Changes are coming to the eastbound Interstate 4 (I-4) rest area 2 miles north of State Road (S.R.) 434 in Longwood.

On Tuesday, February 18, parking for cars, SUVs, and other passenger vehicles will permanently close at the rest area to accommodate a new stormwater pond. Extra stormwater capacity is required to accommodate a new auxiliary lane from the end of the I-4 Ultimate project to Lake Mary Boulevard.

The new pond will be located where there is an existing parking area for cars, SUVs and other passenger vehicles. This also includes the removal of the picnic pavilions. Restroom facilities, vending machines and the truck-only parking area will be unchanged and remain available to truck drivers only. (Truck here defined per Florida Statute 320.01(10,11): “Heavy truck” or “Truck Tractor.”)

While traveling through this corridor, the public has a variety of options for taking a break from the road, including interchanges at S.R. 436 (Exit 92), S.R. 434 (Exit 94), Lake Mary Boulevard (Exit 98), and S.R. 46 (Exit 101C). Two park and ride lots are also available at Exit 108 to 295 Debary Avenue, and Exit 111B to 1299 Saxon Boulevard; however, there are no restroom facilities at these locations.

The auxiliary lane construction is part of the I-4 Beyond the Ultimate improvement projects along I-4 in Seminole County. Other improvements include the resurfacing of eastbound I-4 travel lanes from the end of the I-4 Ultimate project to County Road 46A, and from S.R. 46 to east of U.S. 17-92, and reconstructing the E.E. Williamson Road bridge over I-4.

View or download a handout on the I-4 rest area modification at: I4Beyond.com/truck.