The new 13-mile extension of the Suncoast Parkway opened Monday, Feb. 28, making the commute between Hernando and Citrus counties a much easier ride. The Florida Department of Transportation green-lighted the project Monday, paving the way for motorists to use the 13-mile stretch of tolled roadway that starts north from US 98 in Homosassa and ends at State Road 44 in Lecanto.
“The Suncoast Parkway serves millions of drivers every year – offering a safe, efficient, and convenient travel option for residents and visitors,” FDOT Assistant Secretary Will Watts said in a related press release. “This extension provides additional transportation infrastructure to support Florida’s continued growth and reflects the department’s unwavering commitment to the people of West Central Florida.”
The Suncoast Parkway extension is the first phase of a planned lengthening that eventually will see the parkway paved north to County Road 486 in Citrus. The latter expansion is currently under design, and funding for the project is expected next year.
The toll for users traveling the entire length of the Suncoast Parkway is $1.87, and ultimately the project will also extend the Suncoast Trail to State Road 44. A pedestrian overpass will be built over US 98. It is expected to open this spring.
“The Suncoast Parkway extension is a substantial piece to building regional connectivity in West Central Florida, specifically for the residents in Hernando and Citrus counties,” said Nicola Liquori, Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise executive director and CEO. “The extension increases options for residents and also for the millions of visitors our state sees each year.”
