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. The construction of SR 516 will be divided into 3 segments, with the last projects to be completed in early 2023.
Segment 1: SR 516 from US 27 to Cook Road
The project will include a new interchange and realignment on US 27 along with the four-lane expressway. The project for this segment is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.
Segment 2: SR 516 from Cook Road to the border of Lake and Orange counties
This project will continue the four-lane expressway to the county line, with an interchange at CR 455. The future extension of County Road 455 is a separate Lake County project. The project for this segment is scheduled for completion in early 2023.
Segment 3: SR 516 from the border of the counties to SR 429
Segment 3 includes the continuation of the expressway with an interchange ramp with Valencia Parkway and interchange at the junction with SR 429. Toll gantries will be built 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 with the construction of the new expressway:
- Improve connectivity options between Lake and Orange counties;
- Meeting the transport demand forecast for the planned growth;
- Support economic viability and job creation for the Wellness Way Area Plan;
- Increase intermodal options with Horizon West Town Center;
- Provide evacuation and access to emergency services for emergency events such as hurricanes.