Posted: January 12, 2021
Last modified: June 2, 2021

As a result of his directive to accelerate work on the I-4 Ultimate project due to decreased volume in traffic as a result of COVID-19, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) announced the opening of five new Interstate 4 (I-4)/State Road (S.R.) 408 flyover ramps on May 19, 2020.

This project was completed more than three months ahead of schedule and enhances safety and mobility, while reducing travel times in the heart of Florida.

“I’m pleased to announce the opening of the I-4 corridor three months earlier than planned after we took advantage of the lower traffic volume by accelerating work on some of these busy roads,” said Governor DeSantis. “The completion of this project will make a big difference for Floridians who commute through this area. Secretary Thibault has shown his commitment and dedication in completing this project expeditiously, and I look forward to seeing more infrastructure projects like this finish ahead of schedule.”

“In early April, Governor DeSantis challenged the Department to find ways to accelerate I-4 construction while there was less traffic on the road, and I am pleased to announce that we have opened these critical components of the I-4 corridor to drivers, three months ahead of schedule,” said FDOT Secretary Kevin J. Thibault, P.E. “This is the biggest milestone of the project to date, which will undoubtedly transform the heart of our state’s transportation system. I am grateful for the Governor’s common-sense approach to moving Florida forward during this unprecedented time.”

“We appreciate the continued partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation and look forward to further improving mobility throughout the region,” Central Florida Expressway Authority Chairman Brenda Carey said.

On April 11, 2020, Governor DeSantis and Secretary Thibault announced plans to open the I-4/S.R. 408 interchange by Independence Day, which was ahead of schedule. Afterward, the Department was able to further accelerate work by more than six weeks, opening four new I-4/S.R. 408 ramps along with the eastbound S.R. 408 ramp to westbound I-4.

Additionally, the westbound S.R. 408 to westbound I-4 ramp opened during the summer and was the final flyover to open at the interchange.

During the acceleration period, the I-4 Ultimate team has been worked at more than 12 locations with extended lane and ramp closures and reduced construction time by one to two months.

To view all the new interchange movements, motorists should visit the S.R. 408 Interactive map. When traveling throughout the corridor, always maintain a safe speed in the work zone, follow posted detour signs, and allow extra time to navigate the downtown area.