State lawmakers are seeking $8 million in state funds to push along a project, known as the diverging diamond interchange, to fix the daily traffic jams at Interstate 75 and State Road 56.
The trouble spot already is among Pasco County’s 2015 priorities for highway projects. The list is for a five-year plan that is updated annually and also includes the intersection at State Road 54 and U.S. 4, and other projects along State Road 52 and U.S. 301.
But, with some state money in hand, a project start date for I-75 and State Road 56 might come sooner rather than later. Currently, the Florida Department of Transportation anticipates funding in 2017 for study and design of the interchange.
(File Photo)
“I think there is reason to hope,” said State Sen. Richard Corcoran. The Land O’ Lakes lawmaker is the designated Speaker of the House when the 2016 legislature convenes Jan. 12.
Sarasota is the first city in Florida to build a diverging diamond interchange. The $74.5 million interchange at I-75 and University Parkway will be operational in 2017.
Another similar project is possible on Interstate 95 in Jacksonville.
In the diverging diamond interchange, multiple lanes of traffic from opposite directions crisscross from one side of the roadway to the other and then switch back, guided by road signs, marked lanes and traffic signals.
It might sound counter-intuitive, but in practice is easy to follow, eases traffic congestion, prevents wrong-way entry onto ramps and reduces crashes, according to engineering experts.
This type of interchange also allows for pedestrian crossings and bicycle lanes.
The expectation is that no additional right of way will be needed at I-75 and State Road 56, which will aid in costs and construction schedules.
Corcoran is meeting with representatives of the state department of transportation to discuss the matter. Federal funds also will be needed.
State Rep. Danny Burgess shares Corcoran’s optimism for the project. A funding request for $8 million has been filed, he said.
“We’re actively working hard to alleviate the current problem,” Burgess said.
Corcoran is familiar with the long lines that form during peak rush hours, because he drives that route almost daily.
The area surrounding the interchange is exploding with new growth, with more and more vehicles passing through I-75 and State Road 56.
Tampa Premium Outlets opened in October. Permits, site plans and wish lists for more commercial and residential growth in the area are multiplying, including the Cypress Creek Town Center. When that is finished, development will span both sides of State Road 56.
“It (the interchange) needs fixing very fast,” Corcoran said. “To the extent that we can play by the same rules as everyone else, it’s certainly going to be a top priority.”
That means making a convincing case that the project is worthy, Corcoran said.
Other states embraced the diverging diamond long before Florida.
Missouri was the first in 2009, and kept on building them, again and again. At nine, the state is home to the most diverging diamonds in the country, according to a list compiled by the Official Website of the DDI.
Utah is close behind, with eight, and North Carolina has seven.
As of Dec. 1, the website documented 64 diverging diamonds in operation around the country.
For information on Sarasota’s diverging diamond interchange, visit SWFLroads.com/i75/university. A YouTube video showing how the concept works also is available online.
Published January 6, 2016
