Local

FDOT reworks SR-408 ramp closure schedule to ease traffic congestion

ORLANDO, Fla. — A westbound State Road 408 ramp that thousands of drivers rely on in East Orange County is back open Wednesday, but that wasn’t the case earlier in the day.

Early Wednesday morning, drivers were backed up near East Colonial Drive due to the ramp closure. The delays were so bad that the ramp, which was supposed to be closed through Friday, was reopened a few hours later.

The closure was part of a road-widening project, but the Florida Department of Transportation got an earful from drivers who were stuck in traffic for long periods of time.

"It's been pretty awful," said driver Cameron Tatanish.

"Not good for me.  It's very frustrating," said delivery driver David Gagnon. "I be getting calls back saying why am I not getting this on time, but I'm trying my hardest."

FDOT officials said drivers were given notice of the closure, but they've chosen to re-work the project's schedule to help ease traffic congestion. Closures will run from 9:30 p.m. through 5:30 a.m.