At the time, it was the largest roundabout in the city, designed to handle semi-tractor trailers and estimated final measurements of 140 feet diagonally across the intersection. It’s a single-lane.
The Florida Department of Transportation has planned a two-lane roundabout at Drane Field and Waring roads. It will consist of two travel lanes ranging from 13 to 17 feet wide, according to FDOT spokesperson David Scarpelli. FDOT’s posted plans call for the roundabout to have a 170-foot diameter as measured from curb to curb.
In addition to the roundabout, FDOT will resurface approximately two miles of pavement on Drane Field Road, from Airport Road east to Pipkin Creek Road. The state will install storm sewers, inlets, closed flumes and manhole covers in an effort to help move storm water away from roadway
Construction of the roundabout is expected to last through spring of 2026, according to Scarpelli, weather permitting. The estimated cost is $14.2 million.
Motorists should expect lane and intersection closures during construction. Additionally, motorists should expect lane shifts during construction.
Construction on the roundabout will be during daytime hours, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and again overnight, from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., Scarpelli said. This indicates work will be paused during morning and evening rush hours.
Do these people who are trying to progress our community understand that these Roundabouts DON’T WORK? People obviously have zero understanding of how they work or are supposed to be used. Either that or the people in Polk County are no longer the type of people who I lived among for the past 40 years. It’s supposed to be that you take your turn and are courteous but I’ve watched these inconsiderate idiots just follow each other through one after the other until there all through the roundabout. No courtesy, no caring, no idea how to drive in one. My biggest concern is with the one on Deen Still Rd and SR33 it’s horrendous trying to get through and I’ve seen Sheriff’s deputies do the same thing and not allow others to get through it. Just spend our money properly and put up Traffic Lights or Four Way Stop 🛑 signs.
I will say this. Some of the Roundabouts around the country that I have seen are multiple lanes into, out of and “around” the roundabout. All of the ones I have seen in Florida are single lanes in, out and around. In The single lane roundabout, I do not allow people to pull out in front of me, nor have I felt it was in any way rude for others to not let me in. I just always thought that’s how they worked.