Gov. Rick Scott recently directed the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to make improvements to evacuation routes and to increase fuel capacity during emergencies.
“As Florida continues to recover from Hurricane Irma, the largest storm to impact our state in modern history, it is critically important that we continue to do all we can to make sure our state is fully prepared to face any potential disaster,” Scott said. “These improvements will ensure that Florida continues to be a national leader in emergency management and solely focused on keeping families safe.”
Short-term improvements are to be implemented by June. They include installing message signs and cameras on I-75 from the Georgia state line to Ocala, partnering with law enforcement and the Division of Emergency Management to identify critical gas stations along emergency routes, expanding the 511 website system, and increasing emergency shoulder use on key routes.
Long-term improvements include completing I-75 interchange construction next year, widening the turnpike to six lanes from the Lake and Sumter county lines to the CR 468 interchange in 2023 and from the interchange to I-75 in 2025, and collaborating with the fuel industry and Florida Ports to assess options for additional fuel storage and dispensing.