FDOT completes $143M revamp of I-75 and US-301 interchange

I-75 at U.S. 301 interchange complete

Bradenton commuters should see a change in drive time and congestion as FDOT completes the I-75 at U.S. 301 interchange project. FOX 13’s Mariah Harrison reports.

BRADENTON, Fla - Drivers traveling through the I-75 and U.S. 301 interchange near Ellenton are finally seeing a smoother commute. 

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has officially completed a multi-year, $143 million improvement project designed to relieve one of the region’s most congested areas.

What we know:

The project included new bridges over the river, additional lanes on I-75, and wider entrance and exit ramps connecting to U.S. 301. 

FDOT officials say the changes are aimed at improving traffic flow, reducing crashes, and increasing overall safety for drivers.

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"These upgrades are going to make a big difference for anyone who travels this stretch daily," said Alex Ruiz, Interstate Construction Manager for FDOT.

Officials estimate that about 50,000 drivers commute through the interchange every day — a number expected to grow as the area continues to develop.

Courtesy: FDOT

What's next:

With the Ellenton interchange complete, FDOT is already turning its attention to another major traffic choke point; Fruitville Road.

Plans are underway to replace the current interchange with a diverging diamond design, a configuration intended to move vehicles more efficiently and reduce delays during peak travel hours.