Florida News Straight From the Source
Tomorrow, May 4th, Governor Rick Scott will speak at the annual Pasco County Sheriff’s Office Law Enforcement Memorial Service to honor the officers who have died in the line of duty in Pasco County.
WHAT: Law Enforcement Memorial Service
WHEN: 10:00 AM
WHERE: Dade City Historic Courthouse
37918 Meridian Ave.
Dade City, FL 33525
DISTRICT ONE DISTRICTWIDE ROADWATCH REPORT #18District One is 12 counties: Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee,
Hendry, Highlands, Lee, Manatee, Okeechobee, Polk and Sarasota
As a reminder, travelers can visit www.FL511.com or dial “511” from their
phone to learn about traffic conditions on major roadways across the state.
If you know before you go, you can plan accordingly and save time and money.
I-75 from N. Jones Loop Road (exit 161) to US 17 (exit 164): Construction project: Work continues to widen approximately four miles of the interstate from four to six lanes and widen the bridges over N. Jones Loop Road (exit #161) and Marion Avenue/Riverside Drive/Seminole Gulf Railway. The project also includes roadway safety improvements and bridge work under I-75 on N. Jones Loop Road, US 17, and Marion Avenue/Riverside Drive.
Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway. Drivers should use caution while traveling in this area and be alert to trucks entering and exiting roadways in the work zone. Estimated completion is early 2019, weather permitting. The contractor is Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC.
US 41 from Frizzell Lane Northwest to Murdock Circle: Construction project: Crews will widen the roadway and improve drainage. Work occurs during daytime and nighttime hours. Motorists should expect intermittent lane closures during nighttime/overnight hours from 6:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. throughout the duration of the project, weather permitting. Motorists and pedestrians should use caution traveling in the work zone. Estimated project completion is summer 2018. The contractor is Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC.
US 17 from Bermont Road (CR 74) to Pinegrove Circle: Construction project: The project includes signal upgrades at Disston Avenue, milling and resurfacing, and drainage improvements. The project will also install curb and gutter, sidewalk and improve signing and pavement markings. Lane closures may occur during daytime and nighttime hours. Motorists should be aware of heavy machinery and large trucks entering and exiting the roadway. Motorists should use caution while traveling in this area. Estimated project completion is summer 2018. The contractor is Preferred Materials, Inc.
I-75 from Alligator Alley (mile marker 61) to just north of SR 78 (exit 143): Construction project: Work is underway to replace 24 Dynamic Message Signs. Motorists should expect intermittent lane closures during nighttime/overnight hours. Estimated project completion is fall 2018. The contractor is Horsepower Electric, Inc.
I-75/Alligator Alley Rest Area (mile marker 63): Construction project: Work is underway to build a new rest area and water treatment plant on the north side of the roadway. Estimated project completion is spring 2018. The contractor is West Construction, Inc.
US 41 from Pine Ridge Road to Sandpine Drive: Construction project: Crews will be placing sidewalk, drainage structures and lighting on the east side of US 41. Crews will also resurface the intersection of US 41 and Pelican Bay Boulevard. Work occurs during daytime and nighttime hours. Motorists should expect intermittent lane closures through the duration of the project during nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. Drivers should use caution traveling in this area. Estimated completion is summer 2018. The contractor is American Lighting & Signalization, Inc.
US 41 from Golden Gate Parkway to Orchid Drive: Maintenance permit project: Motorists should expect intermittent southbound lane closures during nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. weekdays, while crews replace a driveway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
US 41 from Habitat Drive to SR 951/Collier Boulevard: Maintenance permit project: Motorists should expect intermittent southbound lane closures during daytime hours weekdays, while crews extend turn lanes, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 29 from South 7th Street to South 2nd Street: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect intermittent eastbound lane closures during daytime hours, while crews make water main connections, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
8th Street NE from Golden Gate Boulevard to Randall Boulevard: Construction project: This project constructs a new bridge over the Cypress Canal. Crews will also widen existing lanes, add sidewalk to the west side of the roadway and improve drainage throughout the project area.Work will occur during daytime hours. Motorists should expect intermittent lane closures from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Local area residents will have access at all times. Motorists and pedestrians should use caution while traveling in this area. Estimated project completion is spring 2019. The contractor is Bergeron Land Development, Inc.
SR 72 at SW Rodgers Avenue and SW Gator Trail: Construction project: Traffic on SR 72 shifts slightly north using the westbound lane and shoulder near SW Rodgers Avenue, so crews can build a new box culvert.
This project includes adding box culverts, grading ditches, reconstructing roadway shoulders and adding guardrail along the south side of SR 72. Expected completion is Summer 2018. The contractor is Estep Construction, Inc.
SR 70 (West Oak Street) Railroad Crossing: Construction project: Work begins Monday, May 7 to improve the railroad crossing on SR 70 (West Oak Street) west of US 17 in Arcadia. Crews will work on one side of the roadway at a time, shifting both directions of traffic to the use the open side of the roadway. Two-way traffic will be maintained at all times; however, motorists should use caution and expect delays. The project also includes milling and resurfacing the roadway adjacent to the railroad tracks and installing drainage improvements. Estimated completion is June 2018, weather permitting. The contractor is Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC.
SR 78 from SR 29 to US 27: Maintenance permit project: Crews will be landscaping near the roadway from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near and on the roadway.
SR 78 from the City of Lakeport to Indian Prairie Canal: Maintenance project: Crews will be landscaping near the roadway during daytime hours, Monday through Thursday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
SR 78 from Indian Prairie to the Okeechobee County line: Maintenance project: Crews will be landscaping near the roadway during daytime hours, Monday through Thursday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
US 17 from the Hardee/Desoto County Line to Sweetwater Road (CR 634): Construction project: Crews will be widening US 17 from two lanes to four lanes, adding a grassed median and building new two-lane bridges over Charlie Creek and Charlie Creek Overflow. The contractor will also install new roadside drainage swales and storm water ponds to manage water running off the roadway. The contractor is Watson Civil Construction. Watch for crews and equipment working close to the road. Drivers should expect daytime lane closures and flaggers will direct motorists through the work zone in a single lane. Please observe posted speed limits and drive with caution in the construction zone. Estimated completion is summer 2018.
