PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — FDOT is considering using continuous-flow intersections at four very busy and congested Tampa Bay area intersections.

A continuous-flow intersection, sometimes referred to as a displaced left turn intersection, is an innovative design to help improve safety and mobility by redirecting some or all left hand turns at a major signalized intersection.

FDOT recently opened the first one ever constructed in the state in Lee County at State Road 82 at Daniels Parkway and Gunnery Road. FDOT said this is preventing back-ups and some accidents by eliminating the left turn signal at the main intersection.

FDOT completed an Innovative Intersections Feasibility Review for US 19 from Tampa Rd to Alt 19. The state found several designs, not just continuous-flow intersections, that provide better level of service at signalized intersections.

Now, FDOT said they have been tasked to take this US 19 review forward with conceptual designs and traffic simulation.

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FDOT also finished an earlier review of Dale Mabry Hwy from Van Dyke just south of SR 54. This review has also been taken forward as above and is underway, according to the state.

The state is also on track to perform a similar review for Fowler Ave. between the I-275 and I-75 interchanges.

Finally, FDOT is looking at US 41 at State Road 54 in Pasco County.

Also, as part of the Pasco County Vision 54/56 plan and recommended by the Metropolitan Planning Organization Board, the state are conducting a pre-project development and environment and feasibility study at the intersection of US 41 and SR 54. One of the alternatives includes a grade separation of SR 54 with an at-grade Continuous Flow intersection.