Poinciana Parkway Southport Connector PD&E Study

Ardurra conducted the Southport Connector Expressway PD&E Study, identified in the Osceola County Expressway Authority Master Plan, to evaluate transportation alternatives that would provide connectivity and reduce congestion in the Poinciana community. The study analyzed limited-access new-alignment alternatives from Pleasant Hill Road to Florida's Turnpike, spanning approximately 10 miles of new controlled-access freeway.

The environmental and engineering evaluation required coordination with multiple federal and state agencies while conducting specialized wildlife surveys for protected species, including Audubon's crested caracara, the Everglade snail kite, and the Florida grasshopper sparrow. Comprehensive assessments addressed wetland habitat mapping, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder coordination throughout the study process.

Key Study Components:

• Managed corridor evaluation for a 10-mile limited-access expressway from Pleasant Hill Road to Florida's Turnpike

• Conducted specialized wildlife surveys for Audubon's crested caracara, Everglade snail kite, and Florida grasshopper sparrow

• Performed wetland habitat mapping and assessment with detailed field reviews for endangered and protected species

• Coordinated with federal agencies, including SEMO, FHWA, USFWS, and other stakeholders throughout the PD&E study process

• Evaluated phased interchange construction alternatives and design options to avoid Section 4(f) resource impacts

• Assessed indirect and cumulative effects with comprehensive air/noise assessment and cultural resource evaluation

• Managed GIS habitat and land suitability mapping supporting corridor evaluation and environmental impact assessment

The completed Alternative Corridor Evaluation Report (ACER) achieved historic recognition as the first ACER approved by FHWA in Florida. The study provides a foundation for Environmental Assessment or Environmental Impact Statement development while demonstrating innovative approaches to complex transportation corridor planning and environmental compliance.