This project was the last and largest section of the Palmetto Expressway Improvement Program (Divided into 12 Sections). The primary objective of the project was to increase capacity along the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) and the Dolphin Expressway (SR 836) while enhancing existing ramp connections and creating connections that did not exist before. The project also made provisions for express lanes connections for future projects. Design innovations, coupled with a well-executed construction plan, allowed for early completion of the project while providing FDOT $276 million in savings over the Department’s construction estimate.

BCC Engineering was the Lead Designer responsible for managing the design team.  

BCC’s Traffic Engineering Operations Department developed the signing and pavement markings design and final plans which included a total of 94 guide signs. Some design challenges included signing for closely spaced interchange exits with multiple destinations. Another unique signing challenge was the unconventional design of the overhead signs within the Miami International Airport Glide Path in order to make the sign panels sufficiently narrow to avoid any glide path encroachment and still be effective to the road users. This project was the first in South Florida to evaluate the implementation of the new design standard Arrow-Per-Lane guide signs for Option Lanes at Splits and Multi-Lane Exits.