OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — A major widening project is underway on Florida’s Turnpike in Osceola County. Billions of dollars are being invested in Turnpike improvements across the state.
Channel 9 is the only station getting an exclusive tour of the project between Partin Settlement Road and Osceola Parkway, including the Fortune Road Bridge.
“We’re widening the Turnpike here [from Partin Settlement to Osceola Parkway] from 2 lanes to 4 lanes in each direction,” Yasir Mercado, the Communications Manager for Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, said.
This is just a portion of the state’s $20 billion investment in Turnpike improvements, with upgrades designed to improve traffic flow and ease congestion for drivers.
Mercado said one portion of the widening project is moving ahead of schedule.
All four steel beams for the new westbound Fortune Road Bridge are installed, completing this phase of construction one month ahead of time.
“It’s going to provide commuters to be able to cross over the Turnpike, get where they need to get to quicker, the bridge will last longer, and have a longer life span,” Mercado said.
Mercado said the bridge will have improved drainage, lighting, and safety features, as well as bike lanes and sidewalks.
It’s expected to allow for westbound travel by the beginning of next year.
She said it’s a small piece of the Turnpike puzzle to improve travel by 2031.
“It’s going to double capacity,” Mercado said. “There’s not going to be as much traffic on the roadways. You can get through smoothly; we’re increasing travel reliability and travel flow. We won’t be sitting on the Turnpike at peak hours.”
Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise is always looking for feedback from drivers. You can view projects, lane closures, and share concerns here: Florida’s Turnpike – Florida’s Turnpike
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