Work is intensifying on a major project aimed at easing traffic congestion along I-4 between Tampa and Orlando.

This effort is part of the “Moving Florida Forward” initiative, unveiled by Gov. Ron DeSantis last June, which focuses on enhancing safety and reducing congestion on key roadways across the state.

A significant component of this plan, known as “Moving I-4 Forward,” consists of five major projects designed to improve traffic flow in Central Florida.

The first phase, called the “Accelerated Start” by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), is now underway. It involves constructing two new lanes—one in each direction—stretching from east of U.S. 27 in Polk County to east of World Drive in Osceola County. FDOT aims to complete these lanes by the end of the year.

Currently, this 7.5-mile stretch of I-4 carries an average of 140,000 vehicles daily. Once the new lanes open, work will commence on expanding entrance and exit ramps at the frequently congested ChampionsGate interchange.

And this is just the beginning.

In addition to these initial improvements, FDOT is launching five more projects along I-4 from Polk County to Orange County. Plans include expanding sections of the highway from six to 12 lanes, along with new interchange ramps and connections.

This extensive work is set to unfold over the next several years.

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(Image credit: FDOT)