FDOT’s John Ringling Causeway (Bird Key to Sunset Drive) Project Update Week of January 18 – 24
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.
RoadWatch Update for the Week of January 18-24, 2026
This week’s work will consist of:
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Mobilize construction equipment, including delivery of machinery and materials.
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Install Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) signs and devices.
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Install temporary pedestrian paths around the work zone. Please use designated paths and follow posted detour signs.
- Clear within the right of way and install erosion-control devices.
Lane closures at the S.R. 789 and Bird Key intersection on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. Single inside-lane closures will be in place in both the eastbound and westbound directions.
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.
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
