Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Monday that congestion relief lanes along Interstate 4 from U.S. Route 27 in Polk County to World Drive in Osceola County will open the week of April 28, approximately eight months ahead of schedule.
The additional lanes, one in each direction, mark a major milestone in the state’s Moving Florida Forward initiative, which aims to reduce congestion and improve connectivity across the state.
“We launched Moving Florida Forward to accelerate major transportation projects, and today’s early completion shows we’re delivering results,” DeSantis said in a statement. “Since 2019, we’ve invested $75 billion in infrastructure with nearly 700 projects underway.”
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) used a modified phased design-build method to speed construction. The new lanes will remain open throughout ongoing construction on the 14-mile corridor between U.S. 27 and S.R. 536.
“This milestone is a tremendous testament to Governor DeSantis’ leadership and the industry’s commitment to Floridians,” said Jared W. Perdue, P.E., FDOT secretary, in a statement.
FDOT is also accelerating work at the C.R. 532 and World Drive interchanges and preparing to launch additional projects in the corridor, including new express lanes, interchange upgrades, and safety improvements.
This summer, FDOT will begin construction on the Poinciana Connector. The project will serve one of Central Florida’s fastest-growing areas.
Source: Wesh.com, Office of the Governor of Florida
