Drivers Face Weekend Disruption as FDOT Closes Key I-75 Interchange in Collier County

NAPLES, Fla. — Thousands of motorists travelling through Collier County this weekend are being warned to expect delays as a major section of the Interstate 75 and Pine Ridge Road interchange closes for construction.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) says the temporary closure is another milestone in the transformation of one of Southwest Florida’s busiest highway junctions into the region’s first Diverging Diamond Interchange.

For many drivers, the closure will mean detours, slower journeys and heavier traffic on surrounding roads. Officials are urging motorists to allow extra time, particularly during peak travel periods, and to follow clearly marked diversion routes.

The work forms part of a wider effort to tackle congestion at an interchange used by tens of thousands of vehicles every day. As Naples and Collier County continue to grow, transportation planners say the existing layout can no longer cope efficiently with rising traffic volumes.

Unlike a conventional interchange, a Diverging Diamond Interchange briefly moves vehicles to the opposite side of the roadway. The design allows drivers turning left onto interstate entrance ramps to do so without crossing opposing traffic, reducing conflict points and improving the flow of vehicles through busy intersections.

While the concept can appear unfamiliar to first-time users, similar interchanges across Florida and the United States have shown improvements in both safety and travel times.

Construction crews will be working throughout the weekend, with intermittent lane restrictions and changing traffic patterns expected as the project progresses. Drivers are being reminded to reduce speed in work zones, remain alert for construction workers and obey all temporary traffic signals and signage.

FDOT says the wider interchange project will continue into 2027, with further phases of construction scheduled before the project reaches completion.

For residents and visitors alike, the weekend closure is likely to be an inconvenience. But transportation officials argue the temporary disruption is a necessary step toward delivering a safer, more efficient gateway into Naples and the surrounding communities.

Those planning to travel through the area are encouraged to check the latest traffic updates before setting out and consider alternative routes where possible.