US 27 at CR 720: Maintenance permit project: Motorists should expect intermittent southbound lane closures during daytime hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday while crews repair the shoulders, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
US 27 from SR 80 to the Palm Beach County Line: Maintenance contract project: Crews will be installing underground utilities near the roadway during daytime hours, Monday through Friday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
US 27 from Flaghole Road to the City of Clewiston: Maintenance project: Crews will be cleaning guardrails near the roadway during daytime hours, Monday through Thursday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
US 27 in the City of Clewiston: Maintenance permit project: Crews will be installing underground utilities near the roadway during daytime hours, Monday through Friday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
SR 80 from Belmont Street to Birchwood Parkway: Maintenance permit project: Crews will be landscaping near the roadway from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near and on the roadway.
SR 80 from Birchwood Parkway to Dalton Lane: Maintenance contract project: Crews will be installing underground utilities near the roadway during daytime hours, Monday through Friday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
SR 80 from Dalton Lane to CR 833: Construction project: Crews will widen approximately 11 miles of roadway from two to four lanes and add new turning lanes. Additional work includes repaving the current lanes of SR 80 and constructing ten new bridges. Three of the bridges will require full demolition and removal of the existing bridges in order to construct the new ones. Work also includes drainage improvements, adding curb and gutter, and installing LED lighting. Drivers should use caution while traveling in this area. Estimated project completion is summer 2020. The contractor is AJAX Paving Industries of Florida.
SR 80 from Dalton Lane to Indian Hills Drive: Maintenance permit project: Crews will be relocating utilities near the roadway during daytime hours, Monday through Friday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
SR 29 from CR 833 to Sears Road: Maintenance project: Crews will be landscaping near the roadway during daytime hours, Monday through Thursday, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
SR 29 (Bridge Street) from south of CR 832 to south of C Road: Construction project: Crews continue to work on milling and resurfacing approximately 6.5 miles of SR 29 from south of CR 832 to south of C Road in Hendry County. The project also includes widening turn lanes, drainage improvements, guardrail, signing, and pavement markers.
The contractor is Ajax Paving Industries of Florida. Estimated project completion date is fall of 2018.
US 27 Northbound just north of S. Sun N Lakes Boulevard in Lake Placid: Permit project: Crews will be constructing an agricultural driveway. Watch for trucks entering and exiting the site. Please use caution in this area and watch for crews working close to the roadway.
US 27 Southbound between Golfview Road and Tubbs Road: Maintenance permit project: Crews will reconstruct the driveway/connection at the old Mexican Restaurant location and adjacent property. Watch for trucks entering and exiting the site. Please use caution in this area and watch for crews working close to the roadway.
US 27 Southbound at Shop 16 Road/west Lake Isis Avenue: Maintenance permit project: Crews will begin the modification of the median opening at West Palmetto Road. This opening will be closed to traffic and will take about two weeks to complete. Watch for trucks entering and exiting the site. Please use caution in this area and watch for crews working close to the roadway.
SR 66 from Highlands/Hardee County Line to west of US 27/US 98: Construction project: Crews are repaving approximately 9 miles of roadway on both the eastbound and westbound lanes of SR 66 from the Highlands/Hardee County Line to US 27. Additional improvements include the addition of a right turn lane on to Skipper Road, widening the right turn lanes on to South George Boulevard, Sparta Road, and Woodland Creek Trail, installing drainage, curb and gutter, guardrail, pavement markings, and signage. Anticipate daytime and nighttime lane closures on SR 66 during construction and expect delays. Please use caution in this area and be aware of crews working close to the roadway.
Estimated project completion is summer 2018. The contractor is Lawrence Lynch Corporation.
SR 64 from Shell Avenue to North Irvington Road: Maintenance Inhouse Crews: Motorists should expect daytime westbound lane closures starting on May 7 and ending on May 18 from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. while crews rework ditches.
I-75 from Alligator Alley (mile marker 61) to mile marker 146 (just north of SR 78, exit 143): Construction project: Work is underway to replace 24 Dynamic Message Signs. Motorists should expect intermittent lane closures during nighttime/overnight hours. Estimated project completion is fall 2018. The contractor is Horsepower Electric, Inc.
US 41 at Mildred Drive: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect intermittent eastbound and westbound lane closures during nighttime/overnight Sunday through Friday while crews restripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
US 41 from Sanibel Boulevard to Constitution Boulevard: Construction project: This project constructs a turn lane in the median and driveway entrance across from Shadow Wood Preserve. Work occurs during nighttime hours. Motorists should expect inside lane closures during nighttime hours from 8:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., weather permitting. Motorists and pedestrians should use caution traveling in the work zone. Estimated project completion is summer 2018. The contractor is Honc Industries.
US 41 from Playa Del Sol Boulevard to Business 41: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect intermittent northbound and southbound lane closures during nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through Friday while crews construct turn lanes, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
US 41 from Marsh Landing Boulevard to Fountain Lakes Boulevard: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect intermittent northbound lane closures during nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through Friday while cres construct turn lanes, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
US 41 from just south of Pelican Colony Boulevard to San Carlos Boulevard: Construction project: Work continues to install light poles on both sides of the roadway. Work occurs during daytime and nighttime hours. Motorists should expect intermittent outside lane closures during nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. through the duration of the project, weather permitting. Motorists and pedestrians should use caution traveling in the work zone. Estimated project completion is spring 2018. The contractor is Valiant Power South.
US 41 from Alico Road to Daniels Parkway: Construction project: Crews are improving approximately four miles of US 41. The project includes signal upgrades at various intersections, milling and resurfacing, miscellaneous shoulder widening, and improved pedestrian and bus access at multiple locations. Motorists should be aware of trucks entering and exiting the roadway. Estimated project completion is spring 2019. The contractor is Preferred Materials, Inc.
