ORLANDO, Fla. — The intersection of Sand Lake Road and Interstate 4 has a history of being backed up, But that’s not going to be the case anymore. The Florida Department of Transportation has opened a new ramp system to help ease that traffic.

Bumper-to-bumper traffic was once the norm for drivers traveling through I-4 and Sand Lake Road.

“In the morning it’s very stressful. A lot of traffic, sometimes accidents,” said Adi Zamir.

Zamir works at her family’s restaurant, Krembo Café, on Turkey Lake Road. She says getting to work can be a headache, especially during peak hours.

“Me specifically coming from the airport, it’s more driving. It can get up to 40 to 45 minutes when it’s just 20 to 25 minutes,” said Zamir.

The Florida Department of Transportation stepped in to introduce a new loop ramp system designed to improve traffic flow and safety

“This interchange is the busiest interchange in Central Florida. There are about 115,000 vehicles that travel through this interchange every single day,” said Britney Jones with the Florida Department of Transportation.

Jones says the new ramp eliminates the left turn from westbound Sand Lake Road to southbound Turkey Lake Road, a move that previously caused major backups.

Instead, drivers on westbound Sand Lake Road can now use the loop ramp to head north or south on Turkey Lake Road. The system also allows drivers on westbound I-4 to exit directly to either Turkey Lake Road or Sand Lake Road at Exit 74A.

“This eliminates the risk of T-bone crashes and lessens the risk of overall crashes,” said Jones.

FDOT says from January 1, 2021 to May 1, 2026, there have been a little over 300 crashes at the interchange. With the new traffic pattern in place, the goal is to keep traffic moving and keep drivers safe.

Officials are urging drivers to take their time and watch their surroundings as everyone gets used to the changes. Navigation systems like Google Maps and Apple Maps have already been updated to guide drivers through the new routes. Drivers are also encouraged to allow extra time for their commute during the adjustment period.