OCALA, FL (352today.com) – How do you relieve congestion – especially in a fast-growing community like Marion County? One answer: widen SW 80th Avenue.

Project Overview

The plan to expand SW 80th Ave. from one lane in each direction to two lanes with a grassy median has been in development for over a decade. The widened corridor will better accommodate traffic from surrounding communities like On Top of the World, Indigo East, Calesa, and Del Webb Stone Creek. A multi-purpose path will be added to the west side of the road and a sidewalk to the east.

Three-Phase Road Widening

The project will unfold in three phases and cover a stretch from SW 80th Street to north of US 27, tying into CR 225A and extending east to SW 49th Ave and the I-75 Buc-ee’s interchange.

  • Phase 1: SW 80th St. to West Port High School
  • Phase 2: West Port High to SR 40
  • Phase 3: SR 40 to roughly half a mile north of US 27
A white placard sign on top of a white rectangular sign, with green trees and blue sky with white clouds in the background.
The Penny Sales Tax will help pay for the three-phase project on SW 80th Ave.
Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today

Timeline and Construction Details

Phase 1 is expected to last 18 to 24 months. Marion County is finalizing right-of-way acquisition and working through permitting with the water management district. Construction could begin as early as December 2025, but more likely in January 2026. Most construction is scheduled for nighttime to reduce traffic disruptions.

A white sign with lettering between two brown colored standards, with a small rectangular sign with letters and numbers, with a blue sky with clouds and a green tree in the background.
The first phase of the project will go from SW 80th St. to West Port High School.
Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today

Traffic Impacts and Mitigation

Detailed detour routes are being planned to maintain traffic flow during construction. Some commuter inconvenience is expected, but the county aims to minimize disruptions.

Roundabout Approved

A roundabout is planned at SW 38th St. and SW 80th Ave. The Marion County Board of County Commissioners approved the roundabout based on recommendations from staff and consultants, who determined it was the most effective traffic solution for the intersection.

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