DeSantis announces I-75 expansion in Ocala, $2.3B impact

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced the groundbreaking of a significant expansion project for Interstate 75 (I-75) in Ocala, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and enhancing infrastructure to support the state's growing population. The project will add one lane in each direction between State Road 44 and State Road 326, incorporating new interchanges, and is estimated to be completed in three to four years. Funded through the Moving Florida Forward program, the expansion is expected to reduce travel delays by up to 96% and has a projected regional economic impact of $2.3 billion. DeSantis emphasized the initiative's importance for economic development and maintaining efficient roadways amid rapid population growth. The project is part of a larger effort that includes 20 major roadway projects expedited under the same program, which allocated $4 billion from the General Fund's surplus to improve infrastructure statewide. Local officials have praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to enhance quality of life and support economic growth in the region.