The Moving Florida Forward program is a comprehensive initiative that promises to transform Florida’s road network and redefine the future of transportation in the state. With a long-term vision, this ambitious project from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) seeks to improve existing infrastructure. It will therefore establish new roads, bridges and public transport systems crucial for economic development and regional connectivity.
Discover the infrastructure projects underway, as well as their impact on the economy and the real estate market.
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Ongoing Moving Florida Forward Program Projects
Florida is experiencing unparalleled population growth. It is projected to grow by 1000 people every day over the next 30 years. That’s why the state has dedicated $4 billion to the Moving Florida Forward initiative to advance construction on these projects (FDOT, n.d.; FDOT, 2023). We present them to you below.
1. New roads and extensions
The program includes the construction of new roads and the expansion of existing ones. Among the outstanding projects are the expansions of four highways:
- I-4, which is one of the busiest roads in the state. The project includes the reconstruction of three general-purpose lanes, auxiliary lanes and two express lanes. Construction will begin in the fall of 2026.
- La interestatal I-75. This project includes the reconstruction of the I-75 intersection at Fruitville Road. It will also widen the road by approximately 3 km. Construction will begin in the fall of 2024.
- La interestatal I-275. The project will add several express toll lanes in each direction. Construction will begin in the summer of 2025.
- The SR 70. The project will increase the two lanes to a four-lane divided lane. It will also include improvements to intersections, as well as bicycle and pedestrian lanes. Construction will begin in the fall of 2024.
2. Bridges and Key Structures
The project also includes the modernization and construction of new bridges to improve the safety and durability of the infrastructure. Constructions such as:
- Replacing the existing bridges over Fruitville Road, as well as the southbound bridge over Palmer Boulevard. Construction will begin in the fall of 2024.
- The construction of the new Poinciana connector. This will complete the missing Poinciana Parkway interchange between Champions Gate Boulevard and the I-4/Daniel Webster Western Beltway interchange. Construction will begin in the fall of 2026.
3. Public transport systems
An important part of the Moving Florida Forward initiative is focused on improving and expanding public transportation systems. This includes investing in new train lines, buses, and other means of collective transportation so that anyone can make a road trip through Florida. These are improvements that will provide viable alternatives to the use of private vehicles. Thus, they will help to decongest the main roads and reduce the environmental impact.
Impact of Moving Florida Forward on the development of the region
Improvements in transport infrastructure will have a significant impact on the economic development and connectivity of the region, as (15 minutes, 2023; FDOT, 2023):
- They will facilitate the efficient movement of people and goods.
- They will create a more attractive environment for both companies and investors.
- They will reduce travel times and offer greater road safety.
With this, the program will improve the quality of life for residents, boost property values, and encourage people to invest in Miami. After all, efficient transport networks offer greater conveniences and business opportunities.
In short, Moving Florida Forward is an infrastructure improvement program and a strategic vision for Florida’s future. New roads, bridges, and public transportation systems will boost economic development and connectivity, resulting in a positive impact on property values. Miami and Orlando will consolidate themselves as world-class logistics and commercial centers, and open up a world of opportunities for visionary real estate investors.
References
15 minutes. (2023, September 25). FDOT announces that it seeks to accelerate infrastructure projects on Florida’s roads. https://www.15minutos.com/florida/el-fdot-anuncia-que-busca-acelerar-proyectos-de-infraestructura-en-la-vialidad-de-florida/
FDOT. (n.d.). Moving Florida Forward. https://www.fdot.gov/movingfloridaforward/landing
FDOT. (2023, September 27). FDOT Releases Construction Timelines for Moving Florida Forward Projects. https://www.fdot.gov/info/co/news/2023/09272023-2