Turnpike Spur and HEFT Widening PD&E Study

RS&H is conducting a project development and environment (PD&E) study to evaluate alternatives for widening the Homestead Extension of the Florida’s Turnpike (HEFT). The study is examining an area from west of NW 27th Avenue along the Turnpike from north of the Golden Glades interchange to just north of the HEFT interchange, as well as improvements to the two other major interchanges.

The presence of Florida Gas Transmission (FGT) gas mains along the west side of Turnpike would make widening difficult. To minimize impacts, RS&H analyzed shifting the widening away from the gas mains. This alternative was presented at a public information meeting in the fall of 2014. Significant impacts to the gas mains would likely cause the project to be canceled due to relocation costs mandated by the Global Agreement between the Turnpike and FGT.

RS&H’s experience with interchange modifications for the Turnpike, including the Sunrise Boulevard interchange, as well as coordinating with FGT regarding gas mains along the Turnpike will greatly benefit this project.

In late 2015, the Turnpike added evaluating express lanes (one lane in each direction) to the HEFT portion of the project. This coincided with the selection of RS&H for the design of this section of HEFT. With a short design schedule, the PD&E and design projects will be closely coordinated.