Alachua County Today

Road and Lane Closures for Dec. 31, 2011-Jan. 6, 2012

  LAKE CITY:  The following is a list of roadwork underway by the FDOT that may impact traffic. All construction projects (with the exception of those noted) will be suspended between Dec. 31 and Jan. 2, 2012 for the anticipated increase in holiday traffic.

 ALACHUA COUNTY

Archer Road (State Road 24) Daytime lane closures east of Southwest 34^th Street for eastbound traffic to repair concrete drainage inlets.

 Archer Road (State Road 24) Nighttime lane closures Tuesday through Thursday, 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. to resurface and modify medians between Southwest 44^th and Southwest 78^th Streets. No daytime lane closures expected.

 Archer Road (State Road 24) Nighttime lane closures at Southwest 40^th Avenue to extend the left turn lane.

 Interstate 75 Possible daytime lane closures at the northbound exit ramp to Newberry Road (State Road 26) as crews widen the ramp. The speed limit is reduced to 60 mph. Semi-trucks are allowed to use the northbound inside lane approaching the Newberry Road interchange. The sidewalk on the south side of the overpass between the northbound and southbound exit ramps remain closed. Pedestrians are directed to use the sidewalk on the north side of the road.

 Interstate 75 frontage road (April Boulevard) Daytime lane closures from US 441 to the end of the road to work on drainage and the shoulders for paving.

 Main Street (State Road 329) Daytime lane closures from Williston Road (State Road 331) to North Eighth Street to repaint the roadway markings.

 Newberry Road (State Road 26) Daytime lane closures at the intersection of Southwest 98^th Street for westbound traffic to repair concrete drainage inlets.

Southeast and Southwest 16^th Avenue (State Road 226) Daytime lane closures to repaint the roadway markings from Archer Road (State Road 24) to Williston Road (State Road 331).

 Southwest 13^th Street (US 441) Daytime lane closures south of Archer Road (State Road 24) to modify sidewalk and driveways on both sides of the road to make improvements for pedestrians and bicyclists. The work is being overseen by the Gainesville Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).

Southwest 34^th Street (State Road 121) Crews will be repainting the roadway lines between Williston Road (State Road 331) and West University Avenue (State Road 26) which is a moving operation.

 State Road 121 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from US 441 to the Union County line which is a moving operation.

State Road 235 Daytime lane closures between County Road 241 and Bradford County line for resurfacing.

 University Avenue (State Road 26) Daytime lane closures for eastbound traffic, Tuesday, in the 1700 block area for Gainesville Fire Rescue training.

 US 27/41 Daytime lane closures from the Levy County line to US 441 in High Springs to repaint the roadway markings.

 US 301 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines between the Bradford and Marion county lines which is a moving operation.

 US 301 Daytime lane closures south of Waldo to repair concrete drainage inlets.

 Waldo Road (State Road 24) Daytime lane closures just north of Northeast 39^th Avenue for construction of a driveway and a right turn lane.

 BAKER COUNTY

County Road 125 (Manntown Bridge) Daytime lane closures Tuesday through Friday to replace the bridge by installing piers for the new bridge foundation.  Upcoming: The Manntown Bridge is scheduled to be closed to all traffic beginning January 16 for four months for bridge replacement. Traffic will be detoured to Mud Lake Road.

 East Boulevard Possible daytime lane closures at the railroad crossing just south of US 90 in Macclenny to allow CSX Railroad to widen the crossing to provide sidewalks.

 Sixth Street (State Road 121) Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from US 90 to the Union County line which is a moving operation.

BRADFORD COUNTY

Call Street (State Road 230) Daytime lane closures around the 1500 block for roadside work.

US 301 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines between the Alachua and Clay county lines which is a moving operation.

CLAY COUNTY

County Road 315C Daytime lane closures between Christian Camp Road (County Road 214) and Blanding Boulevard (State Road 21) for seeding of grass shoulders.

COLUMBIA COUNTY

Interstate 10 Daytime and nighttime lane closures Tuesday through Thursday, to repave the on and off ramps at the US 41 and 441 interchanges. Also, possible lane closures for replacing the motorist aid call box pads and on drainage improvements on both sides of the interstate. The speed limit is reduced to 60 mph during lane closures. No lane closures allowed Friday (after 6 a.m.) through Sunday.

 

Interstate 75 Daytime and nighttime lane closures for northbound traffic north of the US 41/441 overpass in Ellisville for the final layer of asphalt. The speed limit is reduced to 60 mph during lane closures.

 

Northwest Leonia Way Daytime lane closures Tuesday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. under I-10 for both northbound and southbound traffic for routine bridge maintenance.

