Drivers who use 63rd Avenue East to reach U.S. 301 or Tuttle Avenue should plan for lane closures and shifting traffic patterns starting Monday, Aug. 10, when Manatee County begins the dual-lane widening phase of its $65.6 million road improvement project.

The work runs through Friday, Nov. 27, covering a 1.12-mile stretch that connects U.S. 301 to Tuttle Avenue through Manatee County's industrial and employment center. The corridor serves commuters across the broader Lakewood Ranch and east Manatee area.

New Lanes, Signals and Bike Paths Coming to the Corridor

When finished, 63rd Avenue East will expand from two lanes to four, adding capacity for an estimated 10,000 vehicles per day. Beyond the lane widening, the project includes a center turn lane west of Prospect Road, a raised median east of Prospect Road, new traffic signals at 33rd Street and Tuttle Avenue, buffered bicycle lanes, sidewalks on both sides, and street lighting.

Manatee County's Public Works Department says access to homes and businesses along the corridor will be maintained throughout construction.

Utility Work Began in July; Widening Marks a New, More Disruptive Stage

The Aug. 10 closures aren't the project's first disruption — utility crews have been working along the corridor since mid-July.

Initial construction on the project began Tuesday, July 14, with underground utility relocations near Prospect Road. County commissioners approved the project June 16, and Manatee County's Public Works Department announced the start of work July 8. The Aug. 10 phase marks the more disruptive dual-lane widening, drainage and utility work.

The full project is expected to take approximately two years, extending well beyond the November end date for this phase.

District 4 Commissioner Mike Rahn called the project "a major investment in the future of Manatee County's transportation network" in a July 8 county press release, saying the improvements will make the corridor safer for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists while increasing capacity.

Impact Fees and Sales Tax Revenue Cover the $65.6 Million Price Tag

The $65,633,047 budget draws from impact fees, infrastructure sales tax funds and other prior funding through the county's Capital Improvement Program, according to the Bradenton Herald. The project is one of Manatee County's "Big 6" priority transportation investments aimed at reducing congestion and supporting growth.

The widening also builds on the recently completed Pearce Drain South Flood Mitigation Project, which added drainage capacity for 63rd Avenue East and nearby neighborhoods that have experienced flooding.

Expect Rolling Lane Closures and Delays Through Late November

Manatee County advises motorists to expect temporary lane closures, shifting traffic patterns and periodic delays. The county has not published specific alternate route recommendations.

Residents can track construction phases and traffic changes at the official project website.