As we roll into March, residents and visitors in Pinellas County should brace themselves for some significant traffic disruptions. From Sunday, March 1, to Saturday, March 7, 2026, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will be conducting various roadwork projects that could impact your travel plans. Whether you’re heading to the beach or just commuting to work, it’s essential to stay updated on the affected routes.
The primary roads affected during this period include I-275, US 19, Gandy Boulevard, I-175, SR 60 (Gulf to Bay Boulevard), SR 586 (Curlew Road), and the 62nd Avenue S Bridge. Nightly closures on I-175 will occur from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM, Sunday through Thursday, and daytime work will be from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. On I-275, you can expect delays between 38th Avenue North and Roosevelt Boulevard, with nighttime closures from 8:30 PM to 6:00 AM. Notably, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge will also have nighttime closures from Monday to Thursday between 8:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Detailed Road Closures and Projects
US 19 will see significant disruptions, with closures from MLK Jr. Drive to Tampa Road and from Main Street to Curlew Road during nighttime hours. Heavy impacts are expected on Alternate US 19, particularly at Tyrone Boulevard, which will face a 24-hour closure between 73rd Street N and 68th Street N until March 2. In addition, ongoing long-term projects on SR 60 and SR 586 will result in restricted traffic around the clock.
The 62nd Avenue S Bridge over Maximo Channel is also undergoing improvements, which will affect the number of lanes available until summer 2026. Expect a temporary traffic signal to help manage the flow. During the day, active roadwork will occur on SR 687 (4th Street North), Ulmerton Road, and Gandy Boulevard from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM throughout the week.
Upcoming Construction Projects
Looking ahead, several exciting new construction projects are on the horizon. The SR 686/Roosevelt Boulevard (CR 296 Connector) at 49th Street North and the East-West 118th Avenue Expressway are two major projects planned for 2023. Additionally, there are roadway improvements on US-19/SR-55, and bridge replacements like the I-275/SR 93/Howard Frankland Bridge are scheduled for 2024.
For those interested in pedestrian infrastructure, sidewalk construction along Ulmerton Road to East Bay Drive and the Courtney Campbell Causeway Trail Overpass at SR 60 will begin in 2023. The addition of express lanes on I-275 south of SR 694/Gandy Boulevard is also part of the ongoing effort to improve traffic flow in the area. Safety improvements are slated for 4th Street North and South, which will enhance the driving experience for everyone.
Stay Informed with FL511
In light of these changes, it’s more important than ever to stay informed. The official source for traffic and travel information in Florida is FL511, provided by the FDOT. This system offers real-time updates on traffic congestion, accidents, roadwork, and travel times on highways and major routes. Accessible via a mobile app, website, and social media, FL511 aims to keep you updated and make your travels as smooth as possible.
Drivers are encouraged to check the FL511 app or the interactive map on FL511.com before heading out. With features like live camera feeds, you can keep an eye on road conditions and avoid any unexpected delays. Remember, it’s always best to plan your route ahead of time!
As always, we recommend being patient and allowing extra time for your travels during this busy roadwork period. Stay safe and drive carefully!