FDOT Plans Improvements along SR 789 (Bird Key to Sunset Drive) beginning early 2026
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced project plans for upcoming improvements along SR 789 (Bird Key to Sunset Drive). Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2026 and be completed by early 2027.
Key Improvements:
- Extension of bus-only lanes
- Sidewalk-level bicycle lanes at Bird Key Drive and Sunset Drive intersections
- Dedicated bicycle signals
- Drainage upgrades at Sunset Drive and Bird Key Drive intersections
- Sunset Drive area: raising roadway approximately 1 foot on average
- Bird Key Drive area: raising roadway approximately 8 inches on average
- Raising the seawall cap near Sunset Drive by 2 feet to match the adjacent seawall near 660 Golden Gate Point
- Shorter pedestrian crossing distances at intersections
- Tighter turning radii to slow right-turning vehicles
Lane Closures: Lane closures are anticipated during construction. The current restrictions are as follows:
- Weekend lane closures: 9:00 PM – 7:00 AM
- Weekday lane closures within 600 ft of intersections: 7:00 PM – 9:00 AM
- Weekday open-road lane closures (not near intersections): 9:00 PM – 7:00 AM
- Speed limits during construction: remain 35 MPH on both Gulfstream Ave. and John Ringling Causeway (SR 789).
Landscape Coordination Plan: Separately, our Parks & Recreation Department is coordinating with FDOT on the approved relocation of plantings along Gulfstream/Sunset to the St. Armands Circle area. This work is expected to begin soon and be completed by the end of the year.
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
