FDOT District One is evaluated intersection improvements, including roundabouts, at the two existing signalized intersections along the US 41 corridor at Dr. MLK Jr. Way and Myrtle Street and developed bike/pedestrian design alternatives along US 41. The intersection improvements will complement those planned for other intersections along US 41 to improve traffic flow throughout the corridor, including operational performance at the intersections, as intersections work best in a series. The primary goal of the US 41 improvements is to improve multi-modal accessibility along the corridor, provide a safe, convenient and attractive crossing for pedestrian and bicyclists and improve connectivity and circulation between the greater Downtown Sarasota area and the Bayfront area.

Design alternatives were evaluated during the PD&E study to determine the design best suited to improve connectivity and circulation, while providing a safe and convenient crossing for pedestrians and bicyclists. The project is listed as a priority in the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (MPO’s) 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) and the Sarasota/Manatee MPO’s Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP).