Work Has Begun on First of 2 Roundabouts on US 41 in South Venice at Wellen Park
The first roundabout is being built at U.S. 41 and Wellen Park Boulevard. Sidewalks and landscaping are included as part of this project.
U.S. 41 is now down to one lane in both directions in the area during this project. Officials say construction will mainly take place Monday through Friday from 7am - 5pm.
Wellen Park is funding this roundabout project. It is expected to be finished sometime in 2024.
West Villages Improvement District and Wellen Park are leading an improvement project for US 41 between Preto Boulevard and West Villages Parkway.
Phase 2 is scheduled to begin one to two months after Phase 1, with construction planned immediately east of the State College of Florida campus entrance on US 41 to Tortuga Cay Drive. During Phase 2, a second roundabout will be created at Mezzo Drive.
Traffic Updates: Traffic will be redirected to southbound lanes to allow the northbound work to be completed. Then, traffic will be redirected to northbound lanes to allow the southbound work to be completed.
SPEED REDUCTION: Upon completion of Phases 1 & 2, the speed limit will be set at 45 miles per hour along US 41 from Mezzo Drive to Preto Boulevard to maximize motorist, pedestrian and cyclist safety.
More information will be shared prior to construction starting about Phase 2.
FAQs
What are these improvements going to cost me as a homeowner?
Nothing. There is no fee or cost impact to homeowners for the initial planning, design, permitting and construction of the planned improvements.
What is the purpose of the US 41 improvements?
The West Villages Improvement District and Wellen Park are working to enhance safety for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists along US 41 in an area that is growing rapidly with new residential and commercial construction. In addition to the added curbs, landscaping and functional traffic roundabouts, reduced speed limits will also help mitigate roadway noise.
How long is construction expected to last during the project?
Construction will begin early June 2022 and will be completed in phases. Phase 1 and 2 are expected to be completed by mid-2023.
Will there be any road closures during construction?
Extensive planning has been done to ensure there will be minimal traffic impacts. Lanes will be reduced with a 45 miles per hour speed limit throughout the work zone and roundabouts will be built in sections with traffic being redirected accordingly. While initial plans do not include any planned road closures, our team will be continuously monitoring traffic impacts and adjust plans, as needed.
Will there be any permanent traffic changes following construction?
Upon completion of Phases 1 and 2, the speed limit will be set at 45 miles per hour along US 41 from Mezzo Drive to Preto Boulevard to maximize motorist, pedestrian and cyclist safety. Reduced speed will also help mitigate noise impacts associated with US 41 traffic.
How can I stay informed of project updates?
Project updates will be posted on this webpage periodically.
Learn more here: https://westvillagesid.org/us41improvementproject/
Photo: Getty Images