Published: October 1, 2024
Bartow, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2024) — Previously postponed due to Hurricane Helene, CSX Transportation (CSXT) will close Saddle Creek Road starting tomorrow morning, Oct. 2, at its rail crossing by the Saddle Creek Distribution Warehouse complex located a quarter-mile west Fish Hatchery Road in the Combee area of Lakeland. The two-day closure is needed to repair an “identified track defect,” with Saddle Creek Road scheduled to reopen on Thursday afternoon, Oct. 3.
Saddle Creek Road traffic will detour along Combee Road (State Road 659) or Fish Hatchery Road to U.S. Highway 92 to bypass rail work zone. Detour will increase congestion and travel delays, especially during peak-hour traffic. Local commuters can seek alternate routes to lessen delays. Motorists are advised to drive carefully and add extra time to trips through this area.
For more details, contact Bill Skelton with the Polk County Roads & Drainage Division at (863) 535-2200. Anyone wanting to report a public road rail crossing issue or complaint should call CSX at 1-800-232-0144 or email them at TellCSX@csx.com.