US41/Cleveland Avenue/Tamiami Trail from the Charlotte County Line to the Collier County Line: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect northbound and southbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to stripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 884/Colonial Boulevard from US 41 to Forum Boulevard: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect eastbound and westbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to stripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 884/Colonial Boulevard from US 41 to I-75: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect intermittent inside eastbound lane closures during daytime hours, Monday through Friday while crews mulch medians, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
SR 867/McGregor Boulevard from Colonial Boulevard to College Parkway: Maintenance permit project: Motorists should expect northbound and southbound lane closures as crews’ landscape near the roadway during daytime hours, between 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, weather permitting. Flaggers will direct motorists through the work zone during lane closures. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
SR 867/McGregor Boulevard from Colonial Boulevard to Gladiolus Drive: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect northbound and southbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to stripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 867/McGregor Boulevard from Old Whiskey Creek to Masanabo Lane: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect southbound traffic delays during daytime hours as crews replace sidewalk, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as large trucks enter or exit the roadway.
SR 865 at Whitewater Court: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect intermittent eastbound and westbound lane closures during nighttime/overnight Sunday through Friday while crews restripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
SR 865/San Carlos Boulevard from Gladiolus Drive to Estero Boulevard: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect northbound and southbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to stripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 865/San Carlos Boulevard at Whitewater Court: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect northbound and southbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to resurface the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 865/Six Mile Cypress Parkway from US 41 to Metro Parkway: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect northbound and southbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to stripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 739/Michael G. Rippe Parkway/Metro Parkway from US 41/South Tamiami Trail to US 41/North Tamiami Trail: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect intermittent northbound and southbound traffic delays on Michael G. Rippe Parkway, Metro Parkway, Evans Avenue, and Business 41 during nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., Monday through Friday, while crews restripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 82/Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard from US 41 to Lee Boulevard: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect eastbound and westbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to stripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 82 from Cranford Avenue to Ortiz Avenue: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect the inside westbound lane closed from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday while crews landscape the median, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
SR 82 from Lee Boulevard/Colonial Boulevard to Shawnee Road: Construction project: Crews will be widening SR 82 to six lanes from east of Lee Boulevard to Shawnee Road. Motorists should expect intermittent eastbound and westbound lane closures on SR 82 during nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., Monday through Friday throughout the duration of the project, weather permitting.
Additional work includes construction of a median separating three 12-foot travel lanes in each direction, 6.5-foot inside paved shoulders, bike lanes, a 5-foot sidewalk on the north side and a 10-foot shared-use path on the south side. The project will also add a grass median and LED lighting throughout this segment. The project also includes constructing Florida’s first Continuous Flow Intersection (CFI) at the intersection of SR 82 at Daniels Parkway/Gunnery Road. The CFI will ease traffic congestion at the intersection and include multiple signals to reduce turning delays. The expected completion date is end of summer of 2019. The Contractor is Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC.
SR 80/Palm Beach Boulevard from Seaboard Street to Fairview Avenue: Maintenance permit project: Motorists should expect intermittent inside eastbound and westbound lane closures during daytime hours Monday through Friday for crews to landscape the median, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution and expect delays as crews work near the roadway.
SR 80/Palm Beach Boulevard from Seaboard Street to Underwood Street: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect eastbound and westbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews perform storm drain maintenance, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 80/Palm Beach Boulevard from US 41 to Main Street: Maintenance permit project: Motorists should expect eastbound lane closures during nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. Monday through Thursday for crews to operate a crane near the roadway. Motorists should use caution and expect delays while travelling in the area.
SR 80/Palm Beach Boulevard from US 41 to the Hendry County Line: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect eastbound and westbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to stripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 78/Pine Island Road/Bayshore Road from Burnt Store Road to SR 31: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect eastbound and westbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to stripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
SR 31/Arcadia Road from SR 80 to the Wilson Pigott Bridge: Maintenance contract project: Motorists should expect northbound and southbound traffic delays during nighttime/overnight hours as crews conduct a slow-moving operation to stripe the roadway, weather permitting. Motorists should use caution as crews work in the roadway.
State Roadways (US 41, SR 31, SR 78, SR 80, SR 82, SR 739, SR 865 and SR 867): Maintenance contract project: Crews are sweeping curb and gutter on state roadways and bridges. Motorists should expect lane closures during nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., weather permitting. Motorists should expect slow moving traffic and possible delays.
State Roadways (US 41, SR 78, SR 865 and SR 867): Maintenance contract project: Crews are trimming/removing trees near state roadways and bridges. Motorists should use caution as crews work near the roadway.
Ellenton Gillette Road at 69th Street East: Construction project: Crews are constructing new left-turn lanes on Ellenton Gillette Road and 69thStreet E; improving drainage; constructing sidewalk; signal upgrades, and new signing. Expect daytime lane closures from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and flagging operations when crews begin construction of the turn-lanes. Expected completion is spring 2018. Coastal Bridge Company is the contractor.
I-275 at the Sunshine Skyway Rest Areas in Manatee and Pinellas Counties: Construction project: Improvements include constructing new rest areas and new parking lots with LED lighting, seawall repairs and extending the seawall at the Manatee County rest area to accommodate a new picnic pavilion. The Pinellas County Skyway Rest Area is closed for renovations. During this time, motorists will be directed to the Manatee County Skyway Rest Area. The closure is expected to last until fall 2018. The fishing piers will remain open during the closure. Construction is on-going on the new rest area site and the seawall on the Manatee side, west of I-275. Expected completion of both rest areas is fall 2019. David Nelson Construction Company is the contractor.
I-75 (SR 93) / University Parkway (Exit 213) Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) Sarasota/Manatee (Bradenton): Construction project:
Temporary intermittent single and double lane closures are in place at night/overnight on northbound and southbound I-75 Monday, May 7 through Thursday, May 10 between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. the following morning. Double lane closures begin at 11 p.m.
Temporary intermittent single and double lane closures are in place at night/overnight on eastbound and westbound University Parkway from Cooper Creek Blvd. to Market Street Monday, May 7 through Thursday, May 10 from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. the following morning. Double lane closures begin at 10 p.m.
The contractor is installing final asphalt friction course and pavement markings, weather permitting.
