Road Construction Spots To Watch This Week
January 11, 2026
Drivers will encounter traffic disruptions on the following state roads and projects in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as crews perform construction and maintenance activities.
Escambia County:
- Interstate 10 (I-10) Resurfacing, from east of U.S. 29 to east of Davis Highway (State Road (S.R.) 291) – Drivers on I-10 may encounter intermittent lane closures between mile markers 11 and 14, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., for milling and paving operations.
- Interstate 110 (I-110) Resurfacing from I-10 to U.S. 98 – Drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on I-110, between I-10 and U.S. 98, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., for construction activities.
- S.R. 289 (Ninth Avenue) Resurfacing from Creighton Road (S.R. 274) to Olive Road - Drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on Ninth Avenue, between Creighton Road and Olive Road, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., for paving operations and placement of thermoplastic striping.
- Brent Lane/Bayou Boulevard (S.R. 296) Resurfacing, from Davis Highway (S.R. 291) to Baisden Road – Drivers may encounter the following traffic disruptions, Monday, Jan. 12 through Friday, Jan. 16, between 8 p.m. and 5:30 a.m., for drainage improvements, concrete flatwork and paving operations:
- Intermittent lane closures on Brent Lane/Bayou Boulevard, from Davis Highway to Baisden Road.
- On-street parking closures on Bayou Boulevard, between 12th Avenue and Baisden Road.
- S.R. 296 (Michigan Avenue) Resurfacing from Mobile Highway (U.S. 90) to North Palafox Street (U.S. 29) – The week of Sunday, Jan. 11, drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on Michigan Avenue, from Mobile Highway to North Palafox Street, between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m., for paving operations and placement of thermoplastic striping.
- S.R. 292 (Gulf Beach Highway) Resurfacing from Gulf Beach Highway to Manchester Street – The week of Sunday, Jan. 11, drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on S.R. 292 from east of Bauer Road (County Road (C.R.) 293) to Manchester Street, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., for construction activities. Additionally, a new traffic configuration has been implemented on S.R. 292 between Mills Avenue and just east of Patton Drive, with travel lanes shifted to the outside of the roadway to provide space to construct a median traffic separator. Channelizing devices are in place to delineate the work zone. The speed limit has been reduced to 35 mph throughout the work zone.
- Business U.S. 98 (Garden Street) Construction from Pace Boulevard to the I- 110 ramp – The week of Sunday, Jan. 11, drivers may encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- Garden Street, between Pace Boulevard and N. Donelson Street, is reduced to two travel lanes (one in each direction), as crews perform construction activities on the south side of the street. This temporary traffic configuration will be in place through early 2026.
- Temporary side street closures south of Garden Street, from B Street to J Street, for stormwater management upgrades. This week, drivers may encounter a closure with detour at H Street. Signage will be in place to direct drivers through the work zone.
- On-street parking is closed on the south side of Garden Street, between B Street and L Street. Additionally, periodic on-street parking closures will occur on Garden Street, between A Street and Alcaniz Street, for sidewalk and crosswalk improvements.
- I-10 at Nine Mile Road Interchange (Exit 5) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- Intermittent I-10 inside lane closures near the Nine Mile Road interchange, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Nine Mile Road will be reduced to one travel lane in each direction between the I-10 ramps, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Friday, Jan. 16, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Law enforcement will be on site, and directional signage will be in place to guide drivers through the work zone.
- I-10 at U.S. 29 Interchange (Exit 10) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- I-10 westbound traffic will be reduced to one travel lane and shifted south near mile marker 10, Monday, Jan. 12 through Thursday, Jan. 15, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., for construction activities.
- Intermittent lane closures may occur on North Palafox Street between Whitehead Drive and Hope Drive for construction at the North Palafox Street overpass. Flaggers will be present to direct traffic through the work zone.
- I-10 is reduced to two travel lanes in each direction between U.S. 29 and I-110.
- I-10 travel lanes are shifted away from the median area of the roadway, near the U.S. 29 interchange.
- The U.S. 29 southbound access to the I-10 eastbound on-ramp has been reduced.
- The U.S. 29 northbound ramp to I-10 eastbound is closed. U.S. 29 northbound drivers are being detoured to make a U-turn at Broad Street onto U.S. 29 southbound to access I-10 eastbound.
