Big Changes Coming to I-95 and U.S. 1: What Arbor Lake Residents Need to Know
If you’ve driven through the I-95 and U.S. 1 interchange lately, you’ve probably noticed that something big is happening.
And by “big,” we mean $130 million big.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is undertaking a major reconstruction of the I-95/U.S. 1 interchange in Ormond Beach. The project is designed to reduce congestion, improve safety, increase capacity and make getting on and off I-95 considerably more intuitive.
For those of us in Arbor Lake, this is an important project to understand because this interchange is part of our everyday transportation network.
The good news? The finished project should make getting around the area easier and safer.
The not-so-good news? We have to get through several years of construction first.
What Exactly Is Being Changed?
The project, identified by FDOT as FPID 419772-3, involves a major reconstruction of the I-95/U.S. 1 interchange. Construction began in 2026, with completion currently estimated for summer 2029.
The improvements include:
Reconstructing and redesigning the I-95 loop ramps
Adding three new bridges
Widening I-95 entrance and exit ramps
Widening U.S. 1 from four lanes to six lanes through the primary project area
Adding a shared-use path for pedestrians and bicyclists
Adding protected, signalized pedestrian crossings
Improving drainage and utilities
Improving traffic signal timing
Adding landscaping and architectural features to create a more attractive gateway into Ormond Beach
The project covers approximately 6.39 miles, with work extending along I-95 and U.S. 1.
One of the Biggest Changes: Southbound U.S. 1 to Southbound I-95
If you've ever traveled south on U.S. 1 and tried to get onto southbound I-95, you know the current configuration can be a little... well, let's just say less than intuitive.
The new design changes that.
Instead of making a left turn across opposing traffic, motorists traveling southbound on U.S. 1 will use a new ramp that turns right and carries them over the Florida East Coast Railway tracks before connecting with southbound I-95.
FDOT says the new configuration is intended to reduce conflicting movements and provide a safer, more direct connection.
In other words, one of those driving maneuvers that currently requires a little extra attention should become much more straightforward.
U.S. 1 Is Going From Four Lanes to Six
Another major change will be the widening of U.S. 1.
Within the primary project area, U.S. 1 will be widened from four lanes to six lanes, with a median separating the directions of travel. The project also includes additional resurfacing farther south toward Hull Road.
Why the additional lanes?
The area surrounding the interchange continues to grow, with new residential, commercial and medical development planned or underway. The additional capacity is intended to accommodate increasing traffic volumes.
And yes, we're all thinking the same thing:
More people + more businesses + more traffic = probably a good time to add another lane.
It's Not Just About Cars
The project also recognizes that not everyone travels through the area behind the wheel.
A new shared-use path will be constructed along U.S. 1 for pedestrians and bicyclists, along with protected and signalized crossings at the interchange.
That means the finished project should provide improved connections for people walking or riding bicycles as well as those driving.
And There's Going to Be a New Ormond Beach Gateway
There's also a little local pride built into the project.
FDOT describes the new interchange as a showcase gateway to Ormond Beach, with architectural and aesthetic elements designed to reflect the community.
One particularly nice touch: “Ormond Beach” will be displayed on the interchange bridge welcoming motorists traveling southbound on U.S. 1.
So when the project is finished, it won't simply be a bigger interchange. It is also intended to become a recognizable entrance to our community.
What About All the Construction?
Here's where Arbor Lake residents need to pay attention.
There will be construction impacts over the next several years. FDOT says motorists should expect nighttime lane closures, changing traffic patterns, periodic ramp closures, reduced speeds and construction activity.
The good news is that the project team says it is working to minimize those impacts.
According to the construction team:
Lane closures will generally be limited to nighttime hours.
Full closures will be announced in advance.
No full closure of I-95 in either direction is planned.
Only one I-95 ramp will be closed at a time when ramp closures are necessary.
Access to residences and businesses will be maintained.
Major closures are expected to receive advance notification.
When U.S. 1 must be closed for certain bridge construction activities, closures will occur overnight and traffic will be restored each morning.
Construction will avoid select holidays and special community events.
FDOT's current project information confirms that nighttime closures are already underway. As of September 2026, southbound I-95 lanes between north of the U.S. 1 interchange and North Tymber Creek Road are scheduled for phased nighttime closures from 8:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.
So if you're heading out late at night—or coming home in the early morning—slow down and pay attention to the signs.
Why Does It Feel Like Everything Is Being Built at Once?
If you've been wondering why there seems to be construction everywhere around U.S. 1 and I-95, you're not imagining it.
The construction team specifically noted work associated with the growing Ormond Crossings development, FDOT drainage improvements along U.S. 1, City of Ormond Beach utility work, and other planned development.
New businesses are also expected in the surrounding area, including Wawa, Circle K, Murphy Oil and a future AdventHealth facility.
In other words, this isn't simply an interchange being rebuilt in isolation.
The entire area is growing—and the transportation infrastructure is being upgraded to accommodate that growth.
A Project That Was Moved Forward—Way Forward
Here's an interesting part of the story.
According to FDOT, this project was originally not funded for right-of-way acquisition or construction. The Moving Florida Forward initiative helped advance the project an estimated 15 to 20 years earlier than it otherwise would have moved into construction.
FDOT also used a newer Modified Phased Design-Build delivery method to accelerate construction and identify potential cost savings.
That acceleration is significant because instead of waiting another decade or two for a project of this magnitude, we're watching it happen now.
What Will the Finished Project Mean for Arbor Lake?
While Arbor Lake isn't directly part of the interchange construction, many of us use this section of U.S. 1 and I-95 regularly.
When completed, the project is expected to provide:
More capacity Six lanes on U.S. 1 through the primary project area should provide additional room for growing traffic volumes.
Safer connectionsThe redesigned ramps and new bridges are intended to reduce conflicting traffic movements.
Better I-95 accessThe new southbound U.S. 1 connection should make entering southbound I-95 much more straightforward.
Better pedestrian and bicycle connectionsNew shared-use paths and protected crossings will improve non-vehicle connectivity.
Improved appearanceLandscaping and architectural elements will give the interchange a more finished, community-oriented appearance.
Better infrastructure for future growthThe improvements are being designed not just for today's traffic but for the continued development of the area.
Construction Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
The estimated completion date is summer 2029, so we're going to be living with construction for a while.
There will undoubtedly be days when the traffic is frustrating, a lane is closed when you least expect it, or you find yourself wondering, “Why did I take this road today?”
That's construction.
But the project team is making an effort to keep residents and motorists informed as work progresses.
FDOT encourages drivers to follow posted signs, reduce speed and remain alert when traveling through the work zone.
Stay Informed
FDOT has created an I-95 at U.S. 1 Community Hub, where residents can learn more about the project and connect directly with the project team.
You can also find project information, current lane closures and updates on the FDOT project website.
Project: I-95 Interchange at U.S. 1Project Number: 419772-3Estimated Completion: Summer 2029Construction Cost: $130 million
For the latest information, visit the FDOT project page for I-95 at U.S. 1.
FDOT's current contact for project questions is Zoe Vogt, Communications Team, at (386) 238-9798 or Zoe.Vogt@dot.state.fl.us.
One Last Thought for Our Arbor Lake Neighbors
For the next few years, we may have to trade a little convenience for a much-improved transportation system.
So when you're creeping through a construction zone, watching workers move dirt at 10 p.m., or taking a slightly different route home, remember:
They're not just rebuilding an interchange. They're building the transportation infrastructure for the Ormond Beach of tomorrow.
And hopefully, by the summer of 2029, we'll all be saying:
“Remember how crazy that construction was?”
— Prestwick II HOA / Arbor Lake Community
