PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is implementing operational improvements on U.S. 441 (State Road (S.R.) 44/S.R. 500/East Main Street/North Boulevard) from Mills Street to College Drive in Leesburg.

The project will resurface all travel lanes, shoulders, and side street turnouts within the project limits. Other planned improvements include:

• Upgrades to traffic signals and improved lighting for pedestrian safety at the intersections of U.S. 441 and S.R. 44 (East Dixie Avenue) and U.S. 441 and County Road (C.R.) 44.

• Construction of a 6-foot-wide sidewalk to fill gaps from Mills Street to S.R. 44, providing sidewalk connectivity.

• Extension of the dual left turn lanes at U.S. 441 and S.R. 44, and closure of the existing directional median at Nichols Drive. • Addition of a dedicated right-turn lane at the RaceTrac gas station to improve traffic flow.

• Extension of the left turn lane to North Lake Avenue for better traffic flow and enhanced safety. In addition, curbs and curb ramps at all side streets will be upgraded to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, and landscaping enhancements will be provided along the corridor.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Residents and motorists should expect daytime and overnight single-lane closures, as well as overnight double-lane closures from 7 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. Motorists should also anticipate areas of uneven pavement within the project limits, a common condition during construction when the contractor applies multiple asphalt layers in phases.

These roadway conditions are temporary and will improve gradually as the project progresses. While in a work zone, motorists are strongly encouraged to exercise caution and reduce speed to ensure the safety of everyone on the roadway. The project timeline is subject to change and may be adjusted due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances.