Collier’s First Diverging Diamond Interchange Begins Construction — Opening Expected 2027

Construction is officially underway on Collier County’s very first Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI), aimed at alleviating congestion and boosting safety at the intersection of I-75 and Pine Ridge Road. The $27.5 million project is expected to conclude by mid-2027, marking a significant infrastructure upgrade for Naples and its growing traffic demands.

What’s Being Built

The scope of work includes a full conversion of the existing interchange into a DDI configuration, complete reconstruction of entrance and exit ramps, new signalization at ramp junctions, pedestrian and bicycle accommodations, and resurfacing of Pine Ridge Road through the project zone. One immediate impact: the northbound I-75 off-ramp at Pine Ridge is scheduled for overnight closures to allow crews to install drainage and other infrastructure elements.

Timeline & Cost

• Construction began in March 2025.

• The project’s completion is targeted for mid-2027.

• The budget is approximately $27.5 million.

Why the DDI?

A DDI is designed to reduce conflict points, improve traffic flow through left turns, and enhance safety by simplifying some crossing movements. The design shifts crossing traffic to the left side of the road briefly, so turning left onto and off of the freeway becomes more direct. For Pine Ridge Road, where congestion and turning delays have been frequent, the DDI is expected to bring noticeable relief.

Also part of the plan is preserving multimodal access: signals, crosswalks, and bike lanes are integrated to maintain safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

Impacts & Considerations

• Traffic Disruptions: Commuters should expect intermittent overnight closures, ramp delays, and lane shifts as work progresses.

• Safety Improvements: The reduction in conflict points may lower crash risk.

• Long-term Capacity: The design is intended to scale for increased traffic volumes, accommodating growth in the Naples region.

• Community Coordination: Local residents, businesses, and commuters will need clear communication about closures, detours, and timing.