- U.S. 29 Routine Underground Utility Maintenance at Muscogee Road – Motorists may encounter intermittent turn lane closures Thursday, Jan. 15 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for underground utility maintenance.
- S.R. 291 (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Drive) Routine Underground Utility Maintenance at East Avery Street – Motorists may encounter intermittent lane closures Monday, Jan. 12 through Friday, Jan. 16 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. for underground utility maintenance.
Santa Rosa County:
- U.S. 98 Widening from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive – Motorists will encounter the following traffic impacts:
- Median and turn-lane closures from Bayshore Road to Tiger Lake Drive.
- Intermittent lane closures and additional median closures between Bayshore Road and Tiger Lake Drive, Sunday, Jan. 11, through Friday, Jan. 16, from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. for paving operations.
- U.S. 90 Resurfacing from Escambia River Bridge to east of Woodbine Road (C.R. 197A) – Drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on U.S. 90, from the Escambia River Bridge to Woodbine Road, Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, between 7 p.m. and 5:30 a.m., for milling and paving operations. Additionally, the speed limit has been reduced to 45 mph through the work zone.
- S.R. 87 Resurfacing from U.S. 98 to south of East Bay Boulevard (C.R. 399) –Drivers will encounter intermittent lane closures Sunday, Jan. 11 through Thursday, Jan. 15, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., for paving operations.
- S.R. 281 (Avalon Boulevard) Bridge Rehabilitation over East Bay - Motorists may encounter intermittent lane closures Monday, Jan. 12 through Friday, Jan. 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for construction operations.
- U.S. 90 Turn Lane Operations just west of Stewart Street – Motorists may encounter intermittent lane closures Monday, Jan. 12 through Friday, Jan. 16 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for construct of left turn lane.
All activities are weather dependent and may be delayed or rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.
Escambia County EMS Nick Watley Paramedic Earns Top State Honor
January 10, 2026
Escambia County EMS Paramedic Supervisor Nick Watley has been named the 2025 Paramedic of the Year by the Florida Department of Health, selected from paramedics throughout the state nominated for the annual FDOH Excellence in Emergency Medical Services Awards. Watley was recognized at an awards ceremony this week in Orlando.
“On behalf of my family and my team at Escambia County EMS, I’m honored and humbled to be recognized as the Paramedic of the Year by the Florida Department of Health,” Watley said. “While this is an individual recognition, this award was made possible due to the men and women I have the pleasure of serving with. I couldn’t be prouder of what this organization has accomplished and what we will continue to accomplish in 2026.”
The Paramedic of the Year award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional qualities in several areas including patient care, quality assurance, medical control, disaster preparedness, public education and training. The award also recognizes a paramedic who has acted above and beyond the call of duty in the EMS profession and in their community.
For more than 30 years, the Florida Department of Health Excellence in Emergency Medical Services Awards have recognized men and women who provide lifesaving services in times of crisis. The awards pay tribute to the brave medical professionals and agencies that ensure the public’s health and safety in times of an emergency.
In addition to his statewide recognition as the 2025 Paramedic of the Year, Watley was named the April 2025 Employee of the Month by the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners for his leadership and commitment to providing the best possible service and care for patients.
Watley began his public safety career in 2006 as a firefighter and EMT in Selma, Alabama before joining Escambia County EMS as a paramedic in May 2020. He was promoted to paramedic supervisor in January 2022, where he manages an entire shift of ambulances and guides dozens of paramedics and EMTs, providing the necessary coordination and support that allows them to be successful.
“Paramedic Supervisor Watley is well-deserving of this honor,” EMS Chief Chris Watts said. “Through his unwavering dedication, selfless sacrifice, and a deep commitment to our community, Nick Watley exemplifies excellence in service. His compassion in patient care and willingness to go beyond what is required leave a lasting impact on every life he touches. Paramedic Supervisor Watley personifies the values of EMS and the mission of Escambia County Public Safety.”
Pictured top: Escambia County EMS Paramedic Supervisor Nick Watley. Pictured inset: Escambia County Medical Director Dr. Ben Abo, Paramedic Supervisor Nick Watley, and EMS Chief Chris Watts. Pictured below: Escambia County EMS Paramedic Supervisor Nick Watley is recognized as Paramedic of the Year at the FDOH Excellence in EMS Awards Ceremony Wednesday, Jan. 7 in Orlando, Florida. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Molino Man Facing Felony Drug, Weapon Charges After Traffic Stop
January 10, 2026
A Molino man is facing multiple felony charges after an Escambia County Sheriff’s deputy initiated a traffic stop that led to the discovery of narcotics and a loaded firearm.
