin as early as August 2015.

“We believe we can get this project done in a reasonable timeframe,” Hattaway said. “We may not have all the construction complete before the (2017 World Rowing Championships), but we would not have an impact on it.”

“We do a very good job of maintaining traffic,” he said. “It’s not that there any hiccups. But, by and large, our goal is not to disrupt traffic flow or volumes.”

Part II of the resolution reads:
“The Commission hereby expresses its full support for the planning, design and construction of the following regional capacity improvements:

1. the construction of a bridge over I-75 on the southern boundaries of the Nathan Benderson Park and Schroeder-Manatee Ranch,

2. the extension of Lakewood Ranch Blvd from its current terminus south of University Parkway to Fruitville Road, subject to contractual commitments tied to development approvals,

3. the construction of Lorraine Road between University Parkway and Fruitville Road, subject to contractual commitments tied to development approvals,

4. additional improvements required by, attributable and funded by new development,

5. and additional regional transportation improvements to enhance mobility consistent with and identified in the local governments Comprehensive Plan.”

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].