Improvements being made as part of this project consist of constructing a diverging diamond interchange, adding an auxiliary lane on northbound and southbound I-75, constructing new bridges on I-75 over University Parkway, widening of University Parkway, widening of I-75 bridges over Errie Creek and Foley Creek, realignment of on-ramps and off-ramps at I-75/University Parkway, addition of ponds, drainage improvements, new lighting and signalization, construction of a noise wall on the west side of I-75, sidewalks, bike lanes, and pedestrian walkways. Expected completion is early 2018. The contractor is Prince Contracting, LLC. For additional information, please visit the project website at swflroads.com/i75/university.
I-75 at SR 64/Manatee Avenue Interchange (Exit 220): Construction project: Crews are currently widening northbound and southbound I-75 and performing ramp, grading, and drainage work.
This project reconstructs the interchange, widens interchange ramps and SR 64, and installs sidewalks and bicycle lanes on SR 64. Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway. Drivers should use caution while traveling in this area. Estimated completion is late 2019. The contractor is Prince Contracting LLC.
I-75 over Braden River: Bridge maintenance project: Crews are working on the bridge. Expect nighttime/overnight north and southbound lane closures from 9 p.m. each night to 5 a.m. each morning Sunday, May 20 and Monday, May 21. Use caution and expect possible delays.
US 301 from CR 675 to Moccasin Wallow Road: Construction project: Crews are installing new landscaping, irrigation and welcome signs. Superior Landscaping & Lawn Services is the contractor. Expected completion is spring 2018.
US 301 at SR 70: Construction project: Crews are resurfacing the roadway, widening turn lanes, improving drainage, and installing new signing and pavement markings. Expect nighttime/overnight lane closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. while crews are working. Coastal Bridge Company is the contractor. Expected completion is summer 2018.
US 41 from Bayshore Gardens to 60th Avenue: Construction project: Crews are improving drainage, reconstructing pavement and driveways, constructing sidewalk, and installing new striping. Expect nighttime/overnight lane closures from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. while crews are working. Rogar Management & Consulting of FL is the contractor. Expected completion is early summer 2018.
US 41 between 37th Avenue W and 36th Avenue W: Maintenance permit project: Crews are constructing a driveway. Expect intermittent northbound lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Friday, May 11. Use caution and expect possible delays.
SR 789/Gulf Drive from SR 64/Manatee Avenue to SR 684/Cortez Road: Maintenance permit project: Manatee County is installing new force mains and water mains. For additional information about the project, please visit the project website at amipipereplacement.com.
SR 684 at the Cortez Drawbridge: Bridge maintenance project: Crews are working on the bridge. Expect nighttime/overnight intermittent east and westbound lane closures from 9 p.m. each night to 5 a.m. each morning Wednesday, May 9 and Thursday, May 10. Use caution and expect possible delays.
SR 70 over the Myakka River: Bridge maintenance project: Crews are working on the bridge. Expect nighttime/overnight intermittent east and westbound lane closures from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Tuesday, May 22. Use caution and expect possible delays.
SR 64 from Martinique Drive to 107th Court W: Construction project: Crews are improving drainage; constructing sidewalk and bicycle lanes, and installing new signing and pavement markings. Work occurs off the roadway and does not require lane closures. Florida Safety Contractors, Inc. is the contractor. Expected completion is fall 2018.
SR 64/Bradenton-Arcadia Road at Rye Road: Construction project: This project is to install a temporary traffic signal. The project also includes pedestrian signals and crosswalk at Rye Road. This week, crews will work on punch list items and site cleanup.
Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway. Drivers should use caution while traveling in the work zone. Estimated completion is April 30, 2018, weather permitting. Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC is the contractor.
SR 64/Bradenton-Arcadia Road at Lorraine Road: Construction project: This project is to install a temporary traffic signal. The project also includes pedestrian signals and crosswalk at Lorraine Road and 145th Street East. This week, crews will work on installing traffic signal poles and signal wiring.
Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway. Drivers should use caution while traveling in the work zone. Estimated completion is June 30, 2018, weather permitting. Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC is the contractor.
US 441 from south of NE 131st Lane to south of NE 224th Street: Construction project: Crews will begin to make improvements along 5.8 miles of US 441 from south of NE 131ST Lane to south of NE 224th Street in Okeechobee County. The project includes milling and with resurfacing, adding a southbound left turn lane, drainage improvements, signing and pavement markers and signalization on State Road 15 from NE 131st Lane northerly to south of NE 224th Street. The contractor is Ranger Construction. Estimated completion date is fall of 2018.Motorists should anticipate daytime and nighttime single-lane closures and follow flagger direction. Expect delays and use caution– watch for workers in the construction zone.
US 441 North/North Parrott Avenue over Taylor Creek: Construction project: Crews will begin removal and replacement of an existing portion of the bridge deck over Taylor Creek beginning April 9, 2018. Additional improvements include removal and replacement of guardrail, pavement markings, and installation of pile jackets, which are stay-in-place forms that are installed around the bridge supports and filled with concrete. During construction, we ask motorists and pedestrians to use caution in this area and watch for crews working close to the roadway. Motorists should expect periodic lane closures as part of the construction process. Estimated project completion is summer 2018. The contractor is Cone and Graham, Inc.
US 98/US 441, SR 78 and the access road to Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail: Construction project: Crews will begin to make improvements at various locations along US 98/US 441, State Road 78 and the access road to the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail in Okeechobee. Work will include sidewalk construction, shoulder widening, base work, drainage improvements, curb & gutter, guardrail removal, signing and pavement marking, signalization and lighting. The contractor is American Lighting & Signalization. Estimated completion date is spring of 2018. Please watch for workers in the construction zone and use caution.
SR 70 from SW 78th Terrace to North Parrott Avenue/US 441 from SR 70 to Osceola County: Multiple permit projects: Utility work will be close to the roadway in urban areas but further away in rural areas. Please use caution in these areas and watch for crews working close to the roadway.
I-4 Eastbound off-ramp at County Line Road: Construction Project: Watch for crews working on the shoulder of the road. Pedestrians should use the pedestrian detour behind the barrier wall on the shoulder of the road. This project includes drainage work, sidewalk grading and sodding. The contractor is Atlantic Civil, Inc. Expected completion is summer 2018.
