LAKELAND, FL — Periodic lane closures and flagging operations are scheduled along U.S. 98 between W. Socrum Loop Road and County Road 54 from Monday, April 13 through Friday, April 17. Work will occur daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The closures are part of an ongoing design-build project to widen U.S. 98 from a two-lane undivided roadway to a four-lane divided highway. The project extends from W. Socrum Loop Road, also known as Hall Road, to the Pasco County line just south of County Road 54. The contractor is responsible for completing final design plans and constructing the improvements. The design phase is nearing completion.
Construction began January 3, 2024, with early work including clearing and erosion control already completed following plan approvals.
Planned improvements include construction of two roundabouts at Big Cypress Boulevard and State Road 471, as well as shared-use paths on both sides of the roadway from W. Socrum Loop Road to just north of Rock Ridge Road. Additional upgrades include drainage improvements, wildlife crossings beneath the roadway, and pedestrian crosswalks at Rock Ridge Road and Big Cypress Boulevard.
For safety, the speed limit in the construction zone has been reduced to 45 mph and will remain in effect throughout the project. Drivers are reminded that fines are doubled for speeding in active construction zones.
SOURCE: FDOT
