OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Board of County Commissioners will be holding a workshop on Oct. 7, 2025, in coordination with the Florida Department of Transportation, to advance the Marion Oaks Extension Project.

The workshop provides the two entities with the opportunity to advance the plan from the preliminary project phase development and environmental study phase.

The extension project will create a 4-lane corridor by widening the existing 2-lane roads, construction of 4-lane roads and construction of a bridge over I-75. The new 4-lane road will connect SW 49th Ave. in Marion Oaks to SW Hwy. 475.

The project development and environmental study process includes an environmental analysis, engineering evaluations, public input and coordination with state and federal agencies.

A presentation will be made by staff and the consultant team at the workshop, as part of the FDOT’s involvement process, summarizing the study’s purpose, needs, alternatives, analysis, environmental consideration, and what the next steps should be prior to the project advancing forward.

The materials regarding the project are proposed to be presented at a public hearing that has been scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., and will be conducted at the Marion Oaks Community Center.

Engineering considerations for the project include traffic, drainage and right-of-way.

The environmental considerations include natural resources, wetlands, noise, social impacts and contamination.

Why is the project necessary? 

It will provide a connection between Marion Oaks and The Villages via an overpass over I-75. The project will also widen the existing roadway to meet future traffic demands from the overpass connection, which was identified as a need in the Long Range Traffic Plan. The FDOT’s Long Range Traffic Plan incorporates its vision for meeting traffic needs over the next 25 years.

Alternatives Evaluation 

  • Natural and physical impacts
  • Social and cultural impacts
  • Engineering impacts
  • Property impacts
  • Public impacts
  • Costs