Project Abstract

When the OOCEA recognized the need for improvements to the SR 408 corridor, the City of Orlando became a partner in the review of proposed design features. The neighborhoods adjacent to the corridor had gentrified and opportunities of revitalization could be realized. Pedestrian corridors that crossed under the SR 408 were not desirable and recreational opportunities were not ideal adjacent to the corridor.

Streetscape along South Street near McJordan Avenue is an example of the aesthetic improvements - Source: PBS&J

-- Excerpt from State Road 408 Widening Submission Form (450KB PDF) --

Overview

Exploding growth and increased tourism have taken their toll on State Road (SR) 408, the 16-mile limited-access toll road that allows travelers to bypass downtown surface streets in Orlando. A design approach that incorporated context-sensitive design principles to not only relieve congestion and improve safety, but highlight the best aesthetic features of the community, resulted in a much better expressway for the traveling public and a better quality of life for surrounding neighborhoods.

CSS Qualities: Process

Regular meetings with local elected officials and staff using exhibits, graphics and a "virtual driving tour" video to show the impact of the project both on the roadway and surrounding community. These techniques clearly demonstrated the "Before" reality and the "After" benefits of the project and encouraged input by local governments.

Public involvement/outreach included neighborhood association meetings, door to door visits in affected neighborhoods, newsletters to property owners within a half mile of the project, multiple news stories, e-mail alerts and weekly updates to interested parties, a 24-hour hotline, and on-line updates on the OOCEA’s website.

CSS Qualities: Outcomes

This SR 408 project was designed to be functional while benefiting the community. Changing the expressway surface from concrete to asphalt will improve the attractiveness and ride, and combined with the sound walls, will result in less noise—a benefit that will add to the quality of life and enjoyment of the surrounding neighborhoods. The faux cable-stayed bridge and a pedestrian walkway designed for Lake Underhill will become a visual "Gateway to Orlando." This new pedestrian bridge, unique to the City of Orlando and Central Florida, will link the community by creating a continuous pathway around Lake Underhill. In addition, it will provide more opportunities for recreational use of the lake.

   State Road 408 Widening Submission Form

   SR 408 FICE Project Description

   SR 408 Relieving Congestion Article