Motorists in Collier County will experience an overnight closure of the northbound I-75 ramp at Pine Ridge Road (Exit 107) from October 1 to October 2. This temporary closure is part of the ongoing I-75 at Pine Ridge Road Interchange Improvements project, which includes the construction of the county's first Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI). The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) advises drivers to use alternate routes during this period.
Key Takeaways
- The northbound I-75 ramp at Pine Ridge Road (Exit 107) will close from 8 p.m. on October 1 to 6 a.m. on October 2.
- The closure is necessary for drainage installation as part of a major interchange improvement project.
- Motorists should use Golden Gate Parkway (Exit 105) as an alternate route.
- Law enforcement will be present to assist with traffic flow during the closure.
- The overall project is expected to finish by mid-2027 and will introduce a Diverging Diamond Interchange.
Scheduled Ramp Closure Details
The specific closure will occur during nighttime hours. It starts at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 1, and is scheduled to reopen by 6 a.m. on Thursday, October 2. This timeframe allows crews to install drainage systems, a critical component of the wider interchange improvement initiative.
This work is part of the early stages of Collier County's first Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) project. The Florida Department of Transportation has indicated that drivers should expect various traffic pattern changes until the project's estimated completion in mid-2027.
"FDOT asks that motorists please use extra caution and follow detour signage or seek alternate routes. Law enforcement will be on-site to assist motorists during the closures," stated a representative from FDOT.
Project Fact
The I-75 at Pine Ridge Road Interchange Improvements project has an estimated completion date of mid-2027.
Recommended Alternate Routes
During the overnight closure of the I-75 northbound ramp at Pine Ridge Road, drivers will need to use alternative exits and roads to reach their destinations. FDOT has provided clear guidance for these detours.
Motorists traveling northbound on I-75 who intend to exit at Pine Ridge Road (Exit 107) should instead use Golden Gate Parkway (Exit 105). From Golden Gate Parkway, drivers can access Pine Ridge Road by turning onto Livingston Road or Santa Barbara Boulevard/Logan Boulevard.
Traffic management personnel, including law enforcement officers, will be stationed in the area to help guide drivers and manage traffic flow effectively. This presence aims to minimize congestion and ensure safety during the closure.
Understanding a Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI)
A Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) is a type of highway interchange designed to improve traffic flow and safety. It temporarily shifts traffic to the opposite side of the road at the intersection, allowing for direct left turns onto the freeway ramps without waiting for oncoming traffic. This design reduces conflict points and can handle higher traffic volumes more efficiently than traditional interchanges.
About the Interchange Improvements Project
The I-75 at Pine Ridge Road Interchange Improvements project is a significant infrastructure undertaking for Collier County. Its primary goal is to enhance traffic efficiency and safety at this busy junction. The core of the improvements involves converting the existing interchange into a Diverging Diamond Interchange.
According to FDOT, the DDI design is expected to significantly reduce delays on Pine Ridge Road. It will also decrease the number of potential conflict points, which are locations where vehicles might collide, thereby improving overall safety for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
The project is also designed to accommodate future increases in traffic volume, ensuring the interchange remains effective as the region continues to grow. This initiative is being advanced as part of the Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative.
Key Improvements Include:
- Reconstruction of the Pine Ridge Road Interchange: Converting it to a Diverging Diamond Design.
- Reconstruction of On and Off Ramps: Modernizing and improving access points.
- Pedestrian and Bicycle Accommodations: Adding new facilities to ensure safety for non-motorized users through the interchange.
- Installation of New Signals: Upgrading traffic light systems at the ramps for better flow management.
- Resurfacing Pine Ridge Road: Improving the road surface within the project area for a smoother driving experience.
Motorists are encouraged to stay informed about project updates. Information and alerts are available by visiting swflroads.com/project/445296-1. This website offers detailed improvement plans and allows users to sign up for construction alerts directly.
It is important for drivers to remember that all construction activities, including this ramp closure, are subject to change based on prevailing weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. Drivers should remain vigilant and adjust their travel plans as needed.
