The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) announced plans to invest $10.6 million in significant safety improvements along a 5½-mile stretch of State Road A1A in Indian River County. Scheduled to begin in spring 2027, the project aims to enhance cyclist safety and pedestrian infrastructure, with completion anticipated by summer 2029.
Key Safety Improvements Planned for SR A1A
The project, spanning from St. Lucie County northward to Jasmine Lane, includes several critical safety upgrades:
- Installation of 6-foot bike lanes on both sides of the road
- Complete repaving and restriping of the roadway
- Construction of a new sidewalk along the east side of the road
- Modifications to curb ramps for improved accessibility
- Enhanced drainage systems
- Upgraded pedestrian signals and signage
According to FDOT Project Manager Maria Formoso, construction will be phased strategically to minimize congestion, particularly near St. Edward’s School. Lane closures, if necessary, will occur during low-traffic periods, with flaggers managing traffic flow to prevent significant delays.
Cyclist Community Advocates for Wider Bike Lanes
During a recent public input session, local cyclists strongly advocated for expanded bike lanes. Hal Lambert, the director of safety and advocacy for Bike Walk Indian River County, emphasized the necessity of creating a continuous 7-foot bike lane from county line to county line.
“A1A is one of the most heavily used roads in the county for cyclists,” Lambert stated. “Seven-foot lanes are considerably safer than the proposed 6-foot lanes. FDOT is already installing seven-foot lanes elsewhere in the county; this section should not be an exception.”
Local resident Kimberlee Stiles suggested an alternative solution: eliminating the proposed east-side sidewalk to widen the bike lanes. “With an existing sidewalk already on the west side, widening the bike lane into the sidewalk area and adding automated crosswalks could significantly enhance safety,” she noted.
Addressing Recent Cycling Fatalities
Safety concerns are especially pressing following recent cyclist fatalities. Most recently, on March 7, a 57-year-old cyclist was fatally struck on Eighth Street, an area lacking dedicated bike lanes. Previously, in May 2021, 63-year-old Carl Cutler was killed while cycling on a narrow 4-foot shoulder near Sebastian Inlet State Park.
Lambert stressed the importance of proactive safety measures: “We attend these meetings to advocate for cyclist safety. Our ultimate goal is zero fatalities, particularly as our population grows and traffic increases.”
FDOT remains open to public feedback, Formoso confirmed. “We have heard the public’s suggestions and will assess their feasibility. Since we are still in the design phase, adjustments can be considered,” she explained.
For additional information on bicycle safety guidelines and statistics, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Answers to Common Questions About SR A1A Safety Upgrades
When will the SR A1A safety upgrades begin?
Construction is scheduled to start in spring 2027 and conclude by summer 2029.
What specific safety features are planned?
FDOT plans include new bike lanes, sidewalks, improved drainage, pedestrian signals, and upgraded signage.
Why are cyclists requesting wider bike lanes?
Cyclists argue that 7-foot lanes provide significantly greater safety compared to the initially proposed 6-foot lanes.
Will construction affect local traffic?
Construction will be phased to minimize disruptions, with lane closures scheduled during low-traffic periods and managed by flaggers.
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