Ricardo John Molina, 35, was arrested following the incident near the intersection of Mobile Highway and Edison Drive. He was charged with possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
According to an arrest report, an ECSO deputy was patrolling the area of South Madison Drive when he observed a vehicle approaching from behind with its high-beam headlights on. A second deputy, acting on the traffic violation, conducted a stop and identified the driver and Molina, who was riding as a rear passenger.
During the stop, K-9 Hura performed an open-air sniff of the vehicle and alerted deputies to the presence of drugs. A subsequent search of the back seat revealed a black bag where Molina had been sitting.
Inside the bag, deputies reported finding a Taurus .40 caliber handgun with a round in the chamber and eight rounds in the magazine, a clear plastic bag containing a crystal-like substance that field-tested positive for methamphetamine, and two glass smoking pipes containing burnt residue.
Molina reportedly admitted to deputies that he uses methamphetamine. While the firearm was present during the commission of a felony, a criminal history check confirmed that Molina is not a convicted felon.
Molina remained in the Escambia County Jail without bond.
The driver of the vehicle was issued a verbal warning for the traffic violation and released.
Escambia Chief Deputy Supervisor Of Elections Sonya Daniel Retires
January 10, 2026
Escambia County Chief Deputy Supervisor of Elections Sonya Daniel has retired.
With more than 30 years in public service, Daniel began her career as public information officer for the Ft. Pierce Police Department in 1994, then assumed that same role for St. Lucie County in 2000, before moving to Escambia County in 2002 to establish the Public Information Office for the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners. She managed public information for numerous hurricanes, the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, and now for multiple
controversial elections.
Daniel joined the Escambia County Supervisor of Elections Office in 2011 as the outreach and training coordinator. She was promoted to program coordinator in 2013, then to administrative deputy in 2015 and served as chief deputy to the supervisor of elections from 2023 to her retirement on January 5, 2026.
Her duties include managing all aspects of the elections office. She was known “hands-on” leader, working right alongside her team. She holds both state and national professional election certifications.
In 1996, she received her APR accreditation. In 2010, she returned to school to complete her master’s in strategic communications and leadership at the University of West Florida. She has been recognized by the Pensacola Chapter of FPRA three times as communicator of the year (2004, 2010, and 2021). Over the years she has served on several community boards including the 4-H Foundation, Council on Aging of West Florida, and UWF Alumni Board.
In her free time, she loves to travel and pursues creative crafts.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Portion of North Escambia Is Officially In A Moderate Drought
January 10, 2026
A large swath of the North Escambia area is in a moderate drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
While rain is on tap for Saturday, only a half inch or less is expected across the area.
The drought area includes McDavid, Walnut Hill, Bratt and Century.
Patronis Files Bills To Protect The Blue Angels From Government Shutdowns
January 10, 2026
Northwest Florida Congressman Jimmy Patronis has introduced the Special Operating Authority for Rehearsal (SOAR) Act, which is intended to protect the United States Navy Blue Angels during a federal government shutdown to ensure safety and readiness. He said this legislation will ensure Blue Angels airshows continue in the Pensacola region despite any Democratic shutdowns.
“This is home for the Blue Angels. Federal government shutdowns hurt our economy and undermine the men and women who serve our nation,” said Patronis. “The Blue Angels represent excellence, service, and unity, and they deserve stability and leadership that puts our nation and those who serve it first.”
During a recent shutdown, the Blue Angels were unable to perform their Homecoming Airshow due to a lack of funding for basic needs, such as fuel, aircraft maintenance, repairs, and required updates, which led to the cancellation of their homecoming air show and halted essential training.
To read the full text of the bill, click here.
Pictured: The 2024 Blue Angels Homecoming Show. NorthEscambia.com photos by Perry Doggrell, click to enlarge.
DeSantis Announced Appointment, Reappointment To UWF Board Of Trustees
January 10, 2026
Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday announced an appointment and reappointment to the University of West Florida Board of Trustees. The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Kevin Mason
Mason is the Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder of Acentria Insurance. Previously, he served as the Producer and Managing Partner of North Florida Operations for the Insurance Office of America. Mason earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from the University of West Florida.
