In Miami, the extensive $840 million I-395/SR 836/I-95 Design-Build Project is currently in progress, scheduled for completion in late 2027. The project's focal point is a remarkable bridge adorned with six arches, spanning 1,025 feet across I-395.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Greater Miami Expressway Agency (GMX) have joined forces for this significant infrastructure endeavor aimed at enhancing traffic flow, safety, and accessibility in Miami-Dade County. This project is particularly critical as the involved highways converge at a key interchange, facilitating over 450,000 vehicle trips daily and serving as crucial access points to communities, ports, tourist destinations, and various other locations.
To optimize traffic flow, extra lanes are being incorporated into I-95 and SR 836 as part of the project. These expansions are anticipated to decrease travel times by up to 20% during peak hours. Additionally, the revamped roadways will integrate several safety enhancements, such as wider shoulders, improved signage, and advanced crash prevention technologies, collectively creating a safer and more efficient driving environment. The initiative also encompasses the construction of a new upper deck over the Dolphin Expressway (SR 836), designed to enhance the flow between SR 836 and Interstate 95.
A distinctive aspect of this project is the proposed 33-acre urban park beneath I-395, named The Underdeck. This green space, aligned with the project's environmental goals, will incorporate recycled materials and energy-efficient construction methods. The Underdeck is conceived as an urban oasis, playing a role in environmental sustainability by mitigating the urban heat island effect.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Greater Miami Expressway Agency (GMX) have joined forces for this significant infrastructure endeavor aimed at enhancing traffic flow, safety, and accessibility in Miami-Dade County. This project is particularly critical as the involved highways converge at a key interchange, facilitating over 450,000 vehicle trips daily and serving as crucial access points to communities, ports, tourist destinations, and various other locations.
To optimize traffic flow, extra lanes are being incorporated into I-95 and SR 836 as part of the project. These expansions are anticipated to decrease travel times by up to 20% during peak hours. Additionally, the revamped roadways will integrate several safety enhancements, such as wider shoulders, improved signage, and advanced crash prevention technologies, collectively creating a safer and more efficient driving environment. The initiative also encompasses the construction of a new upper deck over the Dolphin Expressway (SR 836), designed to enhance the flow between SR 836 and Interstate 95.
A distinctive aspect of this project is the proposed 33-acre urban park beneath I-395, named The Underdeck. This green space, aligned with the project's environmental goals, will incorporate recycled materials and energy-efficient construction methods. The Underdeck is conceived as an urban oasis, playing a role in environmental sustainability by mitigating the urban heat island effect.
Project Highlights:
Improved Traffic Flow: Capacity additions and lane reconfigurations aim to alleviate congestion and weaving, especially around the bustling interchange and the Health District.
Enhanced Safety: Implementation of dedicated lanes for local and through traffic on I-395, coupled with improvements in pedestrian safety through new sidewalks, crosswalks, and a bridge over the FEC tracks.
Community Connections: The creation of a signature six-arched bridge spanning Biscayne Boulevard is set to establish a new Miami landmark. This bridge will enhance the pedestrian experience with a continuous trail and public spaces beneath it.
Enhanced Safety: Implementation of dedicated lanes for local and through traffic on I-395, coupled with improvements in pedestrian safety through new sidewalks, crosswalks, and a bridge over the FEC tracks.
Community Connections: The creation of a signature six-arched bridge spanning Biscayne Boulevard is set to establish a new Miami landmark. This bridge will enhance the pedestrian experience with a continuous trail and public spaces beneath it.
Specific Improvements:
SR 836:
Introduction of a double-decked section for direct connection to MacArthur Causeway or I-95 South. Reconfiguration between NW 12th Ave and I-95 to eliminate weaving and enhance access.
I-95 Interchange: Widening of the eastbound SR 836 ramp to I-95 northbound. Extension of the auxiliary lane on northbound I-95. I-95: Replacement and repairs of concrete pavement between NW 8th St and NW 29th St.
I-395: Complete reconstruction with dedicated lanes for local and through traffic. Connection to Miami Beach and SR 836 west of NW 17th Ave. Introduction of a collector-distributor system for local traffic.
I-95 Interchange: Widening of the eastbound SR 836 ramp to I-95 northbound. Extension of the auxiliary lane on northbound I-95. I-95: Replacement and repairs of concrete pavement between NW 8th St and NW 29th St.
I-395: Complete reconstruction with dedicated lanes for local and through traffic. Connection to Miami Beach and SR 836 west of NW 17th Ave. Introduction of a collector-distributor system for local traffic.
Bridges:
I-395 bridges built at higher elevations with fewer columns to allow for community spaces underneath, including a trail and pedestrian bridge.
Benefits:
The I-395/SR 836/I-95 Design-Build Project is anticipated to bring about the following advantages: Reduce traffic congestion and improve travel times Enhance safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists Connect communities and improve access to key destinations Create a new Miami landmark with the signature bridge and public spaces Boost economic development by improving transportation infrastructure.
Feel free to reach out to David Freed, a Miami Real Estate Agent, for any of your real estate needs in Brickell and Miami.
