This project will reconfigure the I-75/SR 56 interchange between CR 54 and Cypress Ridge Boulevard in Pasco County. The existing diamond interchange will be modified and converted to a diverging diamond interchange (DDI). The main change will be to diverge (cross) SR 56 traffic to the left side of the road through the interchange, and then cross vehicles back over to the right side of the road on the opposite side of the interchange. The changes will help to alleviate traffic congestion at this interchange to reduce travel time for motorists in this rapidly growing area.
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PROJECT UPDATE>>> The interchange of SR 56 and I-75 was converted to a Diverging Diamond Interchange traffic pattern Sunday afternoon, May 1, 2022.

Additional SR 56 thru-lanes have opened over I-75. A third westbound SR 56 lane was opened early on May 11, 2022 and a third eastbound lane was opened early on May 13, 2022.

Meanwhile, the area will continue to be a busy construction zone as work continues to complete the project in the coming months. Watch out for our construction workers!

TRAFFIC UPDATE: During peak driving hours since the conversion to the DDI, significant traffic congestion has occurred for some traffic movements. After any major traffic change, adjustments are typically needed during the first few weeks of operation. We have been making traffic signal adjustments to improve the traffic flow, particularly during peak afternoon/evening hours on the northbound I-275/I-75 exit ramp to SR 56. Other changes have also been made to improve the operation of the new DDI area; including adding another thru-lane in each direction as described above. We appreciate your patience as we work to make traffic flow the best possible during the final months of the project construction.
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A DDI was chosen for the I-75 / SR 56 interchange because of the proven ability of this traffic configuration to increase safety and capacity while using a large amount of the existing interchange footprint, including the existing bridge. The DDI was also chosen because of its ability to handle heavy left turn volumes, such as the westbound to southbound movement from SR 56 to SB I-75.

The expected benefits for the interchange are an increase in capacity and pedestrian safety while reducing vehicle delays and crashes. These benefits will be achieved by an increased number of lanes, improved pedestrian facilities, more efficient signal timings and reduced vehicle conflict points.

How will the DDI work?

Unlike a conventional diamond interchange -- no matter what direction you are driving on State Road 56 – you will diverge -- or cross to the left side of the road through the interchange, and then cross back over to the right side of the road, on the opposite side of the interchange.

The Diverging Diamond Interchange at State Road 56 will reduce vehicle delays by allowing traffic to enter the interstate without waiting at a left turn signal.  To do this, traffic is redirected from the right side of the bridge to the left side.

Signalized crossovers are positioned at each side of the interchange, and are designed to cross eastbound and westbound State Road 56 traffic with no turning movements at these two intersections. This design allows for more efficient signal timing, which reduces delay times, minimizes conflict points, and enables the interchange to more effectively handle higher volumes of traffic while eliminating the more serious crashes associated with a conventional interchange.

Other features and benefits of diverging diamond interchanges

• DDIs operate under two-phase signal control, which reduces lost time, delays and queue lengths at traffic signals.
• Safety features include lower design speeds between ramps and a reduction in the number of conflict points. The lower speeds result in less severe crashes.
• Increased safety for pedestrians and bicycles.
• Better sight distance at turns.