The following column is the Road Watch report for Okeechobee County for the week beginning Sunday, May 4, provided by the Florida Department of Transportation.

Motorists are reminded to wear safety belts and drive with caution, courtesy, common sense, and patience as they travel through work zones. Remember, speeding fines are doubled in work zones.

SR 70 at Kissimmee River Bridge and Popash Slough Bridge: (Construction Project) Crews will begin bridge repair and rehabilitation work next week on SR 70 at the Kissimmee River Bridge and Popash Slough Bridge.

·       Intermittent lane closures will occur throughout the project, with traffic reduced to one lane as needed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

·       Motorists should be aware of changing traffic patterns, heavy equipment, and workers present in the construction zone.

·       Use caution when traveling through the area and obey posted signage and flagging operations.

Estimated project completion is summer 2025.

Districtwide Movable Bridges (Okeechobee County): (Construction Project) The Florida Department of Transportation is installing Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) at the US 41/US 98 (SR 700) Taylor Creek Bridge in Okeechobee County. This project includes the installation of pedestrian/bicycle detection systems, conduits and electrical components, and connection to bridge tender buildings.

·       Bridge work is anticipated to take 3-4 weeks to complete construction.

·       Motorists are advised that there will be intermittent sidewalk and lane closures throughout the duration of construction.

·       Motorist should expect lane closures during the nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.

·       Motorists are advised to use caution in the construction zone.

Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway. Estimated completion of construction is in October 2025.

As a reminder, travelers can visit www.FL511.com or dial “511” from their phone to learn about traffic conditions on major roadways across the state.