A few kinks then smooth sailing through U.S. 98 detour

Just over a week ago, the traffic pattern east of the Hathaway bridge was diverted as part of construction efforts for the 23rd Street Flyover project. Living on Panama City Beach, but working and going to FSU in Panama City, I admit to having been worried about how the road construction will affect my daily commute during the week.

When the traffic pattern was changed on the evening of April 21, I was already back beachside. The next morning, I heard of many people being stuck in traffic for hours. There were a great many posts on Facebook about it, as well. I started to think getting to and from work and school was going to become a daily nightmare.

I was, however, pleasantly surprised to see that traffic was moving just fine by midday on Saturday, April 22. I am happy to say that since the initial difficulty, the traffic diversion seems to be running smoothly. Traffic quickly returned to its typical congestion levels, and perhaps even a slight improvement over the old traffic pattern.

The new Temporary U.S. 98 will be used until fall 2019, according to FDOT. Periodic lane shifts will be necessary during that time, as construction continues along existing U.S. 98 and 23rd Street.

To find out the latest information and about the 23rd Street Flyover project and to find out how the project is progressing, go to http://www.nwflroads.com/21797635201.shtm. Additionally, look for the project on these social media outlets:

• Facebook: my23rdstreetflyover
• Twitter: @MyFDOT_NWFL
• Instagram: my23rdstreetflyover

— Phoebe Isaac

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major