FDOT proposes $516 million interchange to ease Land O' Lakes traffic

State transportation officials aim to reduce congestion and improve evacuation route at SR 54 and US 41 intersection

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is recommending a $516 million diverging diamond interchange where State Road 54 meets U.S. 41 in Land O' Lakes. The goal is to ease heavy daily congestion and improve this key evacuation route. A formal study is underway, and public comments are open online through February 18th, but right-of-way purchases affecting nearby homes and businesses aren't expected until 2028-2030, with no construction funding yet secured.

Why it matters

The proposed interchange project aims to address long-standing traffic issues at one of Land O' Lakes' busiest intersections. As a major evacuation route, improving the flow of traffic at this location could have significant public safety benefits for the community. However, the project's timeline and potential impact on nearby properties have raised concerns that will need to be addressed.

The details

FDOT is recommending a diverging diamond interchange design, which would reconfigure the intersection to allow traffic to temporarily cross to the left side of the road, improving traffic flow and reducing the number of traffic signals needed. The $516 million price tag would cover land acquisition, design, and construction costs, but funding has not yet been secured. A public comment period is open through February 18th, and right-of-way purchases that could affect nearby homes and businesses are not expected until 2028-2030, with no construction timeline determined.

  • FDOT has initiated a formal study of the proposed interchange project.
  • The public comment period for the project is open online through February 18, 2026.
  • Right-of-way purchases that could impact nearby properties are not expected until 2028-2030.
  • No construction funding has been secured for the project at this time.

The players

Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT)

The state agency responsible for transportation infrastructure planning and development in Florida.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This proposed interchange project highlights the ongoing challenges of managing traffic congestion and improving evacuation routes in rapidly growing communities like Land O' Lakes. While the potential benefits are clear, the project's timeline and impact on nearby properties will need to be carefully considered by local residents and officials.