Stay Informed: Your Guide to Smooth Travel Amid Construction

Major Resurfacing Projects Alter Traffic Patterns

Several key resurfacing initiatives are underway in Escambia County, impacting major thoroughfares and requiring careful navigation by motorists. Scenic Highway (U.S. 90) is undergoing significant improvements from south of Interstate 10 (I-10) to Hyde Park Road. Nighttime lane closures will occur Sunday through Thursday, lasting from 8 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., as crews carry out milling and paving operations. Drivers should anticipate delays and plan their routes accordingly.

North Palafox Street (U.S. 29), another vital artery, faces daytime lane closures during the same period. From Cervantes Street to Brent Lane, paving activities will intermittently restrict lanes, potentially causing slowdowns. Gregory Street (U.S. 98) also experiences nighttime closures between North Palafox Street and 14th Avenue, with alternating lane access from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. These measures aim to enhance road quality and safety for all users.

Bridge Reconstruction and Detours Impact Interstate Travel

The Interstate Circle Bridge over Eight Mile Creek remains closed until mid-2025 due to reconstruction efforts. Drivers must follow detour routes via Pine Forest Road, Longleaf Drive, and Wymart Road. Signage guides travelers around the work zone, minimizing confusion and enhancing safety. Meanwhile, the I-10 at Nine Mile Road Interchange (Exit 5) sees inside lane closures near the interchange, with Nine Mile Road reduced to one lane in each direction between ramps. Law enforcement presence ensures orderly traffic flow.

Further east, the U.S. 29 northbound ramp to I-10 eastbound remains closed, diverting traffic to Broad Street for a U-turn onto U.S. 29 southbound. A new temporary on-ramp now facilitates access to I-10 eastbound, allowing for continued progress on the I-10/U.S. 29 interchange reconstruction. Additionally, I-10 between U.S. 29 and I-110 operates with two travel lanes in each direction, reducing congestion and improving overall efficiency.

Santa Rosa County Prepares for Infrastructure Upgrades

In Santa Rosa County, U.S. 90 undergoes resurfacing from Avalon Boulevard to Stewart Street, necessitating nighttime lane closures. Crews perform milling and paving operations from 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., Sunday through Thursday. The U.S. 90 bridge over Simpson River also witnesses westbound lane shifts this week, facilitating guardrail installation and shoulder work. Drivers should adhere to the posted 35 mph speed limit within the work zone.

The widening project on U.S. 98 from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive introduces median and turn-lane closures, along with intermittent lane restrictions. Stormwater drainage improvements and paving operations require nighttime closures from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. Starting Monday, S.R. 281 (Avalon Boulevard) lanes shift slightly west to accommodate permanent widening activities on the east side. Motorists are advised to remain vigilant and follow all directional signage.

Preparation and Flexibility Key to Safe Travel

All construction activities remain weather-dependent, with potential delays or rescheduling due to inclement conditions. Drivers should stay informed through local news outlets and official transportation websites. Planning ahead and exercising patience can significantly ease the impact of these necessary infrastructure upgrades. By adhering to detour routes and observing posted speed limits, travelers contribute to the success of these projects, ensuring safer and more efficient roads for everyone.