The Vanderbilt Beach Road Extension project, a vital infrastructure enhancement for Collier County, is finally gaining momentum. Spanning approximately 7 miles, this ambitious initiative extends Vanderbilt Beach Road from Collier Boulevard to 16th Street NE. The project promises to significantly improve transportation, safety, and accessibility for residents and travelers alike.
Construction Timeline and Contractor The construction contract was awarded to Sacyr Construction USA, with work commencing in early Fall 2022. The phased construction is expected to take three years, reaching substantial completion by late Summer 2025 and final completion by early Fall 2025. Work hours are generally scheduled from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with nighttime operations reserved for specific traffic-sensitive or utility-related tasks.
Highlights of the Roadway Design The extension includes several forward-thinking features designed to accommodate future growth and improve traffic flow:
Six-Lane Roadway: A new six-lane divided roadway from east of Collier Boulevard to Wilson Boulevard, complete with bike lanes and a shared-use path.
Expandable Roadway: A two-lane undivided section from Wilson Boulevard to 16th Street NE, with provisions for future expansion to six lanes.
Bridge Construction: Bridges over the Curry Canal, Corkscrew Canal, and Orange Tree Canal.
Signalized Intersections: New traffic signals at Wilson Boulevard, 8th Street NE, and 16th Street NE.
Canal Relocation: The Cypress Canal will be relocated southward to accommodate the widened road and improve stormwater conveyance.
Connectivity Enhancements: New intersections and connections at Weber Boulevard, Danbury Boulevard, Douglas Street, and Greyhawk Trail.
Multi-Modal Accommodations: Shared-use pathways, bike lanes, and wildlife-friendly infrastructure.
Phased Construction Approach To ensure minimal disruption, the project is divided into three main phases:
Phase 1 (Fall 2022 - Fall 2023): Focuses on Massey Street improvements, relocating the Cypress Canal, and constructing the segment between Curry Canal and 16th Street NE.
Phase 2: Involves the new roadway section from Douglas Street to Curry Canal and the eastbound lanes between Collier Boulevard and Massey Street.
Phase 3: Completes the westbound lanes between Collier Boulevard and Massey Street, with traffic temporarily using the newly built eastbound lanes during this phase.
Minimal Impact to Residents and Travelers Efforts are being made to minimize disruptions to the community. Access to driveways and entrances will remain open, with phased closures communicated to property owners in advance. Dust and noise will be managed with water applications and reasonable construction practices. Notifications about temporary access closures will be distributed via flyers at least seven days beforehand.
Key Benefits The new design prioritizes safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Key advantages include:
Multi-modal infrastructure such as bike lanes and shared-use paths.
Enhanced traffic safety through raised medians and signalized intersections.
Improved stormwater management with the relocated Cypress Canal.
Wildlife crossings and fencing to protect local ecosystems.
Potential for future landscaping, contingent on funding.
Looking Ahead While the project is still in its early stages, the Vanderbilt Beach Road Extension represents a significant step forward for Collier County’s infrastructure. Upon completion, residents and visitors can look forward to a safer, more efficient roadway system that accommodates the area’s growing transportation needs. Public engagement and regular updates will ensure the community stays informed as this much-needed project progresses.
For more information, please visit: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/home
Photo Credits: Collier County | Video: Naples 2Night Digital Magazine
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