Gresham Smith to Design Roadway Improvements along I-10 and SR 85 in Florida
Gresham Smith has been awarded a contract to assist the Florida Department of Transportation District 3 with two design projects in Okaloosa County along Interstate 10 (State Road 8) and State Road 85. Both roadways provide important connections, particularly for hurricane evacuations and Eglin Air Force Base.
“These projects will focus on what we call 3R design improvements, meaning resurfacing, restoration and rehabilitation, that will enhance safety for all users, from motorists and truckers on the interstates to more vulnerable populations and pedestrians crossing the street on SR 85,” said Tyler Strickland, P.E., J.D., RSP1, Florida state transportation leader at Gresham Smith. “During our design process, we’ll also review crash and other safety data to determine if there are any other improvements that can be made.”
The I-10 project primarily consists of resurfacing travel lanes along an 8-mile corridor as well as the on- and off-ramps at one interchange. A number of bridges also exist on the route and guardrail and other elements will be assessed for each of those.
The SR 85 project covers approximately 2.1 miles, including resurfacing the existing travel lanes and shoulders. It includes four signalized intersections where pedestrian lighting will be upgraded and sidewalk improvements will be made according to Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines.