I-4 Ultimate Project behind schedule, contractor says

ORLANDO, Fla. (FOX 35 ORLANDO) - Just like afternoon traffic along Interstate 4, the I-4 Ultimate Project is backed-up. 

The 20-plus mile construction project was to be completed in early 2021. Now, the contractor behind the massive makeover, SGL, is putting on the brakes, saying they need more time and money to finish the job.

The latest monthly report  from SGL to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) states that a series of events -- from cracked bridge supports to Hurricane Irma -- have delayed the project and put the contractor 266 days behind.  SGL says it will take tens of millions of dollars to get their timetable back on track. Steve Olsen with FDOT says SGL needs to find a way to finish on time.  

"2021 remains firm and no monetary considerations have been granted outside of the contract," Olsen tells FOX 35.

When asked whether SGL will be allowed to cut corners to reach their deadlines, Olsen said, “I'm not going to speculate what the contractor is going to do, but there are other options available."

The possibilities of delays are not sitting well with small business owners along I-4. Andy Buddenhagen owns a vape shop and says he’s watching profits go up in smoke.

"Once that started, our business went down 5-to-7,000 dollars per week," Buddenhagen says.

Buddenhagen says he hopes the road is finished soon, so life and business can return to normal.