The project will include widening Bruce B. Downs Boulevard to an eight-lane divided roadway and replacing and relocating City of Tampa water/wastewater facilities in the area. Once the award is approved, the contractor will set the start date for the project right after the holidays, as County staff has promised the local businesses. Beginning the project during the dry season is critical to underground work on the project.

"The competitive construction market right now is a great time to start this project. Prices are at an historic low and this will provide an economic stimulus and jobs for our community," said Bob Gordon, County Public Works Department Director. "We also are pleased that this contract will provide a significant savings to taxpayers and allow this widening to finally begin. Area residents have been waiting on this project for years."