Driving CFX: April 2019

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APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 54

At CFX's April Board meeting, Director of Engineering Glenn Pressimone updated the Board on a study evaluating opportunities to use solar energy to power parts of the CFX system, such as electronic messaging signs and street lights.

As part of the plan, CFX is considering piloting the use of photovoltaic cells in its right-of-way; for example, adding floating solar arrays to retention ponds or establishing in-road solar energy systems.

One of CFX's priorities is to leverage technologies for an efficient, reliable and safe system. These “green technology” pilots will contribute to a more resilient, cost-effective road network here in Central Florida.

CFX Executive Director Laura Kelley welcomed nearly 1,000 tolling professionals from around the world at the International Bridge, Tunnel & Turnpike Association (IBTTA) Annual Technology Summit held from March 31-April 2 in Orlando.

Kelley, a co-host for the summit, spoke about some of the technological advances enjoyed by drivers on CFX’s 118-mile system. This includes E-PASS Xtra, the first toll transponder in Florida that allows seamless expressway access in 18 states, and CFX’s award-winning Wrong Way Driving Detection and Prevention System. This innovative safety technology warns drivers when a vehicle going toward oncoming traffic enters an expressway.

CFX joined the Federal Highway Administration and other transportation organizations to promote National Work Zone Awareness Week last week, April 8-13. This year’s theme, “Drive Like You Work Here,” served as an important reminder that the roadway is an "office" for thousands of our community members, including construction and engineering professionals as well as emergency and law enforcement personnel. CFX urges drivers to always use extreme caution when driving through work zones to decrease crashes, fatalities, and injuries.

To learn more, watch WFTV reporter Racquel Asa’s in-depth look at work zone safety.

Above: Members of the CFX team wore orange to celebrate National Go Orange Day on Wednesday, April 10.

PROJECT UPDATES

The Central Florida Expressway Authority began a new project in March to improve portions of SR 429. Over the next six months, crews will be paving ramps at Kelly Park Road, Plant Street and CR 437/Ocoee-Apopka Road.

Other improvements include adding a turn lane at Kelly Park Road and widening the southbound SR 429 entrance ramp from Kelly Park Road. The entire project is scheduled for completion in August.

For more detailed information on this project, click here.

The eastbound Interstate 4 (I-4) exit to South Street (Exit 82B) is temporarily combining with the exit ramp to SR 408.

The temporary configuration moves Exit 82B approximately one-quarter mile and combines it with Exit 82A.

The exit ramp consists of two lanes, with the right lane continuing to South Street and the left lane heading toward SR 408.

To stay up to date on the schedule for this ramp change, visit: www.i4ultimate.com/exit82 .

PARKWAY EXTENSION STUDY INVITES PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

More than 150 people attended the Poinciana Parkway Extension Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study public meeting on March 14. This study is looking at extending the Poinciana Parkway from its northern terminus to County Road 532.

CFX presented a video on the study in addition to exhibits showing three alignment alternatives and potential impacts to the physical, natural, social and cultural environment. Attendees were able to see the proximity of the alignments to their properties with interactive maps on smart screens. CFX received comments regarding the alignment alternatives.

Couldn't attend the public meeting? View the study documents and public meetings schedule on the project study page here . You can also submit a public comment and sign up for email updates.

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23% savings over cash-paying customers
Customer Loyalty Volume Discounts - you could receive up to an additional 20% discount each month for frequent travel
No monthly account fees
E-PASS works on all toll roads in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina and works for parking at Orlando International Airport

Which E-PASS is right for you? Learn about all the E-PASS products and get E-PASS to start saving today.

IN THE COMMUNITY

SPRINGTIME FUN AND E-PASS AT SPRING FIESTA

Thank you to all who came out to Spring Fiesta at Lake Eola and visited the E-PASS booth the weekend of April 6 and 7. Orlando Mayor and CFX Board Member Buddy Dyer stopped by to say hello!

We enjoyed getting to know you and answering your questions about E-PASS and E-PASS Xtra. If we missed you and you have a question, please e-mail info@cfxway.com .

CFX SUPPORTS JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT

Thousands of eighth graders took part in this year’s Junior Achievement (JA) Inspire event at the Osceola Heritage Park Events Center on April 11.

CFX was among several companies taking part to help answer students’ questions about their future career paths. Nearly 1,700 students spoke with our team about engineering, construction and many other career opportunities.