 

US 41/441 Daytime lane closures from US 90 to the Alachua County line to repaint the roadway markings.

 

US 90 Daytime lane closures between the Baker and Suwannee counties to repaint the roadway markings which is a moving operation.

 

GILCHRIST COUNTY

State Road 26 Possible daytime lane closures at Southeast 70^th Avenue, a mile west of the Alachua County line, to finish installation of the caution signal.

 

HAMILTON COUNTY

Interstate 75 Day and nighttime lane closures between US 129 (Exit 451) and State Road 6 (Exit 460) for replacing deficient asphalt and sealing the bridge joints on the Alapaha River Bridge and railroad overpass as well as placing the final roadway markings. The speed limit is reduced to 60 mph during lane closures.

Interstate 75 The southbound agricultural inspection station at mile marker 446 is closed until February 2012 while a new station is built.  All livestock is redirected to the FDOT weigh station at mile marker 451 which is north of the closed agricultural inspection station.

 

LEVY COUNTY

Alternate 27 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines between the Levy and Marion county lines which is a moving operation.

 

MADISON COUNTY

State Road 6 Daytime lane closures from US 90 to the Hamilton County line to trim trees.

State Road 53 Daytime lane closures from US 90 to the Georgia line to repair the asphalt.

State Road 145 Daytime lane closures starting Tuesday to finish the driveways impacted by the road resurfacing and to place sod on the shoulders between Hanson and the Georgia state line. Work will be underway this weekend.

 

US 90 Daytime lane closures from Greenville to the Jefferson County line to clean ditches.

 

US 90 Daytime lane closures at Country Kitchen Road for Progress Energy to construct a deceleration lane and upgrade their driveway.

 

SUWANNEE COUNTY

Interstate 10 Daytime lane closures Tuesday through Thursday between US 90 (Exit 275) and US 129 (Exit 283) to work on the shoulders and place guardrail in the median. The speed is reduced to 60 mph during lane closures. No lane closures allowed Friday through Sunday and lane closures are restricted to two miles.

 

US 90 Daytime lane closures between the Columbia and Madison county lines to repaint the roadway markings.

 

US 129 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from US 27 to the Suwannee River which is a moving operation.

 

TAYLOR COUNTY

US 27 Daytime lane closures from Jefferson Street to County Road 30 to make asphalt repairs.

US 98 Daytime lane closures for the construction of a temporary bridge across the Aucilla River at the Jefferson County line. No detours will be required for this project.

 

UNION COUNTY

State Road 100 Work continues on the multi-use trail that follows the old Norfolk Southern rail corridor adjacent to SR 100 from State Road 238 to County Road 237.

 

State Road 121 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines between the Alachua and Baker county lines which is a moving operation.

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Florida Park Service to celebrate new year with first day hikes

TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Florida Park Service will sponsor free, guided hikes in nine state parks on New Year’s Day as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states. America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012 at a state park close to home. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.

“We are excited to host First Day Hikes as part of this national effort to get people outdoors and into Florida’s award-winning state parks,” said DEP’s Florida Park Service Director Donald Forgione. “First Day Hikes are a great way to enjoy the Florida sunshine and burn off those extra holiday calories by starting off the New Year with an invigorating walk or hike in one of our beautiful state parks.”

America’s State Parks boast a variety of beautiful settings for year-round outdoor recreation, and each First Day Hike will offer an opportunity to explore the unique natural and cultural treasures close to home. From California to Maine, hikers can climb hills and mountain tops, walk along ponds and beaches, and traverse trails through forests, fields and prairies. Visitors can listen to birds, breathe in the fresh air, discover wildlife tracks, feel the wind and the warmth of the sun or the coldness of the snow. Visitors can expect to be surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter, experience spectacular views and vistas and benefit from the company of a knowledgeable state park guide.

“What better way to kick off the New Year than with a hike at a state park?” said Ruth Coleman, President of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD). “Think of it as the start of a new and healthy lifestyle for the whole family. Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, join us at one of America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.”

First Day Hikes originated more than 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year round recreation at state parks. Many other states have offered outdoor recreation programs on New Year’s Day, however, this is the first time all 50 state park systems have joined together to sponsor  First Day Hikes.

“Studies have proven that getting outdoors is one good way to relax and recharge the body, mind and spirit,” stated Phil McNelly, NASPD’s Executive Director. “We hope that hiking along a trail in a state park will become part of an individual’s or family’s regular exercise routine.”

Park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which average one to two miles or longer depending on the state park. Details about hike locations, difficulty and length, terrain and tips regarding proper clothing are listed on the America’s state parks website. Visit www.americasstateparks.org to find a First Day Hike nearest you.

