Often referred to as the missing link, the recently completed Andrews Avenue extension project in Pompano Beach is officially, connected.

The extension connects the north and southbound lanes on Andrews Avenue from Atlantic Boulevard to Copans Road while also over passing Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

“It’s been nearly 20 years [since planning began],” said Barbara Kelleher, public information director for the Florida Department of Transportation’s district four. “It’s great to have it finally done for people to drive on.”

The planning phases and project development began in 1990, but construction did not begin on the nearly $30 million project until July 2006, Kelleher said.

Along with the accessibility the project will allow for residents and drivers in the area, Pompano Beach City Commissioner Woodrow Poitier said the extension will also allow for more old and new businesses to be exposed along the corridor.

“That’s a good thing,” he said. “It’s showing what’s available.”

With more than two years of waiting for the project and having to deal with roadblocks and detours, Poitier said the relief and excitement of knowing the project is finished is a plus for people in area.

“I think residents are going to love it,” he said.