Crews break ground on Golden Gate Blvd. expansion

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NAPLES, Fla. – A multimillion-dollar road widening project is now underway in Golden Gate Estates.

Collier County commissioners and community leaders broke ground on the two-mile stretch of Golden Gate Boulevard east of Wilson Boulevard to 18th Street East Monday morning.

“They’re excited, and we’re excited, and we’re looking forward to getting it done,” said Deputy Collier County Manager Nick Casalanguida.

Drivers can expect delays over the next two years, but a few residents say it will be worth it.

“I’m very happy for the new construction,” said Tresita Figueredo. “I moved to this street maybe 15 years ago, and it’s very difficult when you, in the morning when you go to work, you’re waiting 20-30 minutes because of a lot of traffic.”

The project will widen Golden Gate Boulevard from two lanes to four lanes. Other improvements include turn lanes, bike lanes, and curbs and gutters. As the population continues to grow in this part of the county, officials say the goal is to reduce traffic headaches.

But Casalanguida says drivers will need to be patient during the construction over the next two years.

“Expect there will be some delays and discomfort while driving but the contractors and us will maintain a safe environment for you to travel in.”

A manager for the project tells WINK News their biggest concern is all the kids that ride the bus in the area, saying they will stay extremely vigilant to make sure everyone is safe.

Crews will work on one side of the road first, which will take about a year to get done. Afterwards they will divert traffic and start working on the other side.

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