🚧 Why So Many Roads Are Under Construction in Naples Right Now — And What It Means for Your Commute

If it feels like every major drive in North Naples comes with cones, crews, or lane shifts, you’re not wrong. A wave of infrastructure projects is officially underway across Transportation District 3, targeting some of the area’s most congested corridors.

The goal isn’t cosmetic. These projects are designed to fix long-standing bottlenecks, improve pedestrian safety, and prepare Naples for continued growth — even if the short-term pain is very real.

Here’s a clear, no-nonsense breakdown of what’s happening, where it’s happening, and why it matters.

Vanderbilt Beach Road & Logan Boulevard: A Major Intersection Overhaul

Construction has officially kicked off at the busy intersection of Vanderbilt Beach Road and Logan Boulevard, one of North Naples’ most heavily traveled junctions.

This project goes far beyond resurfacing.

What’s changing:

• Traffic signals are being upgraded from span wire to mast arms, improving reliability during storms

• A free-flow right-turn lane is being added for southbound Logan Boulevard traffic

• Vanderbilt Beach Road will gain a second left-turn lane heading south onto Logan

• Logan Boulevard lanes south of the intersection are being widened to receive increased turning traffic

• Corner islands are being constructed to shorten pedestrian crossing distances and improve safety

Project details:

• Contractor: Quality Enterprises USA, Inc.

• Cost: $6.05 million

• Status: Utility relocations are underway

• Expect intermittent lane closures as construction progresses

Why it matters: This intersection has long been a congestion hotspot. These upgrades are designed to reduce backups during peak hours while making crossings safer for pedestrians.

Collier Boulevard & City Gate Boulevard North: New Traffic Signal Coming

Another high-growth area is seeing improvements at Collier Boulevard and City Gate Boulevard North, where a full signalization project is about to move into active construction.

Project includes:

• Installation of a new traffic signal

• Roadway geometry modifications

• Updated signage and pavement markings

• New electrical and signal infrastructure

Project details:

• Contractor: Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC

• Cost: $1.97 million

• Construction start: Early January, once ordered materials arrive

Why it matters: As surrounding development continues, this signal will help manage traffic flow and significantly improve safety at the intersection.

Oakes Boulevard: Why It Looks Like a Widening Project

Drivers along Oakes Boulevard have noticed construction activity that looks like preparation for a four-lane expansion. In reality, this project is focused on mobility and safety, not a full roadway widening.

What’s planned:

• New sidewalk segments along portions of the corridor

• Reconstruction of the existing multi-use path

• Drainage and utility improvements

• A new roundabout at Spanish Oakes Lane

Why it matters: While it may resemble widening work, the goal here is to improve pedestrian and cyclist access while calming traffic — not turning Oakes Boulevard into a highway.

Massey Street Connection: Opening Pushed to 2026

The long-anticipated Massey Street connection to Vanderbilt Beach Road is nearly complete — but it’s staying closed for now.

Current status:

• Massey Street construction itself is finished

• The connection remains closed due to active water main tie-ins

• Reconstruction is still underway along Old Vanderbilt Beach Road west of Greyhawk

New target opening: March 2026

Why it matters: Keeping the connection closed avoids unsafe conditions while critical utility and roadway work is completed.

The Big Picture for Naples Drivers

Taken together, these projects show a clear strategy:

• Fix high-traffic choke points

• Improve pedestrian safety

• Modernize aging intersections

• Prepare infrastructure for long-term growth

Yes, the detours and delays are frustrating. But once completed, these upgrades are expected to deliver smoother commutes, safer crossings, and better traffic flow across North Naples.