$231 million project would connect Interstate 95, Florida's Turnpike in Martin County

MARTIN COUNTY — A project costing up to $231 million would connect Interstate 95 and Florida's Turnpike in southern Martin County, making it easier for drivers to move between the two highways.

The Florida Department of Transportation already is studying the concept and is to present details to the Martin County Commission Tuesday.

But there is "no plan for an additional exit" from the turnpike in Martin County," said Troy McDonald, Stuart city commissioner and chair of the policy board of the Martin Metropolitan Planning Organization, which coordinates transportation improvements in the county.

Drivers already have two interchanges where they can go between I-95 and the turnpike, to the north of Martin County — at Okeechobee Road in St. Lucie County — and to the south, at West Indiantown Road in Palm Beach County.

Officials of the Florida Turnpike Enterprise, which operates the toll road and is managing the study, did not respond to requests for more information.

A direct connection would enhance safety, provide another link between the highways; help residents during emergency evacuations; and help emergency responders, according to the Florida Turnpike Enterprise.

Local politicians have heard something a little different. The proposed link between the highway and toll road would be intended to relieve congestion at West Indiantown Road in Jupiter, where drivers can move between I-95 and the turnpike, Martin County Commission Chair Harold Jenkins and McDonald said.

Two proposals are being studied. Each would provide four direct connections between the highways, while one would require modifications to the I-95 ramps at Bridge Road.

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One proposal would cost $156 million, while the proposal requiring the modifications could cost $231 million. Motorists currently can use Bridge Road only to get on and off I-95, but there's no turnpike access there.

Public meetings on the two proposals are planned for July. One will be in person, and another virtual, according to the Florida Department of Transportation.

This story will be updated.

Keith Burbank is TCPalm's watchdog reporter covering Martin County. He can be reached at keith.burbank@tcpalm.com or at 720-288-6882.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Connection between Florida's Turnpike and I-95 may cost $231 million