FDOT’s John Ringling Causeway (Bird Key to Sunset Drive) Project Update Week of August 31st – Sunset Temporary 60 Day Road Closure
NOTICE:
Sunset Drive will be temporarily closed at the Ritz Entrance off Gulfstream Avenue (S.R. 789) to accommodate driveway reconstruction and related roadway improvements. The closure is anticipated to remain in place for approximately 60 days.
RoadWatch Update for the Week of August 31st
This week’s work will consist of:
Delivery of machinery and materials
Roadway widening
Concrete curb and sidewalk installation
- Drainage placement
- Median barrier wall installation
Light pole installation
For questions or more information about the SR 789 improvements, please contact:
Alice Ramos
Community Outreach Manager
Valerin Group (on behalf of FDOT)
Tel: 863-797-7202
Email: alice.ramos@dot.state.fl.us
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) began construction on S.R. 789 from Bird Key Drive to Sunset Drive on December 28, 2025. The project will include the addition of dedicated bicycle and transit lanes on the bridge, drainage upgrades, and raising the seawall cap near Sunset Drive. Other project activities include resurfacing the roadway throughout the project corridor and the installation of new traffic signals at the intersections of Sunset Drive, Golden Gate Drive, and Bird Key Drive.
Pedestrians should use designated paths and follow posted detour signs.
Bike lanes are closed due to construction. Cyclists should follow the posted detour.
Lane closures will be in place during various phases of the project. Initial pre-phase work involves building a temporary roadway for use during subsequent phases. This work will not impact existing travel lane configuration.
Construction will primarily take place during daytime hours, with occasional nighttime work. Expect noise from backup alarms, construction equipment, pumps, and power tools during daytime and nighttime operations.
During construction, the speed limit on Gulfstream Avenue and John Ringling Causeway/S.R. 789 will be reduced to 35 mph. Speeding fines are doubled in the construction zone when workers are present.
Motorists are urged to drive cautiously and watch for workers, construction vehicles, pickup trucks, and other equipment entering or exiting travel lanes.
