Storm delays TIA ramp debut

TAMPA -- Overnight rains have delayed the debut of two new ramps for traffic exiting Tampa International Airport.

The ramps, slated to open to motorists this morning, will instead open Saturday, Florida Department of Transportation officials said in a news release.

The first ramp exits to westbound State Road 60. DOT officials say that ramp will be the preferred ramp to use to access the Veterans Expressway and roads north of the Courtney Campbell Parkway.

The existing ramp to westbound SR 60, meanwhile, will remain open. DOT officials say that ramp will be the best choice for traffic heading to the Courtney Campbell Causeway toward Clearwater.

The second ramp includes what DOT officials call the "flyover bridge" that crosses over all lanes of SR 60. Motorists leaving the airport heading to eastbound SR 60 and I-275 will use the new bridge, which spans 2,096 feet.

After crossing SR 60, motorists will enter a loop ramp under the bridge, placing them on a temporary ramp onto eastbound SR 60 towards I-275 and Kennedy Boulevard, DOT officials said.

A connection from the flyover ramp to the west end of Cypress Street also will be opened, allowing exiting airport traffic to access that section of the Westshore area, officials said.

Confused?  DOT officials recommend drivers pay special attention to road signs.

Casey Cora, Times staff writer