Collier County gets $2M for I-75 interchange study at Everglades Boulevard

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — Traffic relief could be on the way in Collier County as an interchange project takes a significant step forward.

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart announced $2 million in funding for a feasibility study connected to a proposed interchange at I-75 and Everglades Boulevard. The study would examine whether the existing Everglades Boulevard interchange could eventually be opened along a portion of I-75.

Local and federal leaders told WINK News Traffic Anchor Mariaregina Mendoza on Monday morning that this is another step toward addressing local growth and transportation needs.

"It's important to note that this money is for the studies requisite for the process for us to be able to facilitate the opening of that partial interchange," Collier County Commissioner Bill McDaniel said.

"That will come after this process is completed, then the actual infrastructure can go in. This is a much-needed infrastructure enhancement to help the residents of Collier County from an evacuation standpoint, from a safety standpoint and transportation standpoint," McDaniel said.

Diaz-Balart emphasized the importance of the project and his work with local officials.

"It's a very important project," Diaz-Balart said. "As the commissioner said, this is one more demonstration that I've been able to do over the years, working with our local elected officials, to make sure that we can bring federal money to projects."

Count on WINK News to keep you updated if there are any new developments regarding the proposed interchange project.