FDOT to Hold Public Hearings on Proposed S.R. 70 Widening in DeSoto County
ARCADIA, FL — The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is seeking community input on a major proposal to expand State Road 70 in DeSoto County. Residents and commuters are invited to attend upcoming public hearings to review the Project Development & Environment (PD&E) Study for a 16.7-mile stretch of the corridor.
The study focuses on S.R. 70 from west of S.R. 31 to the SE Highlands County Line Road. FDOT is evaluating the transition of the current two-lane undivided highway into a four-lane divided roadway.
Proposed Improvements
Beyond increasing vehicle capacity, the study is investigating several key infrastructure upgrades:
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Safety Enhancements: Intersection improvements and bridge replacements.
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Environmental Impact: New stormwater management systems and dedicated wildlife crossings.
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Multi-modal Access: New accommodations for both bicyclists and pedestrians.
How to Participate
FDOT is offering two ways for the public to view the plans and provide formal comments. The information presented at both sessions will be identical.
In-Person Hearing
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Date: Thursday, January 8, 2026
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Location: Turner Agri-Civic Center (2250 NE Roan St., Arcadia, FL)
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Schedule: * 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Open House
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6:00 p.m. Formal Presentation and Public Comment Period
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Virtual Hearing
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Date: Tuesday, January 13, 2026
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Format: Live online session (Registration details available via FDOT District One)
The PD&E study is a critical step in the process, ensuring that the proposed widening (FPID 451942-1-22-01) meets the future transportation needs of the region while minimizing impacts on the local environment.
