POLK COUNTY, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis held a press conference Wednesday morning at Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland.
DeSantis signed House Bill 1301 to relieve congestion on streets and highways by accelerating road projects in the Polk County area.
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DeSantis declared the initiation of construction for an Interstate 4 widening endeavor this year.
He also disclosed plans for reconstructing nearly 15 miles of I-4 spanning from Champions Gate to the Osceola Parkway.
The endeavor will expand to encompass three general-use lanes, auxiliary lanes and two express lanes each for eastbound and westbound traffic. Additionally, existing interchanges in the vicinity are also slated for reconstruction.
“It’s going to make a huge difference to have an expansion of lanes and widen the shoulder for the emergency evacuation and safety situations for drivers,” DeSantis said.
DeSantis was joined by Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue, who praised the governor for “working relentlessly” to eliminate traffic in the Polk County area.
“Because of the governor’s leadership and the Florida Legislature, we are investing $2.5 billion into the I-4 corridor,” Perdue said.
DeSantis also discussed his toll relief program where Florida drivers who pass through 35 tolls or more on any road are eligible for a half refund on their monthly toll fees until March 31, 2025.
Originally slated for commencement in 20 years, DeSantis announced the project will now kick off in late 2024.
Watch the press conference here: