FDOT presents preferred direct‑connection interchange design for Turnpike–I‑95 near Bridge Road; public hearings planned

Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise presented plans Tuesday for a new direct‑connection interchange linking Interstate 95 and Florida’s Turnpike near Bridge Road, describing a preferred alternative and a public‑outreach schedule for a Project Development & Environment (PD&E) study.

The study’s stated goals are to improve system linkage between the two limited‑access facilities, enhance safety, and improve emergency response and evacuation routes. Turnpike staff said the preferred alternative provides northbound‑to‑northbound and southbound‑to‑southbound system‑to‑system movements and avoids costly modifications to the existing I‑95/Bridge Road ramps.

Project manager Jaslyn Haywood explained the study area extends about two miles north and south of Bridge Road and said the preferred alternative was selected after public meetings in 2024 and a value‑engineering study. Turnpike staff said the interchange is expected to handle roughly 26,400 vehicles per day and would reduce crossover traffic at nearby interchanges — easing load on the Martin Highway/turnpike crossover and the Indiantown Road interchanges in Palm Beach County, they said.

Turnpike and consultant staff described a draft project schedule and funding outlook: the project is now in PD&E; design funding is being sought in the FDOT five‑year work program (staff identified design funding targeted for FY 2031 under current planning); right‑of‑way acquisition and construction are later phases, and project delivery could extend a decade or more, depending on funding. The Turnpike noted the construction cost estimate for the preferred alternative plus about two miles of Turnpike widening is approximately $309 million under current estimates.

FDOT staff said some movements would not be open to the general public immediately but would be available to emergency responders; they said they coordinated those features with Martin County Fire & Rescue. A noise study and other technical reports are underway and will be posted at least 21 days before the public hearing.

Turnpike representatives said they held virtual and in‑person informational meetings in 2024 (with limited attendance) and invited more public input at two public hearings planned for October (virtual and in‑person). They said outreach includes mailed notices, social media, geofencing to reach users, and press releases; a project website and materials are available for review.

County commissioners and residents asked about timing, traffic, potential right‑of‑way impacts and visual effects. Commissioners noted the project’s long schedule — design funding is not currently programmed until the later work‑program years — and that construction would likely be many years away even if funding is secured. A nearby landowner questioned right‑of‑way and noise impacts and expressed concern that interchange ramps could change the character of the county entrance. Turnpike staff said they are reviewing wildlife crossings and coordinating with county staff and agencies. Public hearings will provide an opportunity for further comment.