In Florida, hikes will be offered at the following locations and times on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012:

Torreya State Park, Bristol

9 a.m.

Enjoy a two mile guided hike through the most diverse topography in Florida and the Steephead Ravine systems bring a vast array of rare and endangered plants and animals. The federally endangered Torreya tree is one example of the special features that call Torreya State Park home. Water and appropriate shoes/clothing for weather conditions and terrain are recommended. For more information, call 850-643-2674.

Camp Helen State Park, Panama City Beach

10 a.m.

This two mile ranger lead hike winds through beautiful oak hammocks, coastal dune lake areas out to a gorgeous white sand beach. Water, insect repellant, sun screen and appropriate shoes/clothing for weather conditions and terrain are recommended. For more information, call 850-233-5058.

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park, Cross Creek

10 a.m.

Meet at the barn in the farmyard at this national historic landmark for a walk through the home of author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. Visitors can also explore the park’s two short trails through the park, the first trail goes from the front of the house in a loop through a Florida hammock and the second trail leads from the back of the historic property through a fern forest to the cypress trees. For more information, call 352-466-6372.

Little Talbot Island State Park, Jacksonville

12 p.m.

The Dune Ridge Trail meanders for two miles atop an ancient dune ridge under a canopy of live oaks, cedars and sable palms in a lush maritime hammock and concludes with a two mile walk along Little Talbot Island's picturesque beach. Water, snacks, insect repellant, layered clothing and a camera are recommended. For more information, call 904-251-2320.

Fort Clinch State Park, Fernandina Beach

9 a.m.

This easy six mile hike winds along ancient sand dunes in a maritime forest of centuries old live oaks. Water and appropriate shoes/clothing for weather conditions and terrain are recommended. For more information, call 904-277-7274.

Sebastian Inlet State Park, Melbourne Beach

8 a.m.

Join a park ranger on an early morning stroll along one of the Atlantic Ocean's dynamic beaches to learn about the drama of the endangered sea turtles, the importance of barrier islands and more. Water, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellant and sunscreen are recommended. For more information, call 321-984-4852.

Colt Creek State Park, Lakeland

10 a.m.

Participants should meet at the Mac Lake Pavilion for this two mile ranger led hike, meandering through pine flatwoods, around cypress domes and by bottomland forests. Along the way, visitors will have the opportunity to view native plants and animals while learning about the natural and cultural resources of the park. Water, insect repellant, sunscreen and appropriate shoes/clothing for weather conditions and terrain are recommended. For more information, call 863-815-6761.

De Leon Springs State Park, De Leon Springs

1 p.m.

Join a park ranger for a four mile hike on the Wild Persimmon Trail. Deer, turkeys and occasionally a black bear are spotted on this trail. Water, insect repellant and appropriate shoes/clothing for weather conditions and terrain are recommended. For more information, call 386-985-4212.

Honeymoon Island State Park, Dunedin

11 a.m.

A knowledgeable volunteer will guide visitors down nearly a mile of the Osprey Trail. With an optional two mile hike, visitors should bring water, sunscreen, binoculars and appropriate shoes/clothing for weather conditions and terrain are recommended. For more information, call 727-738-2903.

America's State Parks is committed to promoting outdoor recreation in state parks as a way to address obesity, especially among children. Getting kids outside and unplugged from video games and other electronic media creates a unique connection with nature that promotes physical and mental well-being and encourages creativity and stewardship of our shared resources.

The mission of the NASPD and America's State Parks is to promote and advance the state park systems of America for their own significance, as well as for their important contributions to the nation’s environment, heritage, health and economy.

About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails

The nation’s best state parks and trails have joined forces. Now a part of the Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Park Service, the award-winning Office of Greenways and Trails manages the 110-mile Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, eight state trails and more. Florida’s award-winning state parks have inspired residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that helps to strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With 160 parks, 700,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 600 miles of multi-use trails, visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org or www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/.

 

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Emergency Management Officials Remind Floridians to Practice Fire Safety as Cold Temperatures Move into the State Wednesday

TALLAHASSEE – Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors across the state to practice fire safety when using indoor heating sources as temperatures are expected to drop below normal values statewide by Wednesday night. By taking basic safety precautions, residents can reduce the risk of fire, property damage or any potential loss of life.

“Floridians are advised to be prepared for the drop in temperatures tonight,” said Amy Godsey, State Meteorologist. ”We encourage all residents and visitors to practice cold weather safety, especially around indoor heating sources that may pose a potential fire hazard to family and property.”

