The East Canal Road widening RESTORE grant project from Highway 161 to Wilson Boulevard began in September 2022 and continues to progress.
During the remaining weeks in April, the roundabout work is expected to be complete and the eastbound lane paved.
Prior to early July, work to the west of the roundabout is expected to be complete, weather permitting, with the exception of the concrete median in the center of that section of roadway.
Following Memorial Day, the concrete median west of the roundabout will be complete as well as the paving of the additional lane east of the roundabout.
This roughly 1.4-mile section of Canal Road is being expanded to three lanes to allow for a middle turn lane. The roundabout is being constructed near the public library and a 10-foot multi-use path will be created on the north side of the road between Callaway Drive and Wilson Boulevard.
Throughout the project, the speed limit will be 25 mph in the construction zone and will continue to be strictly enforced for the safety of everyone. At present, the 25 mph zone extends from State Hwy. 161 to just east of Bay Circle, near The Keg (see map).
Thompson Engineering is the project engineer and John G. Walton Construction Company, Inc. was awarded the construction contract in the amount of $7.36 million. The majority of the cost for this project will be paid for with post-BP oil spill Resources and Ecosystem Sustainability, Tourism Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act of 2012 (RESTORE Act) funds. The RESTORE grant will cover $5.9 million.
Project completion is anticipated to be prior to spring of 2024.