Orlando Mayor Dyer and District 2 City Commissioner Tony Ortiz Announce $1 Million in Federal Funds Dedicated Towards the Semoran Neighborhood

WHAT:
Today, Monday, December 5, the Orlando City Council are expected to approve a $1 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to further enhance the Semoran Boulevard corridor.

The funding will go towards the Semoran Boulevard Sidewalk and Streetscape Improvement project. The project consists of streetscape elements including widening sidewalks, upgraded crosswalks at signalized intersections and upgrades to the ADA ramps that will improve pedestrian safety and aid in the revitalization of the corridor. The project extends from Curry Ford Road to Colonial Drive along Semoran Boulevard. Construction is expected to take 12 months and start in fall of 2012.

“I would like to thank the Department of Transportation for its collaboration with the Semoran community and Mayor Dyer for his continued support to revitalize the Semoran corridor, the main gate of our region,” said City Commissioner Ortiz. “As we continue to revitalize this area we will boost opportunities to attract investment that, in turn, will create much needed jobs and increased property values for our residents.”

The construction of the Semoran Boulevard Sidewalk and Streetscape Improvement project is one of the goals outlined in the vision plan for the area. The Semoran Boulevard Vision Plan, developed under Commissioner Ortiz’s leadership, is a long-term guide for future development and improvements in the area. Through the vision plan process, the City has engaged the entire Semoran neighborhood to shape the community's future, revitalization efforts and positioning it for future development. The vision plan area includes Semoran Boulevard from Grant Street to Banco Popular on the North side of the 408 Expressway.

WHEN:
Monday, December 5, 2011
2 p.m.

WHERE:
Council Chambers
Orlando City Hall

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