This Design Build project for FDOT District One on SR 35 (US 98), from north of Socrum Loop Road to south of CR 54, spans 8.7 miles. The project aims to reconstruct the existing two-lane, two-way facility into a four-lane divided roadway with suburban and rural characteristics.
Key components of the project include:
- Addition of two multilane roundabouts at Big Cypress Boulevard and SR 471
- Construction of a signalized intersection at US 98 and Rock Ridge Road
- Development of shared-use paths, wildlife features, U-turn loons, bridge culverts, and multiple stormwater management facilities
Several innovative aspects were incorporated to enhance the quality of the final product and improve construction efficiencies. B&N’s stormwater management approach modified the permitted water treatment methodology to use the presumptive method, leading to reduced pipe sizes, a surplus in water quality treatment, and additional attenuation.
Furthermore, B&N addressed the removal of a significant amount of organic soils by designing floodplain compensation sites that involved over-excavation, allowing for the disposal of unsuitable organic soils.
From a construction perspective, the temporary maintenance of traffic design was also innovative, improving operations during construction and emphasizing work zone safety. This included the use of Smart Work Zones that provide dynamic messages based on congestion within the project limits. Additionally, the early implementation of the proposed roundabouts allowed for the realization of safety and operational benefits earlier in the construction process.