Overnight, temperatures are forecast to drop to near freezing across inland locations in North Florida on Wednesday night and into Thursday morning. These freezing temperatures are expected to last for up to 3 hours, and will fall into the 30’s after midnight. Freeze Watches are in effect for the Nature Coast in Levy, Citrus and Hernando counties, and a Frost Advisory is in effect for all inland counties in Northeast Florida. Freezing temperatures are not expected for Central and South Florida, but low temperatures in the 40s and 50s may feel exceptionally chilly, as these areas have not experienced cold temperatures since earlier this month.

Floridians should remember the "Five P's" of cold weather safety.  The “5 P’s” are: Protecting People, Protecting Plants, Protecting Pets, Protecting Exposed Pipes, and Practicing Fire Safety. To stay cozy and safe during cold weather, remember these safety tips:

• Stay indoors and use safe heating sources.
• When outdoors, stay dry and wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.
• Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets. Use of extension cords may lead to circuit overload and cause a fire.
• Keep space heaters away from drapery, furniture or other flammable material. A good rule of thumb is to keep space heaters at least 36 inches from anything flammable.
• Do not leave space heaters unattended.
• Do not use a stove or oven as a heat source. An open oven door or lit stove burners can be dangerous and are ineffective as a heat source.
• Never use grills as an indoor heating source. Charcoal and propane emit carbon monoxide gas and are not suitable for indoor use.
• Candles are unsafe and ineffective as a heat source. Never leave candles lit in an unattended room or when going to sleep.
• When using a fireplace, make sure it is properly vented and that the chimney is cleaned periodically to avoid flash fires.
• Do not burn anything in the fireplace other than firewood and do not leave a fire burning when going to sleep.
• Install smoke detectors and make sure they work.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector if you have any gas appliances.
• Review and practice your family’s fire escape plan.

For more information on cold weather safety and the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org.

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Road and Lane Closures for Dec. 17-30, 2011

The following is a list of roadwork underway by the Florida Department of Transportation that may impact traffic. All construction projects,(with the exception of those noted), will be suspended between Dec. 23, 2011 and Jan. 2, 2012 for the anticipated increase in holiday traffic.

ALACHUA COUNTY:

Archer Road (State Road 24) Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from Southwest 13^th Street (US 441) to the Levy County line which is a moving operation.

Archer Road (State Road 24) Daytime lane closures for westbound traffic between Northwest 13^th Street and Newell Drive to repair curb.

Interstate 75 No lane closures expected at the northbound exit ramp to Newberry Road (State Road 26) as crews widen the ramp. The speed limit is reduced to 60 mph. Semi-trucks are allowed to use the northbound inside lane approaching the Newberry Road interchange. The sidewalk on the south side of the overpass between the northbound and southbound exit ramps will be closed through the end of December. Pedestrians are directed to use the sidewalk on the north side of the road.

Interstate 75 frontage road (April Boulevard) Daytime lane closures from US 441 to the end of the road to work on drainage and the shoulders in preparation for paving.

Main Street (State Road 329) Daytime lane closures from Williston Road (State Road 331) to North Eighth Avenue to repaint the roadway markings.

Newberry Road (State Road 26) Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from US 41 in Newberry to Southwest 34^th Street which is a moving operation.

Northwest 13^th Street (US 441) Daytime lane closures for northbound traffic near Northwest Third Avenue to repair curb.

Southeast and Southwest 16^th Avenue (State Road 226) Daytime lane closures to repaint the roadway markings from Archer Road (State Road 24) to Williston Road (State Road 331).

Southwest 13^th Street (US 441) Daytime lane closures south of Archer Road (State Road 24) to modify sidewalk and driveways on both sides of the road to make improvements for pedestrians and bicyclists. The work is being overseen by the Gainesville Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).  Work will be underway December 28-30.

Southwest 30^th Avenue in Newberry The road closed south of State Road 26 and just west of US 27/41 Thursday through Saturday until 5 p.m. to replace the railroad crossing. Traffic is detoured to Southwest 46^th Avenue and Southwest 266^th Street or to State Road 26 and Southwest 266^th Street.

Southwest 34^th Street (State Road 121) Crews will be repainting the roadway lines between Williston Road (State Road 331) and West University Avenue (State Road 26) which is a moving operation.

State Road 121 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from US 441 to the Union County line which is a moving operation.

University Avenue (State Road 26) Daytime lane closures for eastbound traffic east of Northeast 17^th Street on Monday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for Gainesville Fire Department training.

US 27/41 in Newberry The road will be closed Saturday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. between the Newberry Fire Station and State Road 26 for the annual Christmas parade. Alachua County Sheriff’s Department will detour traffic.

