Virtual information session set for $145M project to bring improvements to I-75
The Florida Department of Transportation announced it will host a virtual pre-construction question-and-answer session for the Interstate 75/U.S. 301 interchange project from 5-6 p.m. Thursday, just ahead of the start of construction Monday.
The project would be the most expensive of any in Manatee County, costing an estimated $145 million with completion expected in late 2024. The contractor is Ajax Industries of Florida.
The purpose of this meeting is to provide the public with construction information and answer questions about the project.
The meeting will be held online and will be accessible through the project website at www.swflroads.com/i75/us301/ .
Plans include widening of I-75, reconfiguration of the I-75/U.S. 301 interchange from a partial cloverleaf interchange to a tight diamond configuration, and the construction of new bridges over the Manatee River for a northbound exit ramp and a southbound entrance ramp.
The widening and reconstruction of I-75 would provide for an eight-lane divided roadway with 12-foot inside and outside shoulders (10-foot paved) and a median that varies from 64 feet to 161 feet.
This improvement project would enhance access to I-75, as well as improve safety, increases capacity and facilitate emergency evacuation within the county.
In addition, the improvements would help serve travel demands created by anticipated countywide population and employment growth.
The new interchange would simplify entering and leaving the intersection near Ellenton Premium Outlets and the Florida International Trade Port. It is designed to handle traffic well beyond 2050.
To attend the online question-and-answer session, visit the project website anytime between 5-6 p.m. Thursday. Project information will be available on the website.
All attendees will be muted, and questions can be entered through the chat function. Information session displays will remain posted on the project website following the session.
For more project information, contact Brian Bollas at 813- 262-8499 or via e-mail Brian.Bollas@dot.state.fl.us.
This story was originally published October 12, 2021 at 6:00 AM.
