TEMPORARY CLOSURES ON S.R. 33 AT UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD AND NORTH COMBEE ROAD

LAKELAND, Fla. – The Florida Department of Transportation will incorporate two temporary road closures as part of the ongoing I-4 at S.R. 33 Interchange Improvements and Wildlife Crossings Project. These closures are being implemented to accelerate critical construction activities and help advance the project toward full completion earlier than originally anticipated. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, identify alternate routes, allow for additional travel time, and remain attentive to posted signage and roadway conditions when traveling near the project area. FDOT appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as work continues on this important regional infrastructure improvement.

Temporary closures include:

S.R. 33 at University Boulevard Entrance Closure

• Start Date: June 16, 2026
• Duration: Approximately 60 days (weather and unforeseen conditions permitting)
• Detour Route: Two detour routes will be available: a non-toll detour route and a toll detour route.
  • The non-toll detour uses local roads. Motorists will travel along S.R. 33, take I-4 eastbound, exit onto S.R. 559, then turn onto C. Fred Jones Boulevard, continue to Berkley Road, and then use Pace Road to reconnect to the University Boulevard area. This route creates a loop using nearby roads and avoids the closed intersection.
  • The toll detour provides a quicker option by using I-4 and Polk Parkway (S.R. 570). Motorists can enter I-4 near the interchange, travel a short distance, and exit at S.R. 570 to reconnect with local roads like Pace Road. This option may save time but could include tolls.

S.R 33 at North Combee Road (S.R. 659) Entrance Closure

• Start Date: July 6, 2026
• Duration: Approximately 60 days (weather and unforeseen conditions permitting)
• Detour Route: Motorists will travel along S.R. 33 and then use Old Combee Road to reconnect to the other side of the closure. Old Combee Road runs parallel to the closed section and provides a convenient way around the construction area. For motorists traveling southbound on North Combee Road (S.R. 659), they will be guided south to Old Combee Road, then west on Old Combee Road to S.R. 33. From there, motorists can continue north or south on S.R. 33 to reach their destination. This detour forms a loop around the closure and helps keep traffic moving while maintaining access to nearby homes, businesses, and industrial areas.

Portable Changeable Message Signs and detour signage will be in place to guide motorists through the temporary traffic pattern, and drivers are encouraged to allow extra travel time, follow all posted detours, and use caution when traveling through the construction zone.

FDOT reminds all motorists to slow down, stay alert, and avoid distractions in work zones. Construction schedules may change due to weather or unforeseen conditions.

For more information about the I‑4 at S.R. 33 Interchange Improvements and Wildlife Crossings project, please visit the project website https://www.swflroads.com/project/430185-2.

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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.