DELTONA, Fla. – Volusia County leaders are urging the Florida Department of Transportation to accelerate the timeline for its “Beyond the Ultimate I-4” project, which will bring major improvements to the stretch of I-4 between Volusia and Seminole counties.

The project would include widening roads and upgrading interchanges, similar to the enhancements already seen in the Orlando area.

Drivers who regularly travel between Sanford and Volusia County know the frustration of heavy traffic, especially when crossing the St. Johns River at multiple points throughout the day. Volusia officials said the congestion is only getting worse.

“That’s why we’re asking FDOT to start this portion of the project much sooner,” said Deltona Mayor Santiago Avila Jr. “It’s important. It connects us to where most people actually go to work, unfortunately.”

Many residents in western Volusia County commute daily to jobs in Seminole and Orange counties. Deltona leaders plan to vote on a resolution Monday night supporting efforts to expedite projects that would ease traffic on I-4.

[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]

“The number one intention is to say, ‘Hey, we support getting this passed and fast-tracked. We need to reduce traffic in the city of Deltona,’” Avila said.

Seminole County passed a similar resolution in April, and now Deltona hopes to join the push to put pressure on the state.

“Deltona and Volusia are still part of Central Florida, so let’s bring some of that attention up here and not only focus on Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties,” Avila added.

FDOT said expanding the St. Johns River bridge is a top priority. A department spokesperson told News 6 they also know there’s a need to add more lanes—including express lanes—and improve entrance and exit ramps throughout western Volusia County.

The last major study on this corridor was re-evaluated in 2016 and 2017, based on 2011 traffic data. Since then, traffic patterns have changed, making the study outdated.

[PRIOR VIDEO: Leaders ask Florida to expedite St. Johns River]

To address this, FDOT is now using a 2022 traffic study to develop new ideas. The department is in the process of hiring a design engineer to create conceptual plans for traffic solutions.

The projects will be completed in phases. FDOT said it will provide updated timelines and cost estimates once the design work is finished.