US 92 (New Tampa Hwy) from County Line Road to Wabash in Lakeland: Maintenance contracts project: Watch for shoulder closures with workers close to the road and trucks entering and exiting the roadway as crews clean ditches along both the eastbound and westbound lanes through late May. The contractor is F.W.A.K. Inc.
US 92 from Saddle Creek to Lake Alfred: Maintenance contracts project: Watch for intermittent shoulder closures, both eastbound and westbound, with workers close to the road and trucks entering and exiting the roadway as crews repair/replace broken sidewalks, driveways, mitered ends, and trip hazards through mid-June. The contractor is Evans Contracting Services.
US 27 From SR 60 to US 98: Maintenance contracts project: Watch for intermittent lane closures and trucks entering and exiting the roadway, both north and southbound, through the end of May while crews rework shoulders and place sod. Use caution and be prepared to merge.
US 27 through Polk County: Construction project: Crews are working on the shoulder of the road. Use caution and watch for workers close to the roadway.
This project includes designing and installing an adaptive signal control system along US 27 in Polk County. The contractor will install detection and control equipment, fiber optic cable to connect the traffic signal controllers and a lease line to connect to the Polk County Traffic Management Center (TMC) for remote monitoring and operation of the system. The contractor is Highway Safety Devices, Inc. Expected completion is fall 2018.
US 27 at NW Access Road: Maintenance permit project: Use caution and watch for workers and equipment close to the road. Be prepared to merge. This project includes asphalt milling and resurfacing, adding turn lanes and a new traffic signal on US 27 at NW Access Road, approximately 0.5 miles north of Interstate 4.
US 27 south of Sand Mine Road: Maintenance permit project: Watch for daytime southbound lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, May 7 through Thursday, May 10, while crews tie-in to utilities. Use caution and prepared to merge.
SR 659 (North Combee Road) at Lakeland Hills Boulevard: Maintenance permit project: Watch for eastbound lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. while crews add a new driveway and regrade the ditch.
SR 559 at Cone Road (Auburndale): Maintenance permits project: Watch for daytime lane closures with flaggers directing traffic from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. as crews build a northbound turn lane. Use caution and be prepared to stop.
SR 542 from 1st Street to Buckeye Loop Road: Frontier Communications utility permit project: Expect periodic lane closures while crews load and unload equipment, and workers close to the road, as crews relocate and install new communication facilities on the north and south side of the roadway. Expected completion is spring 2018.
SR 542 (Dundee Rd) from Overlook Drive to Cypresswood Boulevard: Maintenance contracts project: Watch for shoulder closures and intermittent lane closure as crews clean ditches behind guardrail along the westbound lane through mid-May. Expect workers close to the road and trucks entering and exiting the roadway. The contractor is F.W.A.K. Inc.
SR 540 (Winterlake Road) from Spirit Lake Road to US 17: Maintenance contracts project: Watch for intermittent eastbound lane and sidewalk closures and trucks entering and exiting the roadway while crews make repairs to sidewalks and driveways through mid-May. Use caution and be prepared to merge.
SR 540 at 6th Street intersection: Maintenance permit project: Watch for night time westbound lane closures from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. while crews add a new curb and driveway. Use caution and be prepared to merge.
SR 540 (Cypress Gardens Boulevard) at Carlton Arms Boulevard: Maintenance permit project: Watch for intermittent eastbound and westbound lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. while crews set signal poles. Use caution and be prepared to merge.
SR 60 from Diesel Road to Hillsborough County Line: Construction project: Watch for daytime lane closures as crews continue pipe work, reconstructing median crossovers and pouring curb throughout the project. Use caution and be prepared to merge. Work continues at the following crossovers:
Follow posted detours to U-turn at the next available median opening on SR 60.
This project includes resurfacing, drainage improvements, guardrail installation and median modifications. The Lane Construction Corporation is the contractor. Expected completion is fall 2018.
SR 60 at Alturas Road: Maintenance permit project: Watch for daytime lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. while crews remove existing driveways along the eastbound lanes. Use caution and be prepared to merge.
SR 60 at Sam Keen Road: Maintenance permit project: Watch for nighttime/overnight lane closures from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., Wednesday, May 2, as crews repair the asphalt in the right travel lane. Crews will close the right lane and turn lane at Sam Keen Road. Use caution and be prepared to merge. Motorists may turn at Sam Keen Road from the travel lane.
SR 37 from CR 640 (Pinecrest Road) to CR 630: Construction project: Expect periodic daytime shoulder and lane closures with flaggers directing traffic as crews mix shoulders, place sod and clean up. Use caution and be prepared to stop.
Work on this project includes full-depth reclamation by grinding out the old roadway into the base, adding a cement mix to make a new roadway base, placing a new asphalt layer on top of the recycled base, reconstructing shoulders and modifying the signal at CR 640 (Pinecrest Road). Ajax Paving is the contractor. Estimated completion is early 2019.
SR 37 (South Florida Avenue) at Carter Road and Shepherd Road/Shimmering Drive: Maintenance permits project: Watch for shoulder closures and trucks/equipment entering and leaving the highway as crews continue installing new pipe. Use caution.
SR 37 at Alamo Drive: Maintenance permit project: Watch for night time northbound lane closures from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. while crews add a new curb and driveway. Use caution and be prepared to merge.
SR 37 (South Florida Avenue) at SR 570 (Polk Parkway): Construction project: Crews will make safety improvements that include reconstructing curb and sidewalk, replacing pedestrian signals, and upgrading crosswalks. Crews are working on pedestrian signal wiring and punch list items.
Use caution and be prepared to merge. The contractor is Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC. Expected completion is summer 2018.
SR 33 (Commonwealth Avenue) over Rattlesnake Creek, approximately 17.5 miles north of I-4): Bridge Maintenance project: Watch for lane closures with flaggers directing traffic from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 9 through Friday, May 11. Lane closures are necessary as crews repair bridge deck joints. Use caution and be prepared to stop.
SR 33 (Commonwealth Avenue) over CR 655 (Berkley Road), approximately 5.7 miles north of I-4: Bridge Maintenance project: Watch for lane closures with flaggers directing traffic from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, May 7 through Wednesday, May 9. Lane closures are necessary as crews repair bridge deck joints. Use caution and be prepared to stop.
