The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will begin construction on State Road 33 (Lakeland Hills Boulevard) starting October 7, 2024. This complete street project includes total reconstruction of the roadway and drainage system along Lakeland Hills Boulevard from Parkview Place south to East Griffin Road. The $27.6 Million project is estimated to take 650 days, slated for a late 2026 completion.
During construction, Lakeland Hills Boulevard will be reduced to one lane in each direction with limited left turns only taking place at signalized intersections. Because of the expansive underground work and limited right-of-way, the lanes will be 10-foot wide, and U-turns will not be possible for most vehicles. At times, it will be necessary to close side street entrances during the various phase of work. There will be local traffic and pedestrian detours in place during construction.
Project improvements
- Storm drain system will be replaced for improved drainage
- Roadway will be completely reconstructed and resurfaced
- A 12-foot raised median will be added from Parkview Place to north of Miami Street
- Existing driveways will be modified to meet current standards
- A mid-block pedestrian crossing will be installed at Channing Road
- Existing 5-foot-wide sidewalks will be replaced with 8-foot-wide sidewalks
- A mid-block pedestrian crossing will be installed at Swannanoa Street
- All pedestrian crossings, sidewalks and signals will meet ADA standards
- Upgraded lighting will be installed at signalized intersections
- Street lighting will be replaced and upgraded
- Traffic signals will be upgraded to LED
Although Lakeland Hills Boulevard will remain open throughout construction, motorists may want to consider alternate routes such as US 98/Florida Avenue and West Lake Parker Drive. Citrus Connection currently services the Lakeland Hills Boulevard area via the Pink Line but will establish micro-transit routes starting October 21, 2024. For more information on Citrus Connection Routes, please visit https://ridecitrus.com/. Construction will have Lakeland Hills Boulevard reduced to one lane of traffic in each direction and left turns will only be available at signalized intersections. Message boards are currently in place along the construction zone notifying drivers about the upcoming project. For more information and project updates visit www.swflroads.com/project440444-1.
Someone better get started four-laning Ewell and Shepherd all the way to County Line Road. At the rate the Pipkin project is moving along, it might take decades.