Title:
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Approve and authorize the Chairman to execute an Interlocal Agreement between Central Florida Expressway Authority and Seminole County related to joint funding for the SR 417 Sanford Airport Connector Project. District5 - Herr (Kristian Swenson, Assistant County Manager)
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Division:
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County Manager Office
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Authorized By:
Kristian Swenson, Assistant County Manager
Contact/Phone Number:
Kristian Swenson/(407)665-7246
Background:
With the Orlando Sanford International Airport growing and traffic becoming increasingly congested in the surrounding area, the Board of County Commissioners requested that the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) conduct a study to evaluate the feasibility of an expressway connection between SR 417 and the Orlando Sanford International Airport. In response to this request, CFX conducted a Concept, Feasibility, and Mobility Study (“CF&M”) to evaluate the feasibility of a direct access route between SR 417 and the Orlando Sanford International Airport (the “Project”). This CF&M was completed in August of 2023 and this study found that such an expressway connection was feasible from an engineering and environmental standpoint. Building upon the conclusions and findings from the 2023 CF&M, CFX began a Project Development and Environment Study (“PD&E”), to further evaluate proposed alternative alignments. On October 9, 2025, CFX’s Governing Board unanimously approved a preferred alternative (as defined in the PD&E) for the Project and, due to financial viability shortfalls, directed CFX staff to identify funding partners to increase the Project’s financial viability prior to commencing the Project.
The County finds it in the best interests of the County, its residents, and the public’s safety and welfare to financially contribute toward the Project’s completion, thereby ensuring its financial viability and advancing the County’s transportation objectives by promoting regional connectivity and alleviating congestion on its local roads. This project is a named project in the 4th Generation Sales Tax List with $25 million earmarked for this purpose. The remaining $25 million of needed funding for this project is the County’s responsibility per the agreement; however, staff will continue to pursue other funding partners and/or grants for this portion.
Requested Action:
Staff requests the Board approve and authorize the Chairman to execute an Interlocal Agreement between Central Florida Expressway Authority and Seminole County related to joint funding for the SR 417 Sanford Airport Connector Project.