Orlando welcomes around 74 million visitors each year, and those who head towards Disney World will experience the magic of the Interstate-4 Ultimate Improvement Project.
This extensive reconstruction project covers 21 miles from near Universal Orlando Resort to just north of Longwood.
Launched in April 2014, the project, which cost $2.87 billion, was the largest public-private partnership in the United States at that time. It introduced four dynamic toll express lanes, rebuilt general use lanes, and reconstructed 15 major interchanges.
The scope was immense, encompassing the widening of 13 bridges and the replacement of 74 others, along with the addition of 53 new bridges. This is why it is our No. 3 road of the year.
“The I-4 Ultimate project was a monumental effort that took a world-class team. The Florida Department of Transportation is glad to see that hard work recognized with this award,” said FDOT District Five Secretary John E. Tyler, P.E. “This project reshaped a 21-mile stretch of I-4 through downtown Orlando and its neighboring communities and was the largest construction project in FDOT’s history. The safety and mobility benefits that this project created will be felt for generations to come here in Central Florida.”
Prior to construction, I-4 was plagued by severe congestion. It handled between 121,500 and 183,000 vehicles daily, which far exceeded its capacity. Certain segments were notorious for bottlenecks, especially the infamous "Fairbanks Curve," where numerous accidents occurred, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
The situation had become untenable, impacting the 2.7 million residents who relied on this corridor for commuting, leisure and essential trips.
The I-4 Ultimate project was devised as a comprehensive solution to these challenges. By introducing express lanes and improving interchange capacities, the project is expected to increase average travel speeds by approximately 15 miles per hour during peak hours in the general use lanes. Safety enhancements, such as wider shoulders and the removal of weaving sections, are projected to reduce crashes by about 13%.
Community engagement was pivotal throughout the project. Stakeholders were kept informed through dedicated communication channels, allowing for feedback and fostering a sense of ownership. The project also incorporated local aesthetics and featured colorful LED lighting and art installations, creating a sense of pride among residents.
Technological advancements played a crucial role in the project’s execution. Tools like Bluebeam Studio enabled real-time collaboration among design teams, streamlining the review process and reducing conflicts. During construction, the Plan Grid platform facilitated efficient communication of revisions to field crews, ensuring that changes were implemented swiftly.
The design phase involved meticulous planning and coordination among various firms, split into four distinct areas. This approach allowed for focused management and expedited progress. The project's success hinged on collaboration between HDR Engineering, Skanska USA, and other partners, ensuring that expertise was leveraged at every stage.
As the project neared completion, traffic flow improved, as did safety. It also introduced aesthetic enhancements that elevate the overall experience of traveling on I-4. The inclusion of native landscaping and artistic features contributes to a more inviting corridor for drivers and local communities alike.
With an expected economic impact of $1.8 billion and the creation of around 2,000 jobs, the new Ultimate I-4 paves the way for a brighter future for Central Florida.
“This massive undertaking expanded capacity, enhanced safety features and reduced congestion in response to Central Florida's growing visitor and residential population,” said Brook Brookshire, senior vice president and general manager, Skanksa USA. “The project has significantly improved commutes, ensuring a more efficient and reliable travel experience for all.”
Project: Ultimate I-4 Improvement Project
Location: Orlando, Fla.
Owners: Florida Department of Transportation District 5
Designer: HDR/ Jacobs Design Joint Venture (DJV)
Contractor: SGL, Inc. (Skanska, Granite, Lane)
Cost: $2.87 Billion
Length: 21 miles
