Additional Testing Scheduled for Roadway Depressions on U.S. 17

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) continues to investigate multiple roadway depressions in the southbound lanes of U.S. 17 between Cypress Gardens Boulevard (S.R. 540) and the overpass bridge.

Four depressions have been identified along this stretch of roadway. The most severe occurred in the middle of the U.S. 17 and Cypress Gardens Boulevard intersection, prompting a full overnight closure on March 22. During that emergency response, crews found that a 60-inch drainage pipe located approximately 12 feet beneath the roadway surface had a gap in one of the joints. Temporary repairs were completed to stabilize both the pipe and the roadway.

The remaining three depressions are located directly above the same drainage pipe, so pipe video inspections will be conducted to evaluate the condition of the pipe and determine the severity of any leakage within the system.

Since the initial repairs, ground penetrating radar has been used to evaluate subsurface conditions and detect potential underground voids. As part of the next phase of the investigation, crews will conduct material borings near the affected areas to further assess roadway integrity and determine whether additional underground concerns exist. This work is expected to take place over two nights, Wednesday, April 1 and Thursday, April 2. Once all data has been collected and analyzed, FDOT will develop a comprehensive repair plan and retain a contractor to complete the necessary repairs.

In the meantime, FDOT and the City of Winter Haven will continue to closely monitor the area.

Motorists should expect a single southbound lane closure on U.S. 17 from north of Cypress Gardens Boulevard to the overpass bridge and double westbound left turn lane closures from Cypress Gardens Boulevard to southbound U.S. 17 from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. during the testing period. Use caution and be prepared to merge. 

For real-time traffic updates, visit https://fl511.com/.

Photos to follow. Please check your email from FDOT.

###

SWFLRoads.com | X: @MyFDOT_SWFL | Facebook: @MyFDOTSWFL

The Florida Department of Transportation’s mission is to provide a safe statewide transportation system that promotes the efficient movement of people and goods, supports the state’s economic competitiveness, prioritizes Florida’s environment and natural resources, and preserves the quality of life and connectedness of the state’s communities.