The Sumter County Board of Commissioners has announced that improvements will begin this week at a notorious intersection.

The upgrade is part of the county’s plan to improve roadway safety, reduce congestion, and enhance overall travel conditions at U.S. 301 and County Road 472. The project is anticipated to be completed by Nov.  25.

The intersection has been the scene of some horrific crashes in recent years:

• In 2025, a driver was killed at the intersection after he was involved in a crash and ejected through the car’s sunroof.

The driver of his silver Lexus was ejected through the sunroof when the vehicle rolled over after a crash on U.S. 301
The driver of his silver Lexus was fatally ejected through the sunroof when the vehicle rolled over after a crash on U.S. 301.

• In September, a man riding an E-bicycle died in a crash with a semi.

• An 81-year-old Villager died as a result of a horrific crash in 2021 at the intersection. Her 87-year-old husband, who had been driving, died a few months later of a broken heart.

Villagers Cornelius and Catherine Barnard were extricated from this vehicle after the crash
Villagers Cornelius and Catherine Barnard were extricated from this vehicle after the crash in 2021. She died soon after the crash. He died months later of a “broken heart.”

• Kathryn Leigh Thurgaland, 18, of Ocklawaha, and her 19-year-old boyfriend from Summerfield were killed in a crash Oct. 10, 2020 at that intersection.

The project will include a range of improvements, such as updated traffic signal systems, enhanced pedestrian features, including a sidewalk and a curb ramp, the addition of a westbound left-turn lane along County Road 472, and the addition of a northbound right-turn lane along U.S. 301. These enhancements, funded by road impact fees, are designed to increase visibility, improve traffic efficiency, and create safer traveling conditions for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

Construction will take place in seven phases to minimize disruption. In the beginning phases, motorists should expect temporary lane closures during off-peak hours and possible delays in the affected area. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, follow posted signage, allow extra travel time, and use caution when traveling through the construction zone.

“This project reflects our long-term vision for a smarter, safer, and more connected community. We’re not just fixing intersections—we’re building a safer transportation network for years to come,” said Shailesh Patel, assistant public works director – construction engineering and inspection. “We appreciate the community’s patience as we work to create a more efficient intersection for everyone.”