With all of the changes at I-275 and State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel, a viewer email reminds us that the only thing we can count on in construction zones, is change.
This week’s hot spot is a relatively new traffic light at the location.
“You won’t see the traffic light till we’re well around the curve here,” said viewer Thomas Reinhart.
“And there was no traffic light here to get on eastbound 56 until just a few weeks ago.”
What he’s talking about is the opening of the new diverting diamond interchange there.
The light was necessary because this is the spot where eastbound State Road 56 traffic crosses back over into their proper lanes.
And at the time the light was installed, the speed limit on the ramp was 60 miles per hour.
“Well, the first time I saw the new traffic light I was halfway around the curve, and I wasn’t going that fast because it was a curve,” Reinhart said. “But there were cars stopped right in front of me and I didn’t have to stop short, but I had to slow down very quickly.”
The state must have noticed the same thing happening.
Not long after Thomas’s experience, the Florida Department of Transportation put up a temporary speed limit sign of 35 mph.
It doesn’t look like a standard sign, so pay attention.
There is also a message board at the bottom of the ramp warning drivers of the light and short distance ahead.
