If you’re a resident of Orlando, you’ve heard about the ongoing ‘I-4 Ultimate’ Project.
This staple Central Florida road gets you just about anywhere you’d like to go within our community - we're all looking forward to smoother travels at the end of the project!
But the new road could mean much more than just quicker access to Orlando City games and trips to the mall for Orlando’s residents.
The updated road and quicker drive times could open up a number of community options for residents. If travel options could allow locals to seamlessly make it to-and-from the ‘daily grind,’ commuters may have a wider variety of popular Real Estate communities to choose from.
We’re breaking down what’s really happening on I-4, and which communities may become more easily accessible when it’s all said and done, widening the horizons for those looking at homes for sale in Orlando!
Here’s a snapshot of what you need to know about the update:
They've estimated the project will be completed in the year 2021. The project will be reconstructing 15 major interchanges, widening 13 existing bridges, and adding 53 new bridges on 21 miles of I-4 from Kirkman Road to State 434.
There will be two 'Express Toll Lanes' added in each direction of the highway. These lanes will be dynamically priced, changing based on the amount of traffic. However, once you enter the Express Lane at one of the access points, your toll rate will be locked in. Exact rates haven't been established yet, but speculation says they could reach $1 per mile during the heaviest traffic. The general lanes will continue to be free.
The project is also expected to address the interstate's curves and hills - straightening the well-known Fairbanks Curve, for example. Orlando's downtown stretch is seen as the 'most critical' section of the highway project, including the always congested 408 interchange.
So, which greater Orlando communities will become more attractive to potential commuters once the I-4 project is complete? Let's take a look at four areas along I-4 that are already quite popular, but will become even more desirable once construction is complete:
Where: Head North on I-4 from Downtown Orlando for about 10 miles and you’ll run right into the community of Altamonte Springs.
Why it’s Popular: Year-round events bring the community together in this popular city. Residents of neighboring communities will travel to join you in these popular festivals, concerts, and expos - but you’ll enjoy them right at home. Altamonte Springs is also known for its recreation, shopping, and true Florida nature.
Home Options: Altamonte Springs offers a variety of homes options, but is known for its classic Florida-style homes.
Where: Keep heading north of I-4 from Altamonte Springs to arrive at the noteworthy city of Lake Mary.
Why it’s Popular: Known as the ‘City of Lakes,’ Lake Mary is home to a number of upscale communities and hosts a noble atmosphere. It’s surrounded by untouched nature boasting unique recreation and is a relaxing place to call home.
Home Options: Lake Mary features sought-after communities such as Heathrow and famous neighborhoods along nearby Markham Woods Road (watch video). From luxury homes in famous communities to sought-after pool homes and classic single-family homes, Lake Mary has it all.
Where: Take I-4 south of Downtown Orlando to find the prestigious community of Doctor Phillips.
Why it’s Popular: Doctor Phillips puts you close to the action! It is home to Sandlake Road’s ‘Restaurant Row’ and the Orlando Eye. It's also right nearby International Drive, the Mall at Millenia and Universal Studios! Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment for the ultimate Orlando lifestyle!
Home Options: Doctor Phillips offers lakefront lifestyle homes, luxury estates, homes in long-established communities, and beautiful new construction.
Where: Keep heading south past Doctor Phillips to the town of Celebration, Florida!
Why it’s Popular: Enjoy the magic of Disney every day when you live in this community developed by the Walt Disney Company! Celebration offers walkable shopping, dining, and events in their Downtown, and neighbors the Disney theme parks and Disney Springs for endless entertainment. You have to see this town to believe it!
Home Options: Beautifully manicured lawns lead to picture-perfect homes in this one-of-a-kind community. Choose from condos, townhomes, single-family, and estate homes!
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