The Central Florida Express Authority (CFX) has approved a new $3.2 billion budget for a five-year work plan. The new connection between Lake and Orange counties, now called the “SR 516 Lake-Orange Expressway,” is included in the new budget. Construction of SR 516 will be divided into three segments, with the final projects scheduled for completion in early 2023.
Segment 1: SR 516 from US 27 to Cook Road
The project will include a new interchange and realignment of US 27 along with the four-lane expressway. The design for this segment is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.
Segment 2: SR 516 from Cook Road to the Lake-Orange county line
This project will extend the four-lane expressway to the county line, with an interchange at CR 455. The future extension of County Road 455 is a separate project being undertaken by Lake County. The project for this segment is scheduled to be completed in early 2023.
Segment 3: SR 516 from the county line to SR 429
Segment 3 includes the continuation of the expressway with an interchange ramp connecting to Valencia Parkway and an interchange at the junction with SR 429. Toll plazas will be constructed on all ramps in this segment. The construction of Valencia Parkway between SR 516 and Schofield Road is included in this segment.
The existing interchange at SR 429 and Schofield Road will remain. The project for this segment is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.
Project Objectives
Below are the main objectives to be achieved through the construction of the new expressway:
- Improve connectivity options between Lake and Orange counties;
- Meet the projected transportation demand resulting from the planned growth;
- Support the economic viability and job creation associated with the Wellness Way Area Plan;
- Expand intermodal options with the Horizon West Town Center;
- Provide evacuation and access to emergency services for emergency situations, such as hurricanes.