US 27/41 Daytime lane closures from the Levy County line to US 441 in High Springs to repaint the roadway markings.

Waldo Road (State Road 24) Daytime lane closures just north of Northeast 39^th Avenue for construction of a driveway and a right turn lane.

West University Avenue (State Road 26) Crews will be repainting the roadway lines between Southwest 13^th and 34^th streets which is a moving operation.

BAKER COUNTY:

County Road 125 (Manntown Bridge) Daytime lane closures weekdays after 8:30 a.m. to replace the bridge by installing piers for the new bridge foundation. Work will be underway December 27-29.

East Boulevard Possible daytime lane closures at the railroad crossing just south of US 90 in Macclenny to allow CSX Railroad to widen the crossing to provide sidewalks.

Fifth Street (State Road 228) Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from Interstate 10 to US 90 which is a moving operation.

Sixth Street (State Road 121) Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from US 90 to the Union County line which is a moving operation.

 

COLUMBIA COUNTY:

Interstate 10 Daytime and nighttime lane closures Monday between US 441(Exit 303) and the Suwannee County line (west of Interstate 75) for paving the inside lane and shoulder. Then, Tuesday through Thursday, daytime lane closures to repave the on and off ramps at the US 41 and 441 interchanges. Also, possible lane closures for replacing the motorist aid call box pads and on drainage improvements on both sides of the interstate. The speed limit is reduced to 60 mph during lane closures. No lane closures allowed Friday (after 6 a.m.) through Sunday.

Interstate 75 Daytime lane closures for northbound traffic north of the US 41/441 overpass in Ellisville to remove the barrier wall in the median. The speed limit is reduced to 60 mph during lane closures. The final layer of asphalt will be placed beginning after January 2.

US 41/441 Daytime lane closures from US 90 to the Alachua County line to repaint the roadway markings.

US 41 (North Main Boulevard) Daytime lane closures for southbound traffic from the railroad overpass to Long Street on Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to allow the City of Lake City to repair a manhole.

US 90 Daytime lane closures between the Baker and Suwannee counties to repaint the roadway markings.

US 90 (West Duval Street) Daytime lane closures for westbound traffic from Baya Drive to Gwen Lake Drive between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. to build a new driveway at Enterprise Rent-a-Car.

 

GILCHRIST COUNTY:

State Road 26 Daytime lane closures at Southeast 70^th Avenue, a mile west of the Alachua County line, to install the poles for a flashing caution signal.

 

HAMILTON COUNTY:

Interstate 75 Daytime and possible nighttime lane closures between US 129 (Exit 451) and State Road 6 (Exit 460) for replacing deficient asphalt and sealing the bridge joints on the Alapaha River Bridge and railroad overpass as well as placing the final roadway markings. The speed limit is reduced to 60 mph during lane closures.

Interstate 75 The southbound agricultural inspection station at mile marker 446 is closed until February 2012 while a new station is built.  All livestock is redirected to the FDOT weigh station at mile marker 451 which is north of the closed agricultural inspection station.

State Road 6 Daytime lane closures at the Withlachoochee River bridge (Madison County line) on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for routine bridge maintenance.

 

LEVY COUNTY:

Alternate 27 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines between US 129 in Chiefland and the Marion County line which is a moving operation.

 

MADISON COUNTY:

State Road 6 Daytime lane closures from US 90 to the Hamilton County line to trim trees.

State Road 53 Daytime lane closures from US 90 to the Georgia line to repair the asphalt.

State Road 145 Daytime lane closures to place the final layer of asphalt between Hanson and the Georgia state line. Work will be underway this weekend.

US 90 Daytime lane closures from Greenville to the Jefferson County line to clean ditches.

 

SUWANNEE COUNTY:

Interstate 10 Daytime lane closures Monday through Thursday between US 90 (Exit 275) and US 129 (Exit 283) to work on the shoulders and place guardrail in the median. The speed is reduced to 60 mph during lane closures. No lane closures allowed Friday through Sunday and lane closures are restricted to two miles.

US 90 Daytime lane closures between the Madison and Suwannee county lines to repaint the roadway markings.

 

TAYLOR COUNTY:

US 27 Daytime lane closures from Jefferson Street to County Road 30 to make asphalt repairs.

US 98 Daytime lane closures for the construction of a temporary bridge across the Aucilla River at the Jefferson County line. No detours will be required for this project.

 

UNION COUNTY:

State Road 100 Work is underway to build a multi-use trail that follows the old Norfolk Southern rail corridor adjacent to SR 100 from State Road 238 to County Road 237.

State Road 121 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines between the Alachua and Baker county lines which is a moving operation.

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