Jackie Guenther
•2/23/2026
Ortiz Avenue in Fort Myers is undergoing a major transformation to accommodate increased traffic, with paving work scheduled to begin today, causing potential delays for drivers.
The project, which has been ongoing for more than a year, involves widening Ortiz Avenue from two lanes to four between Colonial Boulevard and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
The upgrade includes a 6-foot sidewalk on the east side, a 10-foot paved trail on the west side, and bike lanes in both directions. New street lights will be installed, and a grass median will separate traffic to improve safety.
Today, paving work begins on the east side of Ortiz Avenue from the roundabout to the north end of the project at Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Work is slated to begin at 7 a.m. and go until 5 p.m.
Drivers should expect flaggers and heavy truck traffic in the area. With construction ramping up, it is advised to plan ahead, give yourself extra time, and drive carefully through the work zone.
DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.