SR 33 (Lakeland Hills Boulevard) at East Garden Street: Maintenance permit project: Watch for northbound daytime lane closures from 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. as crews install a drilled shaft at the intersection. Use caution and be prepared to merge.
SR 33 at Mount Olive Road: Maintenance permit project: Watch for daytime lane closures with traffic shifts and flaggers directing traffic from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. as crews add a new turn lane and driveway. Use caution and be prepared to stop.
Laurel Road at the Legacy Trail Crossing: Construction project: Crews are constructing a pedestrian bridge along the Legacy Trail over Laurel Road. Please be aware of construction vehicles entering and leaving the construction zone. Both northbound and southbound trail traffic are now being detoured to the west along the signed detour route. The Mission Valley Boulevard crosswalk to the east is no longer a trail detour route to cross Laurel Road. Both sidewalks on the north and south side of Laurel Road are now closed. Please follow detour signs provided. Denson Construction, Inc. is the contractor for the bridge. Expected completion is fall 2018.
I-75 (SR 93) / University Parkway (Exit 213) Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) Sarasota/Manatee (Bradenton): Construction project:
Temporary intermittent single and double lane closures are in place at night/overnight on northbound and southbound I-75 Monday, May 7 through Thursday, May 10 between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. the following morning. Double lane closures begin at 11 p.m.
Temporary intermittent single and double lane closures are in place at night/overnight on eastbound and westbound University Parkway from Cooper Creek Blvd. to Market Street Monday, May 7 through Thursday, May 10 from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. the following morning. Double lane closures begin at 10 p.m.
The contractor is installing final asphalt friction course and pavement markings, weather permitting.
Improvements being made as part of this project consist of constructing a diverging diamond interchange, adding an auxiliary lane on northbound and southbound I-75, constructing new bridges on I-75 over University Parkway, widening of University Parkway, widening of I-75 bridges over Errie Creek and Foley Creek, realignment of on-ramps and off-ramps at I-75/University Parkway, addition of ponds, drainage improvements, new lighting and signalization, construction of a noise wall on the west side of I-75, sidewalks, bike lanes, and pedestrian walkways. Expected completion is early 2018. The contractor is Prince Contracting, LLC. For additional information, please visit the project website at swflroads.com/i75/university.
I-75 over Clark Road (Exit 205): Bridge maintenance project: Crews are working on the bridge. Expect nighttime/overnight southbound right lane closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Monday, May 7. Use caution and expect possible delays.
I-75 over Bee Ridge Road (Exit 207): Bridge maintenance project: Crews are working on the bridge. Expect nighttime/overnight southbound right lane closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Monday, May 7. Use caution and expect possible delays.
Business US 41 at the KMI Drawbridge (north of Venice Avenue): Bridge maintenance project: Crews are working on the bridge. Expect nighttime/overnight intermittent north and southbound lane closures from 9 p.m. each night to 5 a.m. each morning Sunday, May 20 through Thursday, May 24. Use caution and expect possible delays.
US 41 from SR 789 to Ritz Carlton Drive and sidewalk located along the north side of SR 789 from Sunset Drive to US 41: Maintenance permit project: The sidewalk will remain closed until construction of the development located at the corner of US 41 and SR 789 is complete. Pedestrians should follow the established detour.
US 41 from Browning Street to 11th Street: Construction project: Crews are resurfacing the roadway; installing new drainage; installing highway lighting, curb and gutter; constructing new sidewalk, and installing new signing and pavement markings. Expect nighttime/overnight lane closures on US 41; US 301; Fruitville Road, and Orange Avenue while crews are working. Crews are constructing a new right turn-lane from northbound US 41 to Fruitville Road. Once constructed, the existing right turn-lane will be closed to traffic. Crews will then construct a pedestrian island and improve drainage. The outside northbound lane of US 41 at Fruitville Road is closed to traffic for approximately two weeks. Motorists wishing to turn right onto Fruitville Road will do so from the middle lane, which will also serve as a northbound thru lane. The inside lane will remain a dedicated thru lane. Nighttime/overnight northbound outside lane closures are also expected from 9 p.m. each night to 6 a.m. each morning while crews are working. Preferred Materials, Inc. is the contractor. Expected completion is spring 2018.
US 41 from Salford Boulevard to Sumter Boulevard: Construction project: Crews are widening US 41 from Salford Boulevard to Sumter Boulevard to a six-lane highway; resurfacing the roadway; improving drainage; constructing sidewalk, and installing highway lighting. Expect nighttime/overnight lane closures from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. when crews are resurfacing the roadway. Expect periodic driveway closures along the northbound lanes while crews are installing drainage systems. Russell Engineering, Inc. is the contractor. Expected completion is spring 2019.
US 41 Roundabouts at 10th Street and 14th Street, Sarasota: Construction project: Crews continue work within the right-of-way, medians and driveways.
Improvements being made as part of this project consist of reconstructing the signalized intersections and replacing them with roundabouts, enhancing connectivity, circulation and safety. US 41 will be widened between the two intersections and will include bike lanes as well as dedicated turn lanes, a 10-foot sidewalk along the west side, and a 6-foot sidewalk along the east side. Other improvements include raised islands for pedestrian refuge at the intersections of US 41 at 10th Street and 14th Street, pedestrian signals, LED street lights, landscaping, and City of Sarasota utility and underground drainage structure replacements. Expected completion is spring 2020. The contractor is IBT Construction LLC.
US 41 from Hospital Road to River Road: Maintenance permit project: Crews are constructing new turn-lanes, driveway connections, and working in the medians. Expect intermittent north and southbound daytime lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through Friday, May 25. Use caution and expect possible delays.
SR 758/Bee Ridge Road from Bond Place to Cattleman Road: Construction project: Crews are resurfacing the roadway, constructing sidewalk, improving drainage, and upgrading traffic signals and highway lighting. Expect nighttime/overnight single-lane closures from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. while crews are working. Ajax Paving Industries of Florida is the contractor. Expected completion is late fall 2018.
