Ten-Week Closure and Detours Anticipated for H.L. Smith Road

Development of new roads and utilities will be behind a lengthy disruption to traffic in an area between Dundee and Lake Wales, according to county officials.

H.L. Smith Road is expected to be closed through at least mid-July, according to county officials, leading to a lengthy detour for some.

Starting Wednesday, May1, installation of a water main for a new subdivision and related road reconstruction will close H.L. Smith Road just north of the Lake Mabel Loop Road intersection for 10 weeks.

Traffic will be briefly detoured along Lake Swan Road or Lake Mabel Loop Road to Lake Trask Road to bypass work zone. Access to local residences will be maintained during the closure, according to Bill Skelton of the Polk County Roads & Drainage Division.

Minor delays are possible, especially during peak-hour traffic along Lake Trask Road at Dundee Ridge Academy during student drop-offs and pickups in the mornings and afternoons.

Commuters are advised to drive with caution, be alert to detour signs, and to add extra drive time to trips through this area.