By Roger Jimenez
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is making significant strides in improving the I-4 corridor, thanks to the ambitious project that began in 2020 - I-4 Beyond the Ultimate Project. While construction is well underway in Orange and Osceola counties, some noteworthy achievements have already been unveiled in Seminole County.
Innovative Interchanges and Enhanced Connection
One noteworthy milestone is the introduction of an innovative Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) at the intersection of Interstate 4 (I-4) and County Road (C.R.) 532 near Champions Gate. This DDI promises smoother traffic flow and improved safety for commuters. Furthermore, cyclists and pedestrians will appreciate the new bike lanes and sidewalks along C.R. 532, fostering better connectivity and safety.
Revamping Key Overpasses
The transformation of the Daryl Carter Parkway overpass into a DDI has commenced. Spanning I-4 between Central Florida Parkway and S.R. 535, this overpass will become a partial interchange, with three new ramps enhancing accessibility to and from eastbound and westbound I-4.
The Sand Lake Road interchange is also in line for a DDI makeover, set to begin in late 2023. This upgrade, accompanied by additional capacity improvements at Turkey Lake Road, aims to alleviate congestion. Additionally, both projects at the Daryl Carter Parkway and Sand Lake Road interchanges will contribute to constructing segments of a new managed lane on I-4.
Completion of Earlier Projects
Seminole County has seen the completion of certain projects initiated in 2019:
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The reconstruction of the E.E. Williamson Road overpass is now complete.
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A new eastbound I-4 auxiliary lane, stretching from the eastern edge of the I-4 Ultimate Project to Lake Mary Boulevard, has been successfully constructed.
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Milling and resurfacing work has concluded for both directions of I-4 in Seminole County.
These developments represent substantial progress towards building a better I-4, enhancing transportation, and addressing the needs of Florida's growing communities.
Expanding Capacity for a Smoother Ride
Capacity expansion is another key focus of this project:
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Westbound I-4 is set to receive a new auxiliary lane, commencing at the State Road (S.R.) 429 entrance ramp and transitioning into an exit-only lane onto C.R. 532.
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Similarly, eastbound I-4 will gain a new auxiliary lane, starting at the C.R. 532 entrance ramp and concluding as an exit-only lane onto S.R. 429.
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The section of S.R. 429 between I-4 and Sinclair Road is undergoing milling and resurfacing.
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Northbound S.R. 429 is being equipped with a new auxiliary lane leading to Sinclair Road.
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The lifespan of I-4, from the Osceola/Polk County line to just west of S.R. 417, is being extended through new pavement.
For more updates on the project, feel free to sign up for more at https://i4beyond.com/news-media-resources/
Overall
Innovative designs, like the Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI), are improving traffic patterns, while new auxiliary lanes and resurfacing efforts promise smoother journeys. Completed projects in Seminole County are already delivering improved connectivity. Transformative changes, including the reconstruction of overpasses like Daryl Carter Parkway and Sand Lake Road, are set to alleviate congestion and enhance accessibility. As construction advances, it highlights the commitment to creating a more efficient, safer, and forward-thinking I-4 for Florida's residents and visitors alike.
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