Lutz-area drivers who use Gunn Highway near the Pasco County line will need to find another way starting on or after Monday, Oct. 12.

Hillsborough County plans to shut down a stretch of Gunn Highway between Van Dyke Road and Lutz Lake Fern Road for up to 28 days to replace an aging stormwater culvert near 18830 Gunn Highway. About 20,000 vehicles travel through the work area each day, Bay News 9 reported, citing county data.

Culvert Replacement Project Explained

The project is part of Hillsborough County's Culvert Renewal and Replacement Program, according to a county news release. Crews will remove an existing 5-by-10-foot box culvert and install two 53-by-83-inch elliptical reinforced concrete pipes. The county's Public Works Department said the current culvert is nearing the end of its lifespan and must be replaced to prevent a potential failure.

Project Cost Estimated at $1.3 Million

The Tampa Bay Beacons reported the project is estimated to cost about $1.3 million.

Detour Routes During the Closure

During the closure, drivers will be detoured to Lutz Lake Fern Road, Dale Mabry Highway and Van Dyke Road. The Veterans Expressway is also an option, though regular tolls apply. Message boards along the detour route will display updated information at least seven days before the closure begins, and the county said it will share detour details with navigation apps.

County Hopes to Finish Ahead of Schedule

Hillsborough County Project Manager Samir Ahmed told Bay News 9 that crews hope to finish ahead of schedule. "We're going to try to expedite the project if possible," Ahmed said.

Bad Weather Could Extend the Timeline

Bad weather could extend the closure. Crews may also work weekends to speed up construction, according to Bay News 9.

Public Open House and Comment Period

The county is holding a public open house on the project at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15, at Walker Middle Magnet School, 8282 N. Mobley Road, Odessa. Public comments are being accepted online through Monday, Sept. 21, at publicinput.com/gunnculvertrepair.

Contact Information for Residents

Residents with questions can email Hillsborough County Public Works at [email protected] or call 813-635-5400.