A new round of progressive railroad crossing repairs scheduled by CSX Transportation will slow traffic in parts of Hillsborough County starting March 8 and ending around March 20. With several of these repairs being made in Plant City, efforts were made to eliminate conflicts with traffic caused by visitors of the Florida Strawberry Festival.
The first closure in Plant City will occur on East Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard on March 14, Sydney Dover Road on March 15, South Jerry Smith Road and several private roads on March 16, Turkey Creek Road on March 17, Waller Street, South Wheeler Street, South Evers Street and South Collins Street on March 19 and North Frontage Road and Terrace Drive on March 20.
Each closure is expected to last approximately two to five days to complete from the start date unless unforeseen circumstances arise. Teams will perform maintenance on the track from midnight until 10:30 a.m. Contractors, however, will continue to work throughout the day to resurface/repave crossings as they’re completed.
“Drivers should follow the posted detour routes around these closures,” said Assistant City Manager Jack Holland. “As with any schedule, these dates may vary due to weather or mechanical issues.”
While city officials regret any disruptions caused by CSX closures, longstanding statutes provide CSX authority to close roads crossing their rail lines. Plant City recognizes these repairs are necessary and will make for better and safer driving conditions when finished.