Confusing lane shifts on Daniels Parkway worry Fort Myers drivers

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK)—Drivers are warning about confusing lane shifts along Daniels Parkway near Fiddlesticks and Danport Boulevard that could lead to dangerous situations.

Construction along Daniels Parkway is hard to miss—orange cones, backed-up traffic, and closed roads. 

Drivers say the construction is frustrating, but it's the lane shifts that are causing concern. They said they see people swerve into the wrong lane and fear that an accident will happen one day.

"I think there's a number of drivers that are really kind of confused," Jim Quain said.

"It's because everybody's used to a certain pattern, and this is such a popular road, most people use this road," Dave Cappuccilli said. "They're used to it, and all of a sudden it's all changing.

Drivers said parts of the road can look like it splits, causing confusion, honking, and close calls.

"So you have to be super cautious with all of the lanes kind of moving left to right shifting," Quain said.

The Lee County Department of Transportation said this is part of the Three Oaks Parkway Extension Project, which includes widening Daniels Parkway from six to eight lanes. The department said it's needed for growth, but drivers said adjusting is tough.

"With rainy season coming on, it's going to be tough," Cappuccilli said. "I'm elderly, and I feel bad for the elderly, because sometimes we get confused, and this is just going to be a challenging time."

For now, drivers said slowing down is key.

"I think everybody needs to just take it easy and not be in a rush," Quain said.

The project is expected to finish in phases through 2028, but until then, drivers should be aware and take it slow.