Local

Osceola County officials approve millions in funding for road projects to ease congestion

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Population growth in Osceola County is forcing officials there to act.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

County commissioners are working with the Florida Department of Transportation on road projects meant to alleviate the traffic congestion caused by recent, sudden growth.

READ: From carmakers to refiners, industries brace for rail strike

The county has earmarked approximately $770 million to spend on alleviating congestion along Neptune, Simpson, and Partin Settlement Roads.

The work is expected to improve commute times for those traveling through Kissimmee to the St. Cloud area, but it’s still several years away from happening.

READ: Why were some felons arrested for voting in 2020 and others not?

“We’re working as feverishly as we can,” Osceola County’s Executive Director of Transportation and Transit Tawny Olore said. “We actually compressed our schedule from seven to five years to get these roads fixed. We’re going as expeditiously as we can.”

Right around the same time, the Turnpike through Osceola County will be getting a facelift of its own.

READ: Florida’s failing insurance market contributing to rent crisis

FDOT plans to increase travel lanes from four to eight from Neptune Road to Osceola Parkway. The idea is to alleviate congestion while also making the roads safer.

For a closer look at the projects and their impact on daily commutes, click here.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.