SANFORD, Fla. – After nearly two decades of discussions, officials are moving closer to a decision on a proposed connector road between State Road 417 and Orlando Sanford International Airport.
The Central Florida Expressway Authority, or CFX, is holding a public meeting Wednesday evening to gather community input on the two remaining route options.
The goal of the project is to alleviate congestion on local roads, particularly East Lake Mary Boulevard, by providing a direct link between SR-417 and the airport.
Over the years, multiple alignments were studied but now, only two remain —Alignment 2 and Alignment 2A. Both routes would begin near the Lake Jesup toll plaza and extend northeast toward the airport.
While the project could improve traffic flow, it may also affect nearby neighborhoods and environmental areas.
“If I lived in the neighborhood, I probably wouldn’t want it, but if I commute, like I do, I’m all for it,” commuter Mike Yurkovic said.
However, some residents have opposed the project in the past due to concerns about wildlife and habitat loss.
“Our remaining wetlands north of Lake Jesup are already fragmented. Wildlife and protected species have fewer places to go,” said Chelsea Lenoble, a resident of the Kensington Reserve neighborhood.
The estimated cost of the project is $160 million and even if it gets approved, construction could still be years away.
CFX officials say they are considering public feedback before making a final decision.
The meeting will be held at Galileo School from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Residents can attend in person or participate virtually via the project’s website.
Officials encourage the public to review the proposed routes and voice their opinions before the project moves forward.
