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State Road 516, a new expressway that will connect Lake and Orange counties, will be a milestone in the road infrastructure of the Orlando region and throughout central Florida, in addition to standing out as one of the most innovative roads in the world. Its great differential will be dynamic charging technology, allowing electric vehicles to be recharged while traveling, becoming a model of sustainability and innovation in transport.
The Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) approved the project and began the construction of this toll highway, which will connect to the U.S. Highway 27 to State Road 429. With an estimated total investment of $534 million, State Road 516 will help relieve traffic in the region, boost the local economy, and set a new standard for sustainable highways.
A Connected and Smart Highway
The new expressway emerges to meet the growing demand for infrastructure in the region, which is among the fastest growing in Florida. Currently, there are few direct connections between Lake and Orange counties, making it difficult for residents and workers to travel. The project provides for a modern and efficient road, reducing congestion and facilitating access to expanding areas, such as the Horizon West Town Center.
In addition to technological innovation, State Road 516 will be built sustainably, preserving natural areas and creating an underpass to protect wildlife, in addition to including paths for runners, cyclists and pedestrians.
Wireless Charging for Electric Vehicles
The main highlight of State Road 516 is its ability to charge electric vehicles as they travel along the road. The dynamic charging system will work through coils built into the asphalt, which transfer energy to compatible vehicles in a similar way to wireless smartphone charging, but on a much larger scale.
Initially, the technology will only be available for a fleet of test electric vehicles, as part of a pilot program developed in partnership with ASPIRE and ENRX. However, the ultimate goal is for the highway to be equipped to carry all types of electric vehicles in the future, making electric mobility even more accessible and practical.
See the map below:
How to Access SR-516 from Orlando
SR-516 is being built south of Lake Louisa State Park, a state park located in Lake County. When completed, it will be easily accessible from Orlando. The best route will be by Interstate 4 (I-4) towards the west, taking the exit to State Road 429 (Western Beltway). From SR-429, it will be possible to access SR-516 at Horizon West. The total route to the beginning of the new highway will be just over 30 km.
Economic and Environmental Impact of SR-516
The construction of SR-516 will not only bring improvements in traffic, but will also boost the economic development of the region. According to Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks, the highway will help promote new employment centers and commercial growth, generating opportunities for businesses and residents.
From an environmental point of view, SR-516 will be one of the most sustainable highways ever built by CFX, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting cleaner and more efficient transport. In addition, the preservation of natural areas and the integration of paths for pedestrians and cyclists reinforce the commitment to responsible development.
State Road 516 Completion Forecast
Works on State Road 516 will begin in the spring of 2025, and the highway is expected to be fully completed by 2027. When completed, this route will represent a major advance in Florida’s transportation infrastructure, not only connecting strategic areas, but also serving as a model for future sustainable highways around the world.
With a combination of innovative technology, connectivity and sustainability, State Road 516 promises to transform the way people move and fuel their vehicles, making Florida a benchmark in electric mobility and smart infrastructure.
Innovative Infrastructure Values the Region and Attracts New Investments
The construction of State Road 516 will not only improve connectivity between Lake and Orange counties, facilitating travel and better integrating cities on the outskirts of Orlando, but will also be a major economic driver, valuing the cities around them and attracting new investments.
The highway stands out as a landmark of innovation and sustainability, positioning Florida as a world reference in smart infrastructure and green mobility. With this pioneering dynamic charging initiative for electric vehicles, Florida reinforces its attractiveness for investors, consolidating itself as a modern and dynamic state, which adopts advanced technological solutions for transportation and urban development. Projects like this will dictate the direction of new constructions in Orlando and throughout the state, making the region even more desired for those who seek quality of life, innovation and opportunities for real estate and economic growth.
About AMG International Realty
AMG International Realty is a global real estate company specialized in Florida and aimed at the foreign public. We operate throughout South Florida and Central Region, on the outskirts of the main centers: Miami and Orlando.
If you want to know more about real estate in Florida, contact me right now and talk to me on WhatsApp: +305-684-0455 (Heloisa Arazi).
