John Sims Parkway Improvment Project

News and information
	New eastbound section opens A new section of John Sims Parkway opened in early May 2008. Construction crews from APAC-Southeast completed the new eastbound travel and turn lanes between the eastern end of the Boggy Bayou Bridge and Crestview Avenue (SR 85). The new eastbound lanes between Crestview Avenue and Bayshore Drive opened in late April 2008. Meantime, work continues to finish the eastbound section between Government Avenue and the Boggy Bayou Bridge and the westbound travel and turn lanes between Bayshore Drive and Government Avenue. The entire $12.6 million project is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2008. All construction plans are weather dependent and may be re-scheduled in the event of inclement weather. More than 52,000 drivers travel John Sims Parkway each day, making it one of the busiest commercial thoroughfares in the region. Widening the 1.1-mile section of the parkway between Government Avenue and Bayshore Drive will help relieve congestion and improve traffic safety.
	Access management When the project is completed the east and westbound travel lanes will be separated by a raised median. The median will restrict left turns to “median cuts” and signalized intersections. Four median cuts (two on either side of the Boggy Bayou Bridge) and two signalized intersections are in place along the 1.1-mile section of John Sims Parkway. For More information on FDOT access management strategies Click Here.
	Work zone safety Safety is of paramount importance to the Florida Department of Transportation and its’ consultants as they build and maintain the state’s transportation infrastructure. Drivers are reminded to use caution when traveling in this or other highway construction zones. Observing these simple rules will protect both drivers and the construction crews at work in the construction zones. Obey posted speed limits. Maintain traffic flow. Do not tailgate. Read and obey informational signs. Be alert for directions from “flaggers” or law enforcement personnel who may be directing traffic in the construction zone. Avoid lane changes. Watch out for construction personnel and equipment. Be aware of slow-moving construction equipment entering the roadway.
	Alternate route Because of the location of current construction work, some commuters may wish to begin temporarily using State Road 123 to by-pass the John Sims Parkway construction zone. Drivers on State Road 85 Southbound can turn right onto State Road 123 before reaching the John Sims Parkway intersection. State Road 123 re-joins State Road 85 beyond the construction zone. Please Select the map at left to view a larger image.
	Stay informed with E-newsletters You can stay informed on the latest project information by subscribing to the free E-newsletters. The E-newsletters are published periodically and can be delivered directly to your inbox. To subscribe send your name and E-mail address to johnsimsparkway@volkert.com.