BROOKSVILLE - Beginning June 14 and continuing for the next 13 months, drivers can expect delays on heavily traveled Mariner Boulevard.
But by July 2005, the final two-lane stretch of Mariner, between Elgin Boulevard and Augustine Road, will be widened to four lanes, completing an expansion begun in 1990. "This will provide better movement," said Chris Wert, an engineering manager with the county Engineering Department. "We are really excited to get started and see this completed."
Today, between 4 and 6:30 p.m., a public meeting will be held on the widening project at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 5030 Mariner Boulevard in Spring Hill. County staff members will be in attendance to explain the project and answer questions.
Widening the 1.4-mile stretch of Mariner to four lanes and a center dual left turn lane will cost $3-million. Another $700,000 will be spent to improve utility infrastructure along the stretch. Money for the project comes from impact fees.
Wert said that during the widening, there will be a lot of heavy equipment in the area. Traffic will shift between the northbound and southbound sides of Mariner, but there will be no side street detours.
Those seeking additional information may call the Engineering Department at (352) 754-4475.
