FDOT is preparing design plans for the construction of a new fixed-span bridge over the St. Johns River. The project limits are along State Road (S.R.) 44 from west of County Road (C.R.) 42 in Lake County to east of Ed Stone Park in Volusia County. The total project length is approximately 0.5 miles. The proposed improvements include reconstructing the two-lane rural roadway bridge approaches through the project limits, south of the existing bridge. In addition, the signal at the S.R. 44 and C.R. 42 intersection will be replaced and the access road to Pier 44 Marina will be relocated. Access changes to Ed Stone Park, St. Johns Marina, Old New York Avenue, and Shady Oaks will be included as part of this design project. Improvements also include new stormwater ponds and safety enhancements. The bridge will be designed to accommodate a future 12-foot multi-use trail. The proposed improvements will enhance safety and access along S.R. 44. This design project is scheduled for completion in Spring 2018. Right-of-way acquisition for this project is currently funded in Fiscal Years (FY) 2018 and 2019. Construction of this project is currently funded in FY 2020. The Financial Project ID (FPID) number is: 429556-1-52-01. The purpose of this public hearing is to present information and receive public input regarding the proposed design. It begins with an open house at 5:30 p.m., when participants may review project information and discuss the project with staff. There is a brief presentation at 6:30 p.m., after which participants may provide comments to all present. The hearing ends at 7:30 p.m. Staff members will be available to discuss the project and answer any questions before and after the presentation. Participants may provide public comment directly to a court reporter at any time during the hearing. Written comments can be submitted at this hearing, by mail to Kathleen Enot, FDOT Project Manager, 719 South Woodland Boulevard, MS 542, DeLand, FL 32720 or by e-mail to kathleen.enot@dot.state.fl.us no later than Friday, September 8, 2017. All comments, written and oral, will become part of the project’s public record.