Construction on Key Seminole County Interchanges Is Underway

Construction crews are moving forward on Seminole County projects with work beginning on the U.S. 17-92 and County Road (C.R.) 46A interchanges along Interstate 4 (I-4) last month. These new construction projects are part of the I-4 Beyond the Ultimate program, which is improving Central Florida’s transportation infrastructure.

Construction on the U.S. 17-92 improvements began October 9. Crews are progressing in clearing, grubbing, and excavation work, with the end goal of realigning U.S. 17-92 at I-4. The eastbound I-4 exit ramp will be realigned to westbound U.S. 17-92 to allow for crosswalk improvements, which include a pedestrian-activated crosswalk signal. Additionally, eastbound U.S. 17-92 will have an auxiliary lane added between the westbound I-4 exit ramp and Monroe Road. Southbound U.S. 17-92/Monroe Road will have a right turn lane added to connect to the eastbound I-4 entrance ramp, and a westbound left turn lane will be added from Seminole Boulevard to drive south on U.S. 17-92/Monroe Road. The U.S. 17-92 plan will improve sight distance for motorists, upgrade crosswalks, and reduce the speed limit from 50 mph to 35 mph to enhance safety in the area.

The estimated timeline for completion of this project is late 2024.

Seminole County travelers will also see drastic changes to the intersection at C.R. 46A and Rinehart Road near I-4. The enhancements will increase capacity at the intersection by modifying select existing turn lanes and adding new turn lanes. The eastbound through/right turn lane on C.R. 46A will be converted to a through-only lane, and two turn-only lanes will be added — for a total of three — to southbound Rinehart Road. A third lane will also be added to southbound Rinehart Road between C.R. 46A and Timacuan Boulevard and existing left turn lanes will be extended.

Construction on this phase of the Seminole County improvements began October 29. Crews have started clearing and grubbing work on the east side of C.R. 46A. Completion of the C.R. 46A project is scheduled for 2025.

Over the past several years, Central Florida has attracted residents and visitors in unprecedented numbers, which has led to increased demand on state roadways. In particular, the number of motorists driving within the I-4 corridor has continued to grow.

Motorists are advised to remain alert and use caution when driving through work zones. Always follow the posted speed limit and avoid distractions to ensure the construction crews can safely complete their tasks.

To stay informed with current and future I-4 Beyond the Ultimate projects, visit the projects page.

International Road Federation Engineers Visit Daryl Carter Parkway Construction Site

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) hosted a construction site visit for a group of international engineers on November 6 at the Interstate 4 (I-4) and Daryl Carter Parkway interchange project in Orange County. The event gave the visiting engineers from the International Road Federation (IRF) a look into the progress of the construction of new ramps and a diverging diamond interchange (DDI) that are ongoing in that area.

FDOT’s visiting engineers hailed from Ghana, Rwanda, and Tanzania. Through this opportunity, the visitors gained first-hand knowledge from the engineers who worked on the ramps and the DDI project. The IRF visitors began the day at the construction site’s trailer office, where Project Engineer Curtis Brown met with the group and introduced them to the construction team. The visitors were able to view drone footage of the overall construction zone and get answers to their questions on the progress of the DDI project. The engineers were able to ask questions about the efficiency of the DDI in reducing traffic congestion and improving pedestrian safety.

The visitors were then taken up to the Daryl Carter Parkway overpass, where the westbound side is closed for work on the DDI. FDOT public information consultants were on site to give an overview of community outreach efforts and how to keep the public informed during key construction times. The construction team offered additional insight into the state of the project and how the DDI and new ramps will help ease congestion in a heavily traveled area. The group got an up-close view of how the three new ramps will impact travel on I-4, and the adjustments to the retention ponds within the project. FDOT is proud to partner with the IRF for opportunities to engage in knowledge sharing and insight with our professional colleagues from across the globe to promote the development of safer and smarter travel.

FDOT and FHP Urge Motorists to Drive Sober to Save Lives

The holidays are a special time to spend with friends and family. In Central Florida, we may not have to worry about snow on our roads, but we all must do our part to drive safely during the holiday season. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) reminds us to always be responsible when it comes to consuming alcohol. FDOT partners with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) to ensure that everyone stays safe on Florida’s roadways. FDOT wishes everyone a happy holiday season but drinking and driving simply do not mix.

