TRANSPORTATION

Download the Purpose and Need (PDF, 153.2KB)

Purpose: The purpose of the proposed design change is to modify the existing system-to-system connection between I-595 and I-95, providing direct connections between the I-95 Express Lanes and the I-595 General Use and Reversible Express Lanes. The proposed design modifications will facilitate implementation of the planned South Florida regional express lanes network, providing improved travel reliability and long term mobility options for South Florida commuters.
Need: The need for the proposed improvements is consistent with the needs expressed in the I-
595 PD&E study as well as the recently approved I-95 Express PD&E Study. The need for the
project relates to:
-- System Linkage: I-595 Reversible Express and I-95 Express are part of FDOT’s vision for building an interconnected regional system of express lanes in Southeast Florida. This planned regional express lanes network is depicted in Figure 1-1. The proposed project will
provide connectivity between these two express lanes systems – I-595 Reversible Express and I-95 Express. This systems connectivity will maximize long-term capacity needs, mobility needs and travel reliability along both the I-595 and I-95 corridors.
-- Emergency Evacuation: As part of the emergency evacuation route network designated by the Florida Division of Emergency Management, I-595 is critical in facilitating the movement of traffic during emergency evacuation periods. This facility connects other major arterials and highways designated on the state evacuation route network within the project limits, such as I-95 and the Florida's Turnpike. The proposed project will allow for enhanced emergency
access and incident response times.
-- Multi-Modal Transportation System: The proposed improvements are consistent with state and local government policy of promoting multi-modal transportation systems. Connectivity between the I-595 and I-95 express lanes systems will facilitate expansion of current/planned express bus and bus rapid transit systems throughout the region. It will also provide increased travel options for users of both the I-595 and I-95 corridors. These increased travel choices will ultimately help in managing and accommodating the long term travel demand needs in the county.

Download the Recommended Alternative (PDF, 17.7MB)