MARION COUNTY, FL (352today) – The Marion County Office of the County Engineer today presented an update on the county’s substantial investment in its road network, announcing significant progress on multiple projects that will improve safety, mobility, and connectivity across the community.

With approximately $67.2 million allocated for roadway projects this fiscal year, which began Oct. 1, the county is moving forward on critical infrastructure upgrades to support continued growth and enhance the daily travel experience for residents, visitors, and commercial drivers.

Addressing 66th Bridge overpass

Marion County is prioritizing safety improvements at the 66th Bridge overpass, which has been struck multiple times in recent years. The Office of the County Engineer is working with the Florida Department of Transportation to finalize plans for a temporary closure that will allow the bridge to be raised to a safer height. The closure is anticipated within the next six months, after SW 49th Avenue Road is connected between SW 66th Street and the existing flyover roadway (SW 42nd Street/43rd Street Road).

To limit disruptions during this work, the county anticipates opening the SW 49th/40th Avenue Road corridor within the next four months. Additional traffic plans, clear signage, and timely public updates will help keep motorists informed and support a smooth detour while the project moves forward.

Key project highlights and updates

Expanding capacity and connectivity

Several high-profile expansions and new roadway projects are under way or advancing toward construction:

  • NW 49th and 35th Street, phase 3 (new 4-lane road): Design plans for this important east-west connector are 90 percent complete, with final plans expected this month. Right-of-way offers have been submitted for all 24 required properties.
  • SW 49th and 40th Avenue, phase 1 (new 4-lane road): This new corridor from SW 66th Street to SW 43rd Street Road is showing steady progress, with curb and gutter work 70 percent complete and asphalt work 45 percent complete. The new traffic signal at SW 43rd Street Road is pending power service activation.
  • SW 80th Avenue, segment 1 (add 2 lanes): The notice to proceed for phase 1A construction is expected the first week of January 2026. Design plans for phase 1B are nearly complete at 80 percent.
  • Marion Oaks Manor Extension (add 2 lanes and I-75 overpass): A well-attended community meeting on Oct. 21 brought out 160 residents. The required project development and environment study is expected to be completed in late 2026.

Intersection safety and flow improvements

Several intersection projects that aim to improve traffic movement at busy locations are also progressing:

  • State Road 40 at NW and SW 80th Avenue intersection (add lanes and reconstruct signal): A notice to proceed is expected in early December 2025.
  • SW 27th Avenue (County Road 475A) roundabout at SW 66th Street: Design plans are 90 percent complete. Utility coordination is nearing completion with Duke Energy and Ocala Electric. Right-of-way offers have been submitted for all affected properties.

Resurfacing and maintenance

Marion County continues its strong commitment to maintaining existing roadways:

  • County Road 316 resurfacing and shoulder widening: A notice to proceed was issued in October, with completion expected in May 2026.
  • County Road 484 at Marion Oaks Boulevard: Turn lane additions and signal modifications are now complete, providing immediate improvements in traffic flow.

Looking ahead

The County Engineer’s office is coordinating closely with state, city, and federal partners on several complex future projects. This includes the SW 38th and 40th Street expansion near the airport and a new segment of SW 80th Avenue, which will begin following the design contract execution approved in October. Marion County remains committed to strategic, long-term investments that strengthen the county’s transportation network and support the safety and mobility of all who travel through the community.