Numerous Corridor Improvements Already Available
The I-4 Ultimate project anticipates opening the new Interstate 4 (I-4) State Road (S.R.) 408 interchange to traffic summer 2020. Seven flyover ramps will modernize connections between Orlando’s two busiest roadways.
While the nearly complete downtown interchange is the crown jewel of the 21-mile rebuild, Central Florida motorists have already been reaping benefits of the I-4 overhaul. Thirteen miles of eastbound interstate lanes, from Anderson Street through the eastern project limits, are in their final footprint. Maitland Boulevard commuters now travel elevated lanes west of I-4, enabling them to bypass traffic signals at Lake Destiny Road, Keller Road and Maitland Summit Boulevard. The new Grand National Drive Overpass has provided congestion relief in the busy attractions area to Central Florida visitors since summer 2017.
To continue forward progress, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), along with I-4 Mobility Partners and its contractor SGL Constructors, is updating the project completion plans and schedule to help ensure work is completed safely and efficiently.
Plans include completing non-tolled general use lanes and interchange ramps ahead of managed lanes, to best serve the nearly 200,000 drivers who depend on I-4 daily. Motorists can expect to have an upgraded I-4 mainline complete with enhanced safety features including full-width travel lanes, shoulders, and increased capacity at 15 major interchanges in early 2021. These general use lane improvements remain consistent with original completion estimates. The updated schedule indicates managed lanes will open in 2022.
“The Department’s goal was to provide a solution that would offer the biggest benefit to the greatest number of drivers. Focusing on getting the general use lanes open within the original project timeline does just that,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Kevin J. Thibault, P.E. “FDOT remains committed to ensuring the project is completed safely and will continue to monitor the concessionaire to ensure accountability until the project is complete,” Secretary Thibault added.
This strategy enhances safety for both workers and motorists. Drivers receive a more reassuring and reliable driving experience sooner with fewer temporary configurations and lane shifts, promoting smoother daily traffic flow.Construction of managed lanes within the median of the interstate after general use lanes are complete minimizes daily disruptions and provides space for crews to work away from live traffic. This also allows the project team to better utilize resources.
FDOT and the I-4 Ultimate project team also resolved claims, streamlined construction processes, and added additional work to help deliver a quality and timely project. A settlement of claims made by the concessionaire for unforeseen impacts and financial compensation of approximately $125 million has been agreed upon by the project parties.
The latest update reiterates FDOT’s highest priority – safety of the traveling public. Additionally, the update reflects FDOT’s commitment to completing this major corridor that is the heart of transportation in Central Florida.
Motorists should always drive alert and avoid distractions while driving. Sign up for construction updates and alerts at I4Ultimate.com.
