Crews have reopened the sidewalks on the south side of County Road (C.R.) 46A from Colonial Center Parkway to Rinehart Road and on the west side of Rinehart Road between C.R. 46A and Timacuan Boulevard. Sidewalk closures were previously required as crews widened the road to add and extend turn lanes at the C.R. 46A and Rinehart Road intersection. The improvement project at the C.R. 46A and Rinehart Road intersection, which is nearing completion, will increase capacity and help alleviate backups between Rinehart Road and the Interstate-4 (I-4) and C.R. 46A interchange.

Road widening starts with planning and design, which involves assessing the existing road, traffic patterns, surrounding infrastructure, and environmental concerns. The next step is preparation and demolition, during which crews develop a plan for relocating utility lines; remove plants, signs, structures, and debris; and establish appropriate detours for work requiring road closures.

Next, crews excavate the earth along the sides of the road to make room for the additional lanes. This step may require large machinery including bulldozers and excavators to clear the area. This work may also require relocating traffic signal equipment. Once the ground is prepared, crews can lay the foundation, pave, and add signage and pavement markings designed to help guide drivers safely through the area. Once everything is in place, the new lanes are ready to be opened to motorists.

Widening has become a critical element in modern roadway construction projects, playing an essential role in easing traffic congestion and improving safety. Increased traffic volume from community growth can impact roads originally designed to accommodate fewer vehicles. By adding and lengthening turn lanes at heavily traveled intersections such as C.R. 46A and Rinehart Road, crews provide more vehicle “storage,” preventing lengthy backups when the light is red and allowing more vehicles to pass through the intersection during each traffic signal phase.

Construction started in fall of 2023 and is anticipated to reach completion in 2025.

To learn more about this project, visit i4beyond.com/cr46a.