Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the suspension of tolls across Central and West Florida, including Alligator Alley, in anticipation of Hurricane Milton. This measure aims to facilitate a smoother evacuation process for residents and visitors as local officials issue evacuation orders. The toll suspension will last for seven days, starting at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, October 7, 2024.
“At my direction, tolls are suspended today as of 10:30 AM,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “With evacuation orders imminent, this will help keep traffic moving and be one less thing for people to worry about ahead of Milton.”
Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue emphasized the importance of this decision in ensuring public safety during the hurricane preparations. “The Department is committed to ensuring motorists can get where they need to go as quickly and safely as possible, especially in preparation for a major hurricane. Suspending tolls across the central and west part of the state and Alligator Alley offers an additional option for families to easily get out of the storm’s direct path,” he stated.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise (FTE) will halt toll collection from October 7 until noon on October 14. The suspension may be extended if necessary due to changing conditions.
The facilities affected by this order include those in Collier, Broward, Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Osceola, Orange, Lake, Seminole, Sumter, and Polk counties. Toll facilities operated by FDOT, FTE, Central Florida Expressway Authority, and Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority are included.
To aid traffic flow during evacuations along Interstate 4 (I-4) and portