During the preliminary alternative evaluation for the widening of Econlockhatchee Trail, three alternative horizontal alignments were investigated. These alternate alignments were based on left, right and center orientations with respect to existing right-of-way. The alignments were also evaluated based on social, economic and environmental impacts. Impacts included safety, wetlands, cost, right-of-way needs, retention pond location, access management, and residential and business impacts. As a result of this investigation, a preferred alignment was selected that was a combination of these three alternatives. 

Likewise, three typical roadway sections were investigated. Each typical included two 12 foot travel lanes and a bicycle lane in each direction, and 5 foot sidewalks on each side. Typical one was a 200 foot wide rural section which included a 22 foot raised median and drainage swales. Typical two was a 120 foot wide urban section which included a 22 foot raised median with curb and gutter. Typical three was a 120 foot wide urban section which included a 12 foot flush median with curb and gutter.

The preferred alternative typical that was selected was an urban section which included a 22 foot raised, landscaped median, two 12 foot lanes in each direction, 4-foot bicycle lanes and 5 foot sidewalks that require 110 feet of right-of-way. 

The preferred horizontal alignment typical roadway section and evaluation matrix were presented at the September 4, 2002 public meeting. The recommended alternative typical section and evaluation matrix were presented at the February 26, 2003 meeting.

From Lake Underhill Rad to Valencia College Lane the recommended alignment maintains the existing western right-of-way line encroaching to the east. From Valencia College Lane to approximately 1200 feet south of S.R. 50 the alignment is centered on the existing righ-of-way. Of the remaining 1200 feet the first 600 utilizes the right (east) alignment and the remaining 600 feet to S.R. 50 is shifted to the left (west).

The recommended alternative typical section is shown in this graphic.