Drivers in Oakland Park should prepare for temporary closures of Park Lane East and Oakland Park Boulevard due to railway crossing rehabilitation work

Oakland Park, Florida – Drivers in Oakland Park should prepare for detours and possible delays later this month as the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) begins rehabilitation work at Florida East Coast Railway (FEC) crossings. The project, located just east of North Dixie Highway, will require two separate road closures on Park Lane East and Oakland Park Boulevard.

According to FDOT, Park Lane East, also known as NE 38th Street, will be the first to close. Crews will shut down the roadway beginning at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22, and it will remain closed until 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 25. Immediately following that work, Oakland Park Boulevard will close from Saturday, October 25, at 6 p.m. until Tuesday, October 28, at 12 a.m. If crews need additional time to finish, the closure could be extended through Wednesday, October 29, at 8 p.m.

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The purpose of these closures is to complete essential maintenance and upgrades on the railway crossing, ensuring the safety and reliability of one of the region’s busiest corridors. FDOT officials say the work cannot be completed safely without restricting traffic during this period.

While Park Lane East detour information will be released separately, FDOT has already outlined the detour plan for Oakland Park Boulevard. Westbound drivers will be directed to go south on U.S. 1, turn right (west) onto NE 26th Street, and then turn right (north) onto North Dixie Highway before rejoining Oakland Park Boulevard. Eastbound traffic will follow the opposite path: turning right (south) onto North Dixie Highway, left (east) at NE 26th Street, and left (north) onto U.S. 1 to return to Oakland Park Boulevard.

Officials are urging motorists to plan ahead and allow extra travel time. The detours will add several minutes to commutes, especially during peak hours when traffic volume is highest. FDOT also advises drivers to watch for posted signs and follow instructions from law enforcement and construction crews in the area.

“Drivers should plan ahead, expect delays, and use alternate routes. We thank our residents for their patience and understanding as these improvements are completed,” FDOT said in its advisory.

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Railway rehabilitation projects are critical to maintaining safe crossings for both vehicles and trains. Over time, wear and tear at rail intersections can create uneven surfaces, leading to safety risks and uncomfortable driving conditions. By shutting down traffic temporarily, crews can repair tracks, replace worn materials, and ensure smoother travel for years to come.

Although the closures may cause inconvenience in the short term, FDOT emphasizes that the improvements are necessary and will benefit the entire community once complete. Residents and commuters are encouraged to monitor FDOT’s official updates for any changes to the schedule or detour routes.