by Tamas Mondovics
It is safe to say that when it comes to traffic improvements there is no shortage of trouble spots throughout Hillsborough County. Aside from some of the roadway improvements and intersection projects in Valrico, such as the much-needed culvert and drainage upgrade just south of Valrico Road and State Road 60 intersection, County officials have scheduled two new intersection traffic signal installation projects south of East Lumsden Road.
To improve safety, motorists will soon see the installation of the first new traffic signal at the intersection of Durant and Valrico roads. The $590,000 project was scheduled to begin this month, including construction of enhanced pedestrian features and drainage improvements at the intersection.
The second new traffic signal and improvement project at the intersection of Bryan and Brooker roads near Burns Middle School is to begin once the school year ends. The project cost is $565,000.
County officials are confident that upon completion, both traffic signal installations and intersection enhancements will improve safety and operations for motorists and pedestrians. The Durant and Valrico intersection project and the Bryan and Brooker Intersection project are both funded through the Public Works Capital Transportation Program. All installations and improvements at both sites are expected to be completed in approximately eight months.
Construction work for both projects is expected to take place on weekdays between 8 a.m.-5 p.m., but officials are promising the work will generate only standard construction noise. While temporary traffic lane closures may be necessary and traffic delays may occur, access to businesses will be maintained throughout construction.Drivers are cautioned to observe all traffic control measures for the safety of workers, pedestrians, and other motorists.
Additional roadway and intersection improvement projects that are currently testing residents and motorists’ patience in and around Valrico include the Bloomingdale Avenue and Culbreath Road intersection. Although a bit later than expected, the $1.4 million project began earlier this year with an expected competition sometime later this summer.
For more information on the above projects, visit www.HillsboroughCounty.org/CountyProjects, under the Transportation Projects link.
