Project

Dunedin Safety and Mobility Improvement

Pinellas County, FL

The Dunedin Safety and Mobility Improvement Project is a key initiative by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) aimed at enhancing the safety, accessibility, and mobility for both residents and visitors in the city of Dunedin. This project introduces a variety of transportation and streetscape improvements designed to better accommodate pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle traffic, while also adding aesthetic and functional features to the area. The focus is on improving traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and overall community connectivity, particularly linking to the existing Pinellas Trail.

The project encompasses several improvements to the transportation infrastructure within Dunedin. Below are the key components:

Lane Reduction (Four to Two Lanes):

A lane reduction will be implemented between Alt 19/Broadway and Oak Street, narrowing the road from four lanes to two. This change is designed to reduce traffic speeds, create a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists, and provide more space for landscaping and streetscaping features.

Roundabouts at Douglas Avenue and Highland Avenue:

To improve traffic flow and reduce the likelihood of accidents, roundabouts will be installed at the intersections of Douglas Avenue and Highland Avenue. Roundabouts are proven to decrease the severity of crashes and can help with continuous traffic movement, reducing congestion.

10-Foot-Wide Concrete Sidewalks Connecting to the Pinellas Trail:

A major component of the project is the construction of 10-foot-wide concrete sidewalks that will connect the surrounding areas to the Pinellas Trail, a popular recreational path. These sidewalks will create a safer walking environment, encourage pedestrian activity, and increase overall connectivity within the community.

On-Street Parking, Bus Bays, and Bicycle Lanes:

On-street parking will be added to certain sections of the roadway to accommodate local businesses and visitors. Dedicated bus bays will be constructed to improve public transportation efficiency, while bicycle lanes will provide safer routes for cyclists. These features aim to create a multi-modal transportation network that serves the diverse needs of the community.

Permanent Pedestrian Crossing Signal at the Pinellas Trail:

To ensure safe crossings for pedestrians accessing the Pinellas Trail, a permanent pedestrian crossing signal will be installed. This new signal will help pedestrians safely navigate across busy roadways, improving access to the trail and reducing the potential for accidents.

New Mast Arm Signal at Bass Boulevard/Main Street:

A new mast arm traffic signal will be installed at the Bass Boulevard/Main Street intersection to improve traffic control and visibility. The mast arm design is more durable and provides better clearance for vehicles, enhancing safety at this key intersection.

Decorative Street Lighting:

The project will also introduce decorative street lighting, which will not only improve visibility and safety at night but will also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area. This lighting will contribute to the overall beautification of the streetscape and create a more inviting environment for pedestrians and drivers.

Raised Median (Landscaping Opportunity):

A raised median will be constructed along certain sections of the roadway, offering an opportunity for landscaping. The median will provide a visual buffer between lanes, reduce traffic speed, and create a more attractive and welcoming environment for both residents and visitors. Landscaping in the median will further beautify the area and improve the streetscape.

Challenges and Considerations

One of the challenges of this project is managing the balance between improving traffic flow and ensuring safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. The lane reduction, while improving safety, may impact traffic capacity, so careful traffic management and planning will be crucial to minimizing disruptions during construction. The integration of roundabouts and new pedestrian signals will also require coordination to ensure that all users—drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists—are accommodated efficiently.

Outcome and Conclusion

Upon completion, the Dunedin Safety and Mobility Improvement Project will have successfully enhanced the transportation infrastructure in the area, making it safer and more accessible for everyone. The combination of lane reductions, roundabouts, and multi-modal features like sidewalks, bike lanes, and bus bays will improve the flow of traffic while promoting a more pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly environment.

The new pedestrian crossings, the addition of decorative street lighting, and the raised median with landscaping will improve the overall aesthetics and safety of the area, creating a more vibrant and attractive community. Additionally, the connection to the Pinellas Trail will foster greater community engagement and encourage active transportation, benefiting residents and visitors alike.

This project is an important step toward creating a more sustainable and livable urban environment in Dunedin. By incorporating safety, mobility, and aesthetic improvements, the project will significantly enhance the quality of life in the area, promote economic activity, and make the streets more inviting for all users.

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