Florida’s Interstate 4, notoriously dubbed the deadliest highway in Florida, is finally seeing long-overdue improvements. The six-mile stretch near Disney World—between U.S. 27 in Polk County and World Drive in Osceola County—is undergoing a major widening project. In a recent announcement, Governor Ron DeSantis shared that an additional lane in each direction will be open before the end of the month, months ahead of the previously promised timeline.
For years, I-4 has been a source of frustration, especially for those traveling between Tampa and Orlando. The highway is not only infamous for its congestion but has also gained national attention for its high rate of fatal crashes. According to various traffic studies, this corridor is consistently ranked among the most dangerous in the nation, earning it the grim title of the deadliest highway in Florida. This new expansion aims to change that by improving safety, reducing gridlock, and increasing regional mobility.
A Relief for Commuters and Tourists
Anyone who frequently drives through the I-4 corridor near Disney World knows the pain of long delays and stop-and-go traffic. This area serves as a key route for commuters, commercial trucks, and millions of tourists visiting Central Florida’s major attractions each year. The additional lanes are expected to significantly ease congestion by allowing better traffic flow, especially during peak travel seasons.
“This will really be a sigh of relief for a lot of people,” Governor DeSantis said at a press conference in Kissimmee. “This is just one of many things that are going to be done to improve connectivity and mobility in and around the dreaded I-4 corridor.”
Accelerated Timeline and Additional Projects
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) originally scheduled the completion of this expansion by the end of 2025. However, under the leadership of DeSantis and the Moving Florida Forward initiative, the project was expedited. This initiative is focused on fast-tracking essential infrastructure improvements across the state, with over 700 projects underway and an estimated $75 billion invested since 2019.
FDOT officials stated that the I-4 widening near Disney World includes two new express lanes, one additional general use lane in each direction, upgraded interchanges, and newly resurfaced pavement. These upgrades are designed not only to reduce congestion but also to improve overall highway safety.
“This project is about much more than easing a traffic jam,” said an FDOT spokesperson. “These improvements will enhance traffic flow, safety, and regional connectivity—creating a continuous express lane system from Seminole County to Polk County and boosting Florida’s economy.”
Economic Impact
The economic significance of this infrastructure investment cannot be overstated. According to estimates from FDOT, the I-4 improvements in this corridor alone are expected to yield an economic impact of more than $13 billion. By improving mobility and reducing travel times, the project is likely to benefit both businesses and residents alike.
Tourism is one of Florida’s leading industries, and smoother traffic near Walt Disney World Resort—the most visited theme park in the world—will improve visitor experiences and encourage return travel. Moreover, enhanced roadway safety and less time stuck in traffic could also mean fewer accidents, further helping to improve I-4’s dangerous reputation as the deadliest highway in Florida.
What’s Next: More Improvements on the Horizon
FDOT is not stopping with this six-mile segment. The department is also moving forward with full-build work at key interchanges, including County Road 532 (ChampionsGate Boulevard) and World Drive. Additionally, projects are being prepared along the 14-mile corridor from U.S. 27 to S.R. 536 (World Center Drive) in Orange County.
Another major project, the Poinciana Connector, will begin construction and finalize engineering this summer. This new roadway will link I-4 and S.R. 429 and is expected to start two years earlier than initially planned.
A Safer Road Ahead?
While the current improvements mark a step in the right direction, long-term success will depend on sustained efforts to maintain and expand Florida’s transportation infrastructure. The hope is that with continued investments, I-4 can shed its reputation as the deadliest highway in Florida and become a safer, more efficient corridor for all drivers.
In the meantime, motorists can expect a smoother ride through one of the busiest areas in the state. With additional lanes opening soon and more improvements on the horizon, the state is making good on its promise to prioritize infrastructure and public safety.
