Crews are finalizing construction on a significant project in Pinellas County, Florida, aimed at mitigating commute times. The Gateway Expressway Lanes are scheduled to open on Friday, bringing relief to the county’s traffic congestion.
This $595 million project includes the first express lanes in Pinellas County, offering a dedicated toll road for commuters between Interstate 275, US-19, and the Bayside Bridge. In addition, the project entails widening Interstate 275 and establishing an express lane in each direction from Gandy Boulevard to 4th Street North.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) emphasizes the project’s significance in accommodating the influx of new residents to the area. “This project will significantly improve traffic flow by providing drivers with the option of using tolled lanes, eliminating signals and ensuring smooth access to US-19 and I-275,” explained Greg Deese, an FDOT engineer. “Furthermore, drivers can utilize 118th Street for local business access, which will also benefit from the enhanced traffic capacity created by the overhead toll road.”
The new Gateway Expressway Lanes will open to the public on Friday, offering commuters a more efficient and time-saving travel experience.