On Aug. 26, 2024, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) began two road improvement projects on State Road (SR) 19 near Downtown Eustis. These projects include enhancements to improve roadway and safety conditions for drivers and pedestrians.
FDOT spokesperson Joe Callahan of the Communications Team said motorists can expect some traffic impacts, occasional lane closures and detours over the course of the two projects, which will run concurrently and are expected to be complete in fall 2025.
The $12.4 million projects are intended to improve safety between Stevens Avenue and County Road 452, according to FDOT, by upgrading multiple intersections within the SR 19 corridor and resurfacing the roadways. The road is split along this section, with the northbound portion known as Grove Street and the southbound portion known as Bay Street.
Improvements to the roadways include constructing raised intersections to reduce vehicle speed on Grove Street at Magnolia and Gottsche Avenues, and on Bay Street at Magnolia, MacDonald, and Clifford Avenues. Additional work includes reconstructing and extending curbs to promote safe turning speeds and reconstructing traffic signals at Orange Avenue and at Clifford Street.
The project will also add shared lane markers on Grove Street and Bay Street. These markers will denote a shared lane for cyclists and motorists. Upgraded lighting, drainage, landscaping, signs, striping, and pavement markings will be included. FDOT recently installed Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons and additional pedestrian crossing signage on both Grove and Bay Streets.
According to FDOT, construction activities are expected during the day and night. Traffic may also be shifted to allow crews to perform construction activities safely. Weekly closures and additional project information can be found on the project webpage at //www.cflroads.com/project/445297-1. Electronic message boards and other signage will help motorists navigate the work zone. Business and pedestrian access will be maintained.
The City of Eustis will notify residents of lane closures and detours on www.eustis.org and on the city’s social media pages throughout the project.
City of Eustis
