Currently, there are multiple projects that are in the works to help improve the accessibility and safety of roadways in Plant City, with more on the way.
Here are two projects that are in construction phase and are soon to wrap up this year.
Sam Allen Road Widening
For over three years, drivers have had to learn to accommodate themselves with the hassle of the reconstruction and widening of Sam Allen Road in Plant City .
The project was stalled during July of last year after its initial contractor pulled out. A new contractor resumed work later in September.
Spanning 2 miles, the Sam Allen Road expansion – to four lanes, will run just west of its intersection with State Road 39A (Paul Buchman Highway) to the east of its intersection with Park Road.
The intersection of Sam Allen Road and Paul Buchman Highway is improved with turning lanes and signalization.
Along with the widening, underground drainage pipes are being installed and four off-site ponds are being constructed to relieve rainwater that is collected through the piping system.
Pond 1 is located west of Paul Buchman Highway and south of Sam Allen Road. The second is just east of Paul Buchman Highway and south of Sam Allen Road. The third is located south of Sam Allen Road. The fourth is north of Sam Allen Road and east of Maryland Avenue.
There will also be sidewalks and bicycle lanes on both the north side and south side of Sam Allen Road.
A raised median will divide opposing traffic as well as an improved gutter and curb.
The expansion of two lanes into four will be an advantage with quicker access to both the soon-to-come South Florida Baptist Hospital and Interstate 4.
This will also help to relieve any traffic buildup, improve road safety, and provide an alternate trucking bypass around Plant City.
This is a joint partnership between the City of Plant City, Hillsborough County, and the Florida Department of Transportation.
The $23.2 million project is expected to be completed by the Spring of this year.
There are no lane closures as of Thursday, Jan. 13.
Turning Lane Improvement at U.S. 92 & SR 566
Construction is currently underway in improving the southbound and westbound turning radius at the intersection of U.S. 92 (Baker Street) and State Road 566 (Thonotosassa Road).
This is to better accommodate freight trucks that head west on Baker Street off Thonotosassa Road.
The project costs approximately $89,000 and is expected to be completed by the Spring of this year.
There will be no lane closures as of Friday, Jan. 14.