A traffic circle project by the Town of Cutler Bay’s Public Works Department that was expected to be completed in late December was finished ahead of schedule and was fully open by the first of the month.
Located at the intersection of SW 216th Street and 97th Avenue, the traffic “calming” circle is expected to greatly improve traffic flow for residents in the Lakes by the Bay communities as well as those passing through the area. The use of native trees and shrubbery in the landscaping also enhances the look of the intersection, according to Councilmember Peggy R. Bell.
“Residents have been contacting me to say how much they like the beautiful new circle,” Bell said. “Prior to the creation of a roundabout, this intersection was becoming more dangerous daily. This is an example of the town’s dedication to finding solutions to traffic congestion and speeding.
“Traffic calming devices, such as this, move traffic more safely and efficiently,” she said. “It is wonderful that our town manager and Public Works director were able to keep the road open to traffic, complete it under budget, and in less time than originally planned.”
Because town staff negotiated an agreement with Lennar Homes LLC, which was the original developer of the Lakes by the Bay community, Lennar Homes provided more than $204,000 towards the design and construction. To further enhance the project, the town contributed an additional $45,000 to the funding from its portion of the People’s Transportation Plan (PTP) tax.
FHP Tectonics Corp., a local contractor from the Miami area, completed the project ahead of schedule and within budget, and the construction, engineering and inspection services were provided by the town’s engineering consultant, The Corradino Group. But the project planning and preparation, which included notifying residents of the work ahead of time, also contributed to the success of the traffic circle, according to town manager Rafael G. Casals.
“I’m very proud of the town’s Public Works project team and Police Department for their outreach efforts, which included the distribution of over 1,200 door hangers and attending the Lakes by the Bay Master Association’s September HOA meeting,” Casals said.
Residents and business owners who wish up-to-date information on current road projects may call the town’s Public Works Department at 305-234-4262.