Paul Bailey
Bailey is an Attorney for Welton Law Firm. He also serves as a Registered Instructor with the National Rifle Association and an Adjunct Professor at Pensacola Christian College. Bailey earned his bachelor’s degree in pre-law from Pensacola Christian College and his juris doctor from Regent University.
File photo.
High School Basketball Scoreboard Roundup
January 10, 2026
Here are high school basketball scores from the North Escambia area this week.
BOYS VARSITY
- Tate 68, Pensacola 63 (Thursday)
- Washington 75, Tate 65 (Tuesday)
- Ponce De Leon 73, Northview 33 (Friday)
- Laurel Hill 67, Northview 46 (Tuesday)
GIRLS VARSITY
- Pensacola Catholic 76, Tate 49 (Friday)
- Ponce De Leon 49, Northview 17 (Friday)
- Laurel Hill 72, Northview 5 (Tuesday)
ECSO: Foul Play Not Suspected After Missing Man, 72, Found Dead In Cantonment Creek
January 9, 2026
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office says foul play is not suspected in the death of a missing and endangered man who was found dead on Sunday in Cantonment.
The body of the 72-year-old man was found in a shallow creek off Calloway Street after he had been reported missing by a family member from his home on Ellington Street earlier in the day.
The ECSO said the man had been listed as missing and endangered due to a medical condition, and his death appeared to be natural.
File photo.
Global Engineering, Manufacturing Firm Selects Escambia County For U.S. Headquarters
January 9, 2026
The Escambia County Commission on Thursday night approved support for a tax exemption for a global aerospace company that will set up their United States headquarters in Escambia County. The Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemption (EDATE) is for up to 10 years.
Field International Group, a global engineering and manufacturing firm headquartered in the United Kingdom, has selected Escambia Count for its new American headquarters and manufacturing operation. Formerly referred to confidentially as “Project Britain”, the company will invest $8 million in capital expenditures and create 50 new jobs with an average annual wage of $80,000. A second phase of expansion is under consideration that it could
generate an additional $12 million and 50 jobs at similar wage levels, according to the FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance.
Field International provides precision engineering, tooling and ground support equipment for the aerospace, transport, energy and medical industries. Founded in the United Kingdom in 1995, the company has built a global footprint delivering design, manufacture, and onsite services for aerospace original equipment manufacturers, maintenance repair and overhaul operators, and related industrial clients. Field International’s capabilities include engineering design, precision machining, fabrication, tooling assembly and maintenance services. The company has operations in the United Kingdom, India, China and Singapore.
“Following a competitive evaluation of multiple regions, Field International selected Escambia County for its first U.S. headquarters and manufacturing operation,” said Mark Booker, Group CEO of Field International Group. “The county’s strategic location, business climate, corporate assets, and skilled workforce align well with our growth objectives in the North American market. The level of coordination and support provided by the local community and economic development partners has been world-class and was very instrumental to our decision.”
A relationship with the company was initiated by Florida’s Great Northwest, which played a central role in positioning the region as a competitive location to do business. FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance partnered closely with Florida’s Great Northwest to advance the project locally, with Escambia County ultimately prevailing against competing locations throughout the United States.
“Field International’s decision to establish operations in Escambia County reflects our competitiveness in attracting high wage, advanced manufacturing jobs and strengthening the community’s aerospace cluster,” stated Ashlee Hofberger, chair of the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners. “The Board of County Commissioners is honored to support this project and approved a Resolution of Support for an EDATE to help secure these jobs and
associated capital investment for our community.”
The first phase of Field International’s operation will focus on core engineering and manufacturing activities supporting aerospace tooling and ground support equipment. The company’s presence in Escambia County is expected to enhance the local manufacturing base and employment opportunities in precision engineering.
“FloridaWest congratulates Field International on its decision to locate in Escambia County,” said Chris Platé, chief executive officer of FloridaWest. “This project reinforces the county’s value proposition for global precision manufacturers seeking access to U.S. markets and reflects the effectiveness of coordinated regional business attraction. Successful outcomes like this are the result of strong public and private sector collaboration.”
“Field International’s investment marks a victory for regional collaboration and foreign direct investment,” said Jennifer Conoley, president and CEO of Florida’s Great Northwest. “This is the culmination of years of marketing Northwest Florida as a premier business hub worldwide, made possible only through strong local partnerships.”