FDOT projects I-75 will fail by 2024 due to spike in drivers; here’s what’s being done

If you think I-75’s crowded now, just wait a few years. Transportation officials expect the interstate to become even busier in Lee County, with thousands of more drivers hitting the road every day by 2024.

Officials say I-75 may turn into a 10-lane highway with four express toll lanes, but that’s still a ways away.

However, there is work being done in the near future to help prevent the I-75 system from failing us.

Florida Department of Transportation realizes everyone’s frustrations. In fact, they say the current system we have in place will fail by 2024 due to a projected spike in the amount of drivers using I-75 every day.

Lee County resident Joe Callahan says preparedness is key, “They need to get ready for it because as bad as you think of the problems are now, they’re only going to be exacerbated.”

MORE: FDOT discusses new construction for Colonial intersection

Right now, FDOT is doing a massive traffic study from Bayshore Road in Lee County all the way down to Collier Boulevard in Collier County.

They’re looking to see what changes are needed to improve the traffic flow which is an effort that pleases many, like Eric Sonnet, “It’s very important because the transportation system in lee county are compared to the number of cars really outdated ”

County leaders say improvements are needed because the county just keeps on growing.

Some other changes we could see are more turning lanes added to on ramps. And I-75 will see its first Diverging Diamond intersection on Colonial Boulevard later this year.