Traffic Pattern Changes Next Week Affecting S.R. 46, Wayside Drive, Capri Cove, and South Orange Avenue

As Part of Building the Wekiva Parkway

Sanford, Fla. Multiple traffic pattern changes are scheduled soon that will change access for residents and motorists traveling in the area of State Road (S.R.) 46, Wayside Drive, and South Orange Avenue. The road closures and new traffic patterns are part of building Wekiva Parkway Section 7A along S.R. 46 from Longwood Markham Road to Orange Boulevard.

Some of the following changes will be temporary, while others will be permanent. All changes take effect on Monday, July 29:

         S.R. 46 Traffic Shift: Traffic on westbound S.R. 46 will merge into a single right (outside) lane east of Orange Boulevard, providing a single through lane, single right turn lane, and a single left turn lane at the existing signal. A temporary left turn lane will be installed on S.R. 46 for accessing South Center Road heading west on S.R. 46. These changes will allow construction of the new Wekiva Parkway westbound service road and other portions of the parkway on the north side of the corridor.

• Wayside Drive Closure: Wayside Drive will close from Orange Boulevard to South Orange Avenue and from S.R. 46 to Forest Avenue. This will allow the elevated parkway to be built in this area, including bridges over Orange Boulevard.
• Capri Cove and South Orange Avenue Access: Residents of Capri Cove and South Orange Avenue will use a temporary access road to Wayside Drive. Residents will then take Wayside Drive to South Center Road to get to S.R. 46. This will allow the new, permanent side street connection to Orange Boulevard to be built.

Electronic message boards are posted. Please be advised work is dependent on weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. Work on Section 7A began April 1, 2018 and is scheduled to finish in 2022.

Media inquiries should be directed to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Communications Office at FDOT-D5COMM@dot.state.fl.us or by phone at 386-943-5473. For more information visit the project website at www.wekivaparkway.com, and follow the project on Facebook and Twitter for updates.

FDOT urges all drivers to stay alert and use caution while driving through or near construction zones. When driving, walking, or bicycling, remember to pay attention and follow the rules. Safety doesn't happen by accident.

More Project Information: The Wekiva Parkway is completing the beltway around Central Florida, while helping to protect the natural resources surrounding the Wekiva River. The FDOT and the Central Florida Expressway Authority so far have completed 13 miles of the eventual 25-mile toll road. The parkway provides travel alternatives, enhances safety and relieves area roads of traffic congestion.

Environmentalists refer to the Wekiva Parkway as a good example of transportation planning through environmentally sensitive areas. Parkway development has included conserving more than 3,400 acres of land, building wildlife bridges, and largely elevating the expressway to separate vehicles and wildlife.