North Howard Avenue is still a no-go between West Kennedy Boulevard and West Fig Street. You're going to have to wait until August 9 to use that stretch again, thanks to some pesky construction delays caused by bad weather. According to a Hillsborough County news release, crews are working hard to wrap up a resurfacing project aimed at boosting transportation mobility and safety in the area.
The closure, which must remain in place for workers to safely complete full-depth reconstruction and new paving, means detours will continue to be a part of daily life for those navigating the zone. Signs around the work site should help to quickly reroute any motorists caught off-guard by the closure.
It's not just the road that's getting an upgrade. The county's facelift includes adding things like rectangular rapid-flashing beacons (RRFBs), dropped speed limits, and better sidewalks, plus fresh signs and pavement markings to make it clearer where you're supposed to go. These changes are slated for completion in August this year, barring any more delays by Mother Nature.
New RRFBs are getting installed at multiple intersections, including West Gray, Cass, Spruce, Cherry, Palmetto, and Beach Streets, designed to help folks on foot or wheels to move safely across busy streets. Tampa city officials have called to reduce the speed limit in the area from 40 to 35 mph, a request that's part of the broader safety improvement efforts.
