The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will open a new diverging diamond interchange (DDI) at Interstate 4 (I-4) and County Road (C.R.) 532 in Osceola County as soon as Sunday, July 10. This innovative project, which is part of FDOT’s I-4 Beyond the Ultimate program, is designed to improve safety and mobility in the ChampionsGate area.
When the DDI opens, motorists approaching the interchange on C.R. 532 will switch to the left side of the road at a traffic signal. After passing under the interstate, they will return to the right side at another traffic signal.
A DDI improves safety and mobility in several ways. First, it eliminates the need for left turns across oncoming traffic. Compared to a conventional interchange, a DDI has fewer conflict points, or places where vehicles cross paths, reducing the potential for collisions. Additionally, it reduces the number of traffic signal phases, allowing more cars to travel through the interchange.
Construction at I-4 and C.R. 532 is ongoing. In addition to the new traffic pattern, the work includes expanding the eastbound and westbound I-4 entrance and exit ramps and reconfiguring the intersection of ChampionsGate Boulevard and Goodman Road. The project will also add bike lanes and sidewalks along C.R. 532 to improve safety and connectivity for bicyclists and pedestrians. Completion of the entire project is anticipated by early 2023.
Motorists should expect an overnight closure of C.R. 532 for construction and lane striping beginning as soon as Saturday, July 9. For detour information, please visit i4Beyond.com/detours.
Schedules are subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. All motorists are urged to avoid distractions, follow posted signage, and drive safely.
To keep up with construction activity for the duration of the project, please visit cflroads.com or follow the project on Twitter. More information is available at i4Beyond.com.
Media inquiries should be directed to the FDOT District Five Communications Office at [email protected] or by phone at 386-943-5593.