FHP is stepping up enforcement efforts in November and December to ensure everyone arrives alive. Lt. Tara Crescenzi said that FHP will have increased driving under the influence (DUI) traffic enforcement efforts during the holidays. “We want you to have a safe holiday season, but the bottom line is simple — drive sober or get pulled over. Ensure everyone can celebrate with their loved ones by making responsible choices on the road,” said Crescenzi.

According to 2023 data from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 37 people in the United States die each day in motor vehicle crashes involving a drunk driver. These sobering facts break out to one death every 39 minutes, totaling over 13,000 lives lost per year. Tragically, recent statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) state that 42% of drivers killed in alcohol-related crashes are between the ages of 16 and 24.

Alcohol is not the only cause of DUI traffic fatalities, as both legal and illegal drugs account for nearly 16% of motor vehicle crashes. There are many prescriptions drugs that can negatively impact your ability to drive. Check the medication labels on all your prescriptions prior to driving. Remember, having just one drink while on medication could be the equivalent of having several drinks.

FDOT asks you to think ahead and be proactive. At the beginning of your holiday activity, make sure you already have a plan in place. Have your friends and family help you be accountable to use a designated driver, use a rideshare or taxi, or even make plans to stay at your location. Not only are you placing your own and others’ lives in danger by driving under the influence, but getting a DUI traffic violation can personally cost you over $5,000 as you work through the legal system.

Buzzed driving is drunk driving, as there are five major signs of impairment:

• A slower reaction time.
• Decreased hand-eye coordination.
• Difficulty perceiving time and distance.
• Weakened concentration.
• Limited short-term memory functions.

During the holiday season, Florida’s highways can be some of the busiest in the country. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reported more than 6,000 crashes during the 2022 Thanksgiving holiday weekend alone. Planning ahead, practicing defensive driving, and obeying traffic laws are ideal ways for you to arrive alive and make memories with your friends and family.

For more information, visit fdot.gov/agencyresources/impaireddriving-holidays.

Safe Driving at Every Age: Older Driver Safety Awareness Week 2023

Older Driver Safety Awareness Week 2023, held December 4 - 8, serves as a reminder of the unique challenges that aging drivers face on the road. This annual event is not just about raising awareness; it's about empowering aging road users with valuable tips and insights to help them navigate our roadways safely.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021 the number of people 65 and older killed in traffic crashes made up 17% of all traffic fatalities. Ensuring the safety of aging road users benefits our entire community.

Understanding the Challenges

One of the first steps in ensuring the safety of aging road users is understanding the unique challenges they face. Some of these challenges include:

• Age-related physical changes: As we age, our physical capabilities like reaction timing, vision, and hearing can change.
• Medication and health issues: Many older road users are on medication or have health conditions that can impair their ability to drive safely.
• Cognitive changes: Memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities can decline with age.

Tips for Safe Driving

During Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, adhering to these tips can help older road users and the community stay safe on the road:

• Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular medical check-ups to monitor your health. Ensuring your vision and hearing are in good condition before driving is crucial, as well as mitigating side effects from medications.
• Adaptive Vehicle Features: Consider vehicles with adaptive features such as larger mirrors, back-up cameras, or adaptive cruise control. These can make driving more comfortable and safer to navigate.
• Safe Following Distance: Maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. This gives you more reaction time if the driver stops suddenly.
• Avoid Distractions: Minimize distractions in the car, including putting your mobile phone on do not disturb.
• Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest traffic rules and regulations. You can sign up for closure alerts here: fdot.tips/alerts.
• Stay Active: Regular physical activity can help maintain your mobility and flexibility, making it easier to operate a vehicle.
• Driver Safety Courses: Consider enrolling in a driver safety course designed for older drivers. These courses often cover strategies for staying safe on the road.

By understanding the unique challenges aging drivers face, many can continue to enjoy driving independently while minimizing potential risks. Remember, safe driving knows no age, and is a responsibility we all share.