The top administrator in Sumter County is praising The Villages for stepping up to ease traffic flow.

Sumter County is advancing plans to widen Central Parkway from old County Road 470 to U.S. 301, a project designed to improve connectivity and address increasing traffic demands in this growing area.

The Villages has agreed to pay $27 million for the project with Sumter County reimbursing construction costs 15 years later with no interest. The fourth amendment to The Villages Companies Regional Road Agreement allows the project to move forward now while maintaining long-term fiscal responsibility for the county.

The timing of the project is particularly important as it supports the coordination with the widening of U.S. 301 by the Florida Department of Transportation, helping minimize disruptions and ensuring roadway improvements are completed in a strategic and efficient manner.

“Traffic is a challenge in this area during peak travel times,” said Sumter County Administrator Bradley Arnold.  “We appreciate The Villages Companies amending the agreement to include this project. This amendment helps the County from a timing standpoint by advancing the project schedule to align with the U.S. 301 improvements.”

Design for the Central Parkway widening project is scheduled to be completed in early 2027. The overall project, including construction, is expected to be completed before the end of 2028.

Central Parkway Map
The Villages will foot the construction bill for a $27-million widening of Central Parkway to U.S. 301.

The widening also supports the timing of the realignment of Central Parkway west of U.S. 301 that is also under design for construction concurrent with the widening of U.S. 301.

Sumter County will oversee the design, right-of-way acquisition as needed, and pre-construction permitting for the project, ensuring it meets all regulatory requirements before construction begins.

“This coordinated effort represents an initiative-taking approach to infrastructure planning, helping the county keep pace with growth while improving safety, mobility, and overall travel efficiency for the community,” the county said in press release touting the project.