North Fort Myers US 41 construction delayed again, now set for spring

NORTH FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — Drivers are still dealing with construction headaches along U.S. 41, and there's a new timeline for when relief could finally come.

This comes months after WINK News first reported on frustrations over delays in January. 

In January, frustrated drivers spoke about dealing with delays, detours and daily slowdowns.

"I think it's taken way too long, and traffic is just too hectic in here," one driver said.

Since then, the Florida Department of Transportation says progress has been made. Crews recently installed new traffic signals and pedestrian hybrid beacons, along with roadway lighting and signage, which is about 95% complete right now.

But with that progress comes a new timeline. FDOT now says the estimated completion date has been pushed to spring 2026.

The reason is that officials say they had to resequence parts of the project to better address community concerns. Still to come are final paving, continued sidewalk improvements and finishing touches on signage and lighting.

"It's just frustrating. It's frustrating for everybody," said Mary Beth Adams, a North Fort Myers resident.

"It's been long enough. It's been over a year and almost a year and a half, so it just seems like it should have been going quicker," Adams said.

Adams said she's looking forward to the project's completion.

"Relief, it'll be a big relief to be able to get to work 15 minutes again," Adams said.

FDOT says crews will continue working in phases over the coming months, with more updates expected as the project moves forward.