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I-4 Ultimate construction resumes after worker's death

Published  March 12, 2018 4:39pm EDT
News
FOX 35 Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. (FOX 35 WOFL) -  

UPDATE: Work on the I-4 Ultimate construction project resume today, March 12th. 

SGL Constructors says that the work will be limited and will included the area in which the incident occurred. A safe work plan is in place.

Construction in downtown Orlando may begin tonight in the following areas:

  • The westbound S.R. 408 entrance ramp from Division Avenue may close nightly from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. as soon as March 12-15.
  • The eastbound S.R. 408 exit ramp to eastbound I-4 may close from 10 p.m. tonight (March 12) through 5 a.m. tomorrow (March 13). 
  • The westbound S.R. 408 exit ramp to westbound I-4 may close nightly from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. as soon as March 14-18.Detour Map

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Don't expect to see construction workers on the I-4 Ultimate jobsite, because work is still suspended as the company reviews safety measures.  This comes after the death of a construction worker, 56-year-old Michael Tolman.

"Michael was an ironworker for a subcontractor Shelby Erectors. He died Thursday morning after suffering fatal injuries when he was struck by reinforcing steel at the job site," SGL Project director Brook Brookshire said.

Tolman had 25 years experience in the construction industry.  They're trying to find out why this steel fell on him.

"Michael was a kind hardworking man dedicated to his family. Our deepest sympathies go out to Michael's family and friends."

This is not the first time a construction worker has died since the I-4 Ultimate Project started three years ago.  We asked SGL about concerns regarding three fatalities on job sites. While SGL ignored our question, they said safety is important.

"We will be reviewing the safety protocols in place and we will take all the appropriate action following the investigation to ensure the utmost safety of the project."  

Right now, work on all 21 miles of the I-4 job site has been suspended.

"Regarding whether this incident impacts the work of the project timeline, we accommodate for unforeseen circumstances during the progress of the project."

SGL said there is no set time on when work will resume on the interstate.   The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has opened an investigation into the death of the worker.