The $253 million design-build project, commissioned by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), was part of an overall 25-mile tolled Wekiva Parkway improvements project, which has been in planning and construction for over 30 years. This key piece of the parkway provides travel alternatives and relieves traffic congestion resulting from population growth in Orange, Lake, and Seminole counties.
The project included installing 2.63 miles of limited access toll road from Orange Boulevard to east of Rinehart Road and the Wekiva Parkway interchange that connects I-4 with SR 429, and SR 429 with SR 417. The project’s design also accommodates the future Beyond the Ultimate project, which will add four express lanes down the median of I-4.
The design was favored by the owner for its benefits including improved safety for motorists and in work zones, and improved operations. Fewer traffic control phases, utility avoidance, an aesthetically pleasing design, and preservation of recently constructed infrastructure were also desirable aspects of the project. The Wekiva Parkway was also recognized for its environmentally friendly design that helped foster the 3,400 acres of conservation land it encroached upon during construction, including numerous wildlife bridges, and largely elevated roadways to reduce accidents between vehicles and sensitive wildlife.
The Lane Construction Corporation specializes in large, complex civil infrastructure. For over 130 years, it has contributed to the development of the country’s transportation systems including the Interstate Highway System and a vast network of roads, bridges, airports, metros, and railways.
