Okaloosa County tours progress on Southwest Crestview Bypass construction project

Under the bright lights of Okaloosa County's city hall, officials gathered to discuss the progress of the Southwest Crestview Bypass Construction Project, a vital infrastructure initiative aimed at improving local traffic flow. Jason Autry, head of the public works department, led a recent tour of the construction site, showcasing significant advancements that promise to enhance connectivity in the region.

The tour began on Fallen Heroes Way, where Autry highlighted the newly constructed two-lane roads that connect Highway 85 to the bypass. Accompanied by a sidewalk and a walking path, the area is taking shape as a welcoming thoroughfare for both vehicles and pedestrians. The group then moved to the interchange where the Florida Department of Transportation is working diligently on a new connection to Interstate 10. Autry noted that the girders are already in place, with plans to soon add the cap and deck, paving the way for the new interchange.

At the northern end of the project, the excitement was palpable as officials stood atop a bridge currently under construction. With girders being positioned and the bridge deck nearing completion, the project is on track to reach its final stages. Autry expressed optimism, stating that the goal is to complete the entire bypass by the end of this year, although he acknowledged that significant work remains.

Hannah, a member of the infrastructure surtax committee, joined the tour and shared her enthusiasm for the project. She thanked the citizens of Okaloosa County for their trust in the committee's oversight of the voter-approved surtax that partially funds the bypass. "It's amazing to see these projects come to life," she remarked, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in local infrastructure development.

As the tour concluded, the officials left with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to continue their work on the Southwest Crestview Bypass, a project that promises to reshape the transportation landscape of Okaloosa County for years to come.