Sanford Airport Connector: New Routes to Orlando Sanford Airport

New Routes to Link S.R. 417 to Orlando Sanford International Airport

March 10, 2025

Story Highlights:

• Two preferred routes (Route 2 and Route 3D) have been selected for the Sanford Airport Connector.
• The project aims to ease traffic congestion on Lake Mary Boulevard, potentially reducing it from 36,700 to 19,800 vehicles per day by 2050.
• Over $300 million in development is planned for the Orlando Sanford International Airport, creating 1,000 new jobs.
• The CFX Board will review the project in fall 2025, with construction timelines yet to be determined.
• Seminole County is positioning itself for major economic growth, with significant investment along the airport corridor.

Sanford Airport Connector: New Routes to Link S.R. 417 to Orlando Sanford International Airport

The Sanford Airport Connector project is moving forward, with two potential routes selected to connect State Road 417 (S.R. 417) directly to Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). As traffic congestion in Seminole County increases, this project aims to provide a more efficient and direct route to the airport, supporting economic growth and upcoming developments.

Two Preferred Routes for the Sanford Airport Connector

During a Feb. 13 Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) meeting, officials narrowed five potential routes down to two options: Route 2 and Route 3D. These routes were selected based on:

✔️ Minimal impact on residential areas
✔️ Cost-effectiveness, with estimated costs of $173.1 million (Route 2) and $177.4 million (Route 3D)

Other options—Routes 1 and 3A—were ruled out due to higher residential impacts, while Route 4, which followed Lake Mary Boulevard, was dismissed due to its $500 million price tag, requiring an elevated viaduct.

What’s Next for the Sanford Airport Expansion?

The development and environment study is expected to be completed by mid-2025, with the project going before the CFX Board in fall 2025 for approval to enter the design phase. A construction timeline has not yet been determined.

However, studies suggest that if no extension is built, Lake Mary Boulevard will experience 36,700 vehicles per day by 2050. The new Sanford Airport Connector could reduce that number to 19,800 vehicles per day, significantly easing congestion.

$300M in Airport Development & 1,000 New Jobs

The Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is undergoing a major transformation, with over $300 million in planned developments and 1,000 new jobs expected.

✔️ 157 acres of airport-owned land already under approved letters of intent
✔️ Major tenants include:

PPK Aviation LLC (36 acres)
EPC Aerospace (66.7 acres)

According to Seminole County Commissioner Jay Zembower, the region’s growth will be concentrated along the Lake Mary Boulevard corridor and the south side of the airport, making it a prime area for investment.

Conclusion

With better connectivity, expanding airport infrastructure, and significant economic investments, Sanford and Seminole County are poised for long-term growth. This new transportation project could transform the region, improving airport accessibility, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting local businesses.

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