ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Construction work that is slowing traffic on Gulf Drive is due to the first phase of the Anna Maria Island Force Main 5 replacement project between 28th Street in Holmes Beach and 26th Street North in Bradenton Beach.
During construction, traffic lanes will remain open in both directions, though traffic will be shifted toward the western side of the street to allow for construction equipment. During this phase of construction, access to side streets will remain open from Gulf Drive.
A second phase of construction on the new force main is expected to begin on or around May 1, ending around June 29. Construction on the force main replacement will take place between Avenue C and Cortez Road. During construction, Gulf Drive will remain open to motorists with traffic lanes realigned on the west side of the street.
Once work reaches the area of 10th Street N. and Gulf Drive, access from Gulf Drive to 10th Street N. will be closed. Motorists will need to use either 11th or 12th Street N. to access 10th Street N. from Gulf Drive during this phase of construction.
Drivers can expect lowered speed limits and temporary delays when traveling through construction areas. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities will be closed in construction areas. Walkers and cyclists moving through these areas will need to move to the west side of the street or take an alternate route. In some areas of construction, pedestrians and cyclists may need to share the road with motorists. Construction in both areas may take longer than anticipated due to bad weather or other unforeseen delays.
Traffic signs directing motorists, pedestrians and cyclists will be placed temporarily in work zones during construction.
For more information on the ongoing force main replacement project, contact the project’s community outreach specialist Tina Allen at 813-842-2359 or tina@valerin-group.com.
