NEWBERRY – Drivers traveling through part of western Alachua County will soon face a detour as construction begins on a new roundabout designed to improve traffic safety and traffic flow in the Newberry area.
Alachua County Public Works and the City of Newberry announced that construction at the intersection of County Road 235 and Newberry Lane is scheduled to begin Monday, June 1, 2026.
To allow construction crews to safely complete the project, officials said the intersection and surrounding roadway will be closed to through traffic for the duration of the work.
The closure is expected to remain in place through Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, with the roadway anticipated to reopen on Aug. 10.
Motorists traveling through the area can expect detours and additional travel time during the summer construction period.
Officials said advance-warning signs will be installed ahead of the closure and marked detour routes will direct traffic around the work zone.
Drivers are encouraged to use caution while traveling near construction areas and plan alternate routes before traveling through the area.
The designated detour routes include:
Option A: U.S. 27/41 (State Road 45) to Northwest 78th Avenue
Option B: Northwest 202nd Street to Northwest 46th Avenue
County officials said the project is intended to improve safety and efficiency at the intersection.
“This project is designed to improve traffic safety, enhance traffic flow, and reduce the severity of crashes at the intersection,” said Alachua County Construction Inspections Superintendent Aaron Burke.
Burke also asked for patience from residents and motorists as the project moves forward.
“Public Works appreciates the community’s patience as crews work to enhance safety and improve traffic flow in the Newberry area,” Burke said.
Roundabouts have increasingly been used by transportation agencies as an alternative to traditional signalized intersections, with officials often citing reduced vehicle speeds and fewer severe crashes among the anticipated benefits.
Residents seeking additional information about the project may contact Alachua County Public Works at 352-374-5254.
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