Intersection Closure at 127th Street West Affects Memorial Day Weekend Traffic Near Cortez Bridge
CORTEZ – Travelers along Cortez Road West near the Cortez Bridge faced significant traffic disruptions over Memorial Day weekend due to a full intersection closure at 127th Street West. The closure is part of the ongoing Cortez Bridge Utility Relocation Project, which is laying the groundwork for the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) planned bridge replacement set to begin in 2026.
While the Cortez Road and 119th Street West intersection remains open, access to the surrounding area has been restricted. Motorists heading north on 119th Street West toward Harbour Landings Drive and 126th Street West encountered a dead end, with no left turn access from 126th Street West onto 127th Street West near the humpback bridge.
Construction crews are currently focused on multiple zones:
East of Cortez Bridge on the north side of Cortez Road West, where the northern shoulder of 124th Court West and 127th Street West are active work areas;
The south side of Cortez Road West between 124th Street West and Avenue A;
And west of the bridge, where sidewalk closures and detours are in effect near the outside merge lane on eastbound Cortez Road West.
Work in these locations is expected to continue through summer 2025, with the overall project slated for completion by spring 2026.
Construction hours are Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with evening and weekend work scheduled as needed. Officials urge motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians to use caution and stay alert for construction crews, traffic pattern changes, and heavy equipment in the area.