Governor Rick Scott today announced that the Florida Department of State (DOS) is proactively hiring five cybersecurity specialists in advance of the 2018 elections to serve as a resource for election officials. DOS’ top priority is the security and integrity of Florida’s elections and voter information. Florida’s elections are supervised locally, and each supervisor of elections is in charge of the security of elections in their area.
Governor Scott said, “Fair, honest and accurate elections are critical to our democracy. Following a secure and successful election in 2016, Florida has been focused on continued election security efforts. We must be proactive in our efforts to preserve the security and integrity of our elections, which is why I directed the Department of State to invest in a team of cybersecurity specialists that will serve as a resource to all of our election officials.”
Secretary Ken Detzner said, “The Department and local election officials have taken significant steps to protect against the growing threat of cybercrime. The addition of five cybersecurity specialists will help us better anticipate and defend against potential cyber threats. I am proud of the proactive work my team is already doing and these specialists will offer an extra level of security that will benefit the nearly 13 million registered voters in Florida.”
The cybersecurity specialists will be hired as consultants for election officials, and will provide real-time guidance and expertise on cybersecurity issues. The cybersecurity specialists will be in addition to the DOS’ existing team of knowledgeable and highly capable Information Technology professionals who help ensure Department systems are secure.
“Florida is a leader among states when it comes to cybersecurity for elections,” said Matt Masterson, Senior Cybersecurity Advisory with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). “The State and the Supervisors of Elections have taken key steps to ensure the security and resilience of elections in Florida. DHS is fully committed to supporting their efforts by providing training, security assessments, and sharing information about potential threats in near real-time.”
Prior to the 2016 election, DOS upgraded to state-of-the-art hardware, software and firewalls to safeguard voter information in the Florida Voter Registration System (FVRS) and prevent any possible hacking attempts from being successful. DOS’ efforts are working as the FVRS remains secure. DOS is also enhancing the security of the Florida Election Watch website to ensure there is no disruption in election night reporting of results as well as strengthening protections of Florida’s online voter registration website.
DOS has also been working diligently with Supervisors of Elections to help Florida counties modernize their voting systems. More than two-thirds of Florida counties have completed a voting equipment modernization and the majority of the remaining counties are in the process of completing a modernization or upgrade.
During the 2018 Legislative Session, DOS received $1.9 million in funding to provide grants to Supervisors of Elections for the purchase of a Network Monitoring Security solution, called ALBERT, that is offered through the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC). MS-ISAC identifies and shares information about potential threats with states and assists with the 24-7 monitoring of state networks for suspicious activity. ALBERT will provide automated alerts about system threats that will allow counties to respond quickly when data may be at risk. Several Supervisors of Elections have completed the process to get ALBERT online in their county, and many others have initiated the process.
“Supervisors of Elections in Florida are taking advantage of the cybersecurity resources being made available to us through our state, federal, and non-governmental partners,” said David Stafford, Escambia County Supervisor of Elections. “Supervisors are not only focused on cybersecurity but also on the physical security of our equipment and facilities. We are looking at elections security from every angle and are working diligently to be as prepared as possible for the 2018 election and beyond.”
DOS continues to work closely with DHS, MS-ISAC, as well as the Agency for State Technology, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida National Guard and the Federal Bureau of Investigation on election security.
Commissioner Adam H. Putnam will deliver the commencement address at Hillsborough Community College on Friday, May 4.
Event: Hillsborough Community College Graduation
Date: Friday, May 4, 2018
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Florida State Fairgrounds, Expo Hall
4800 US Hwy. 301 North
Tampa, Fla.
Governor Rick Scott made the following statement today regarding FEMA extending the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program (TSA) for families who were displaced due to Hurricanes Irma and Maria. For more information click HERE.
Governor Scott said, “Florida has done everything possible to help our neighbors in Puerto Rico with their continued recovery from Hurricane Maria. Over the past seven months since Maria made landfall, we have remained in constant communication with Governor Ricardo Rosselló and his leadership team and I have made five trips to Puerto Rico to offer our full assistance and guidance. Florida remains the only state with a Host-State Agreement with FEMA to help families from Puerto Rico. I also recently spoke with FEMA Administrator Brock Long about our joint efforts to make sure we are doing everything possible to help those who evacuated here. This includes keeping the FEMA case managers I requested on the ground across our state to offer assistance. I’m glad to hear that FEMA is once again extending Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for the many families from Puerto Rico in the Sunshine State and we continue to stand ready to assist in any way possible.”
Action taken by Governor Scott following Hurricane Maria:
The secret is out! And the big reveal now has become the rich reward — with a new energetic look and feel for Stetson Athletics and Hatter Nation.
During Stetson’s annual Late Night Breakfast at the Rinker Field House tonight, athletes took the stage for a “fashion show,” wearing new Nike® uniforms that sported freshly restyled Athletics logo/brand marks designed to capture both historic Hatter spirit and progressive movement into the future.
A day earlier, Stetson Athletics Director Jeff Altier saluted the diligence of a committee that had spent two years in research and development, encompassing all sectors of the Stetson community – students, faculty, alumni, Trustees, former athletes, coaches and others.
“I am very proud of the work they did,” said Altier. “This group took a great deal of time and effort to solicit input from many, many focus groups, allowing students, faculty, staff and alumni the opportunity to influence the final result.
“The new Stetson logos and branding give the entire Stetson University community a set of icons to be proud of,” commented Ricky Hazel, associate director of Athletics. “The logos honor the long history of Hatters Athletics while at the same time reflecting a clean, modern feel that will carry well into the future.”
The highlight of the logo redesign is a warm embrace of the Stetson “S” in place of “SU.” Also gone is the hat sitting tilted atop the SU. Instead, a new centered, tilted hat is introduced and neatly incorporated into the Stetson “S” to infuse “energy” and “excitement.” The hat comes with a lively accent band.
Notably, the lone S is a return to Stetson’s past, when it was the standard-bearer for Hatter Athletics for nearly a century. In the late 1990s, a transition away from the “S” brought “SU.” Lately, however, Altier had said that “people saw the ‘SU’ and they saw the hat, and they immediately thought West. So, they were thinking Stetson was in Texas.”
