S.R. 70 from Lorraine Road to Bourneside Boulevard: Construction project: This project includes widening S.R. 70 from Lorraine Road to Bourneside Boulevard from a two-lane undivided roadway to a four-lane or six-lane divided roadway, depending on the location, construction of roundabouts on S.R. 70 at Uihlein Road, Del Webb Boulevard, and Bourneside Boulevard, intersection improvements at the existing signalized intersection of Greenbrook Boulevard and Lorraine Road, construction of four bridges over two Braden River crossing locations, new drainage system, construction of 10-foot shared use paths, street lighting, and landscaping, and installation of new fiber optic cable connecting the two signalized intersections to Manatee County’s regional Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS).
Recently, bicyclists and pedestrians have been observed entering the work zone and using shared-use paths within the project limits. Although these areas may appear finished, construction activities are still ongoing. These areas are not open to the public and may contain open excavations, fresh asphalt, or uncured concrete, posing significant safety hazards to anyone not affiliated with the project. These roadways and shared-use paths within the work zone are clearly marked as closed with signage. Additionally, vehicles have been observed driving through closed side streets while workers are present, creating a serious risk of injury or accident.
This week’s work will consist of:
· Reconstruction of S.R. 70 at Garnet Trail, including paving and pavement markings.
· Construction of curb pad and curb along S.R. 70 between Uihlein Road and Garnet Trail.
· Excavation of the pond on the north side of S.R. 70, west of Uihlein Road.
· Grading of the approach slabs for the easternmost S.R. 70 westbound bridge.
· Installation of waterline and drainage pipe on the north side of S.R. 70 between Lorraine Road and Post Boulevard.
· Installation of light poles and lighting conduit on the north side of S.R. 70.
· Grading, stabilization, and placement of base material for the future westbound S.R. 70 roadway between Uihlein Road and Garnet Trail..
Garnet Trail at S.R. 70 is closed for four weeks, weather permitting, while crews construct the roadway connection and side street. A detour is in place, directing traffic to Garnet Trail via Post Boulevard. Garnet Trail is scheduled to reopen September 4, weather permitting.
The estimated completion date for construction is summer 2027.