City Proposes East West Spine Road to Alleviate Traffic Along Graves Avenue

The Deltona Planning and Zoning meeting held on May 19, 2021, focused on significant transportation infrastructure developments aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the city. Key discussions centered around the proposed East West Spine Road and the Rhode Island Avenue extension, both designed to enhance connectivity and manage traffic flow.

City officials outlined plans for the East West Spine Road, which is intended to relieve traffic on Graves Avenue and El Cam Avenue. The proposal includes dedicating a 60-foot right of way with 10-foot easements on each side, creating an 80-foot wide corridor to accommodate travelways, pedestrian pathways, and utilities. This roadway is expected to extend eastward, linking to the Rhode Island Avenue extension, which has been a long-term goal for the county.

The Rhode Island Avenue extension aims to connect with Veterans Memorial Parkway and eventually reach North Normandy Boulevard, facilitating better access across the interstate. While the project is still in conceptual stages, officials have initiated discussions with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) regarding a potential interchange at Rhode Island Road and Interstate 4. However, they cautioned that this major transportation project could take many years to materialize.

Access to the new developments will be managed through three driveways off Normandy Boulevard, designed to minimize truck traffic in residential areas. These access points will feature turn lanes, with two fully signalized intersections to enhance safety. Additionally, the city plans to implement directional signage and license plate readers to monitor and discourage unauthorized truck traffic.

As the project progresses, certain thresholds will trigger requirements for shift changes at facilities, ensuring that peak traffic hours are less impacted. The city anticipates that the development will generate a need for approximately $5.84 million in roadway improvements, primarily benefiting areas outside Deltona, such as Veterans Memorial Parkway and Kentucky Avenue.

Overall, these infrastructure initiatives are seen as crucial steps toward improving traffic management and enhancing connectivity within Deltona and its surrounding areas.