FDOT’s John Ringling Causeway (Bird Key to Sunset Drive) Project Update Week of November 1st
RoadWatch Update for the Week of November 1st
This week’s work will consist of:
- Delivering machinery and materials as needed.
- Installing concrete curb and sidewalk along the north side of the Sunset Drive intersection.
- Installing drainage pipes and structures along the north side of Bird Key Drive, then transitioning to the south side of Sunset Drive.
- Installing pull boxes and wiring for traffic signals at the Sunset Drive and Bird Key Drive intersections.
- Installing traffic signal mast arms at the Bird Key Drive intersection.
- Removing existing mast arm drilled shafts at the Sunset Drive intersection.
- Installing pull boxes and wiring for roadway lighting along both sides of the road throughout the project limits.
- Preparing to begin seawall cap replacement along the south side of the roadway, east of Golden Gate Point.
- Preparing to begin roadway widening along the south side of Sunset Drive.
- Milling and paving operations will resume at a later date.
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.
