Page Eleven: 54 Av S and the Pinellas Bayway (FL 682) (Exit 17)

Constructed in 1983 the ninth segment of Interstate 275 takes the highway to 54 Av S and provides access to St. Pete Beach and Fort DeSoto Park via the Pinellas Bayway.  The southbound exit from and the northbound entrance to Interstate 275 at Exit 17 is accomplished via ramp connections at 54 Av S as well as a dedicated flyover ramp connecting the Pinellas Bayway directly.  On the other hand, southbound entrance to and northbound exit from Interstate 275 at Exit 17 is provided by a connection to 34 St S (also known as US 19) which provides access to 54 Av S, the Pinellas Bayway as well as 34 St S. The 34 St S connection was constructed as part of the next segment with Pinellas Point Drive South.  Eckerd College, a private 4-year college, is reached using the Pinellas Bayway exit.

Interstate 275 Southbound at Exit 17

Advance signage for the Pinellas Bayway coming up in 3/4 mile.  In addition to Bradenton as a control city on Interstate 275 south, we get our first announcement that the Sunshine Skyway Bridge is ahead.

More advance signage for both 54 Av S and the Pinellas Bayway.  Notice the dedicated right exit only lane.

Final opportunity to exit Interstate 275 at Exit 17.  Notice that the right lane of Interstate 275 is used for exit.

Once you exit at Exit 17 you have a choice, either the Pinellas Bayway or 54 Av S.

Interstate 275 Northbound at Exit 17

Advance signage for Exit 17 as we cross Pinellas Point Dr S.  Notice the left exit advisory flanking either side of the 1/2 Mile message.

Diagrammatic signage for US 19 North (34 St S) and 54 Av S.

Additional signage for Exit 17 showing the left lane exit.  This was taken from the on-ramp from Pinellas Point Dr S as Exits 17 and 16 were constructed to prevent any weaving due to the short distance of the two exits.

Final opportunity to exit Interstate 275 northbound at Exit 17. 

Perspective of Interstate 275 at Exit 17

Advance signage on 54 Av S eastbound for Interstate 275 and 34 St S.