FDOT shows off plans for S.R. 70, I-75 improvements

Plans for improvements to the intersection of State Road 70 and Interstate 75 took the public spotlight Oct. 19 as the Florida Department of Transportation held a public meeting on the upcoming construction project.

Individuals had a chance to review plans and talk with transportation officials during the event held at Manatee Technical College.

“What they are planning to do at the interchange will improve safety and traffic,” Tara Preserve resident Dave Loskota said.

The project includes reconstruction of the State Road 70 interchange from its existing interchange loop with loop ramps in the northwest and northeast quadrants to a single loop ramp in the northwest quadrant. The project also will expand I-75 to eight lanes, four in each direction. Sections of State Road 70 will be widened with safety enhancements, including sidewalks and buffered bicycle lanes.

Construction is expected to start in summer 2018.