Update: Highland Closed through Wednesday; Schedules for Crest and River, Central and Caracas

A global sand shortage is being felt here at home in the Tampa Bay region. Sand is used to make asphalt, concrete, glass, silicon chips and more. The shortage means that contractors like Nelson Construction are struggling to find ample supplies for concrete curb, sidewalk, road base and asphalt, which is affecting the construction schedule.

Following is a schedule update, based on the latest information and supply availability:

Highland Avenue Closure:  Highland Avenue should be re-opened by end of day Wednesday, July 6, barring unforeseen conditions. This delay is due to availability issues with asphalt. (Click to enlarge map.) 

River Boulevard and West Crest Restoration:  Crews expect to begin installing asphalt in this area on July 6.

Central Avenue North of Hillsborough:  Workers are tentatively planning to begin installing stormwater box culvert between the weeks of July 25 and August 1.

Caracas and Central: Crews expect to begin installing 72-inch stormwater pipe on East Caracas Street between North Central Avenue and I-275 on or near July 28.

Florida Avenue Closure: The next closure of Florida Avenue from West Crest Avenue to Frierson is scheduled to begin in early August and will last for approximately three weeks.

The project team will post updates as new information is available.  Thank you and have a wonderful holiday weekend.