In the Sunshine State, Florida's Turnpike Enterprise (FTE) is overseeing a $254.5 million effort that will expand Central Polk Parkway. The project involves construction of a new 4-lane tolled roadway extending approximately 6.5 mi. from Polk Parkway/S.R. 570 near Winter Lake Road/S.R. 540 to U.S. 17/S.R. 35.
"Central Polk Parkway represents a major step forward in delivering a more reliable, efficient transportation network for one of Florida's fastest-growing regions," Fiorella Teodista, FTE communications outreach coordinator, told Construction Equipment Guide. "Through innovative construction approaches and strong coordination, we are advancing this project ahead of schedule, while maintaining a focus on safety and quality."
The goal is to ease congestion, while providing a more direct north-south route. Safety features include skid-resistant pavement, new guardrails, wrong-way driver detection and highly reflective signage and markings.
"Polk County continues to experience rapid population growth, and this project is designed to address increasing travel demand by providing a new, more reliable route for both daily commuters and freight traffic," said Teodista. "Central Polk Parkway will enhance north-south connectivity, reduce congestion on local roadways and Interstate 4 and support regional commerce by improving the efficient movement of goods. It also strengthens emergency evacuation routes and supports long-term development in the region."
FTE photo
Construction began in March 2023 and is expected to be completed in mid to late 2027. According to Teodista, the project is progressing well, with major milestones already achieved.
Early work has included extensive clearing and grubbing, as well as the successful relocation and enhancement of the Marshall Hampton Reserve Trailhead, providing improved community access and amenities. Today, much of the roadway alignment is in place, and bridge construction is advancing steadily.
"This project is being delivered in phases to support efficient construction sequencing and accelerated delivery," said Teodista. "By modifying the maintenance of traffic approach and constructing key elements in a single phase where feasible, the project team reduced the need for temporary infrastructure and minimized impacts to the traveling public."
Construction activities include bridge deck placements, roadway grading, drainage installation, base and asphalt paving and installation of lighting, signage and guardrail. Remaining work will focus on completing bridge structures, final roadway surfaces and finishing elements such as striping and landscaping.
Construction involves significant earthwork, including approximately 3.3 million cu. yds. of embankment, along with surcharge embankment, stabilization and base construction. Crews are using a wide range of heavy equipment, including excavators, bulldozers, graders, cranes, loaders, rollers and pavers. Automated machine guidance systems also are being used to improve grading accuracy and efficiency, which has been especially valuable given the scale of excavation and dirt work required.
Teodista explained why a new interchange at U.S. 17 is a key component of the project.
"It includes the construction of ramps, bridge structure and improvements along U.S. 17, including median reconstruction and the addition of signalized intersections to provide safe and efficient access. Constructing these intersections involves installation of underground conduit and wiring, signal poles and a central controller cabinet, followed by coordination with the local utility provider for power connection and system testing."
Understandably, safety remains a top priority for crews. Wrong-way driving detection technology is being installed at ramps to help prevent serious crashes by alerting drivers and notifying traffic management teams in real time.
FTE photo
Because much of the project is being constructed on a new alignment, impacts to existing traffic have been limited. Where necessary, lane closures are scheduled during off-peak hours to reduce disruptions. The project team continues to coordinate closely with local partners and keep the public informed through ongoing outreach efforts.
"Feedback from the community has been largely positive," said Teodista. "Many have expressed anticipation for reduced congestion and improved travel conditions."
Challenges on the project include maintaining safe traffic operations, coordinating large-scale bridge construction and earthwork and managing Florida's weather conditions. Heavy rains and hurricane events can affect concrete placement and paving, requiring careful planning and scheduling adjustments.
To minimize impacts on nearby residents and businesses, measures are in place to manage noise, lighting, vibration and dust, particularly during nighttime operations. Night work typically includes activities such as bridge work, paving and lane adjustments that are safer or more efficient to perform outside of peak travel times.
Teodista stressed that Central Polk Parkway represents a significant investment in the region's transportation network.
"Once complete, it will provide a more direct and dependable route for motorists. It will improve traffic flow across the area, and support continued economic growth in Polk County and Central Florida." CEG