To further strengthen ties to tradition, the existing Stetson Athletics’ Hatter Green (a dark shade of green) and the university’s Stetson Green (a lighter, brighter shade of green) are the lone predominate colors, accompanied only by white, black and gray — with their use strictly outlined in a Stetson Athletics brand identity book.
The signature use of two different greens is “very uncommon” in intercollegiate athletics, noted Joel Jones, assistant vice president of University Marketing. He called their use “distinctive” and “ownable.”
“We purposefully brought in the brighter university green and married it with Athletics green, because we didn’t want to lose any of our history, tradition and nostalgia,” Jones explained.
So with a nod to the past, a new era beckons for Stetson Athletics.
Learn more about Stetson’s journey to a new brand look for Athletics on Stetson Today.
The Florida Lottery announces that Robert Hughes, 67, of New Port Richey, claimed a $1 million prize in the new FLORIDA 100X THE CASH Scratch-Off game at Florida Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee. He chose to receive his winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $770,000.00.
Hughes purchased his winning ticket from 7-Eleven, located at 6315 Rowan Road in New Port Richey. The retailer will receive a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning Scratch-Off ticket.
The new $30 game, FLORIDA 100X THE CASH, launched on February 26, and features eight top prizes of $15 million – the largest Scratch-Off top prize ever offered by the Florida Lottery! The game also offers 20 prizes of $1 million. Overall odds of winning are one-in-2.59.
Scratch-Offs are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, generating more than $784 million for the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF) in FY 2016-17, and comprising approximately 68 percent of ticket sales.
Stetson University will celebrate its 132nd commencement in DeLand next week, honoring 828 graduate and undergraduate students. That number represents the third-highest total number of graduating students Stetson has honored at commencement. Again this year, the graduate and undergraduate ceremonies will be divided.
Stetson will confer master’s degrees on 180 graduate students from the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Business Administration on Thursday, May 10, in the Edmunds Center, 5-6 p.m., with a reception for students, family and friends in the Edmunds Center immediately following the ceremony. Doors open for guests at 3:45 p.m. The Edmunds Center is at 143 E. Pennsylvania Ave., DeLand, Florida, 32723.
Stetson will honor 648 undergraduate students at their commencement on Saturday, May 12, 8-10 a.m., in Spec Martin Memorial Stadium. Doors open for guests at 6:45 a.m. Receptions for students, family and friends will be held on the DeLand campus immediately following the ceremony. Visit the commencement website for times and locations. The stadium is at 260 E. Euclid Ave., DeLand, Florida, 32724.
On the DeLand campus, students and faculty nominate and vote on the keynote speakers. This year the graduate ceremony keynoters are Rachel Faircloth, business, and Lucianna Chixaro Ramos, creative writing. The undergraduate speakers are Kaitlyn Orien Silva Forsythe, digital arts, and Lucas Ludwig Coura, voice.
In addition to the two commencement ceremonies, Stetson celebrates student achievement with the ROTC Commissioning Ceremony and Undergraduate Awards & Recognition. Both events will be on Friday, May 11, in Lee Chapel in Elizabeth Hall, 421 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand, Florida, 32723. ROTC’s commissioning will be 10-11 a.m. and the awards event is 3-5 p.m.
Live streaming of the commencement ceremonies can be seen on Stetson Broadcast Productions. For more information and details on commencement 2018 events, please visit the commencement website.
Governor Scott today directed the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) to propose enhanced workforce housing in the Florida Keys as part of the continued efforts to recover from the tremendous impact Hurricane Irma had on the Keys. Hurricane Irma destroyed much of the housing that served the workforce population and the proposed Keys Workforce Housing Initiative will allow local governments to grant additional building permits for rental properties. This initiative will be presented to the Florida Cabinet at the next meeting.
Governor Scott said, “Hurricane Irma left a devastating impact on our state, especially in the Florida Keys and since the storm we have been working hard to rebuild even stronger than before. For business owners across the Keys, the availability of affordable workforce housing has been a challenge that was compounded by Hurricane Irma. The Keys Workforce Housing Initiative will provide much-needed access to workforce housing, allowing businesses the opportunity to grow while providing a plan to ensure Keys residents can evacuate safely before a storm.”
DEO is charged with reviewing local development decisions in the Florida Keys due to its legislative designation as an Area of Critical State Concern. State law requires that growth be limited in the Keys to ensure that residents can evacuate safely within 24 hours in advance of a hurricane. To meet the increased demand for workforce housing, the innovative Keys Workforce Housing Initiative will require new construction that participates to commit to evacuating renters in the 48-hour window of evacuation.
The initiative will allow up to 1,300 new building permits for workforce housing throughout the Florida Keys. Local governments that choose to participate in the initiative will work with DEO to amend their comprehensive plans to allow for additional building permits that meet these safety requirements.
Cissy Proctor, Executive Director of DEO, said, “As I have toured the damage from Hurricane Irma, the number one priority of business and community leaders is the need for more workforce housing. We are proud to provide an option to local governments that will help businesses have the talent they need to remain in the Keys and grow their companies. This solution will not only provide workforce housing for private-sector businesses but public servants, like law enforcement and teachers, as well. Our agency is committed to working with our partners in the Keys to provide ample workforce housing without compromising the safety of Floridians. We appreciate our partners at the Florida Division of Emergency Management for working with us to make sure Keys residents are still able to safely evacuate.”
Representative Holly Raschein said, “Hurricane Irma pushed the affordable housing problem in the Florida Keys to a critical state, decimating an already strained stock of housing for our workforce. I have discussed this concern with Governor Scott and the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) both in Tallahassee and during the Governor’s many visits to the Keys as he’s lead us through our recovery efforts. The plan Governor Scott has directed DEO to bring before Cabinet is a creative solution to the most pressing recovery challenge still facing the Florida Keys and I encourage all Cabinet members to support this proposal.”
Wes Maul, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said, “Our agency’s primary goal is the safety of Florida residents during disasters. The Keys Workforce Housing Initiative ensures the safety of tourists and residents of the Keys during major storms, while allowing critical economic development activities to continue. We appreciate DEO’s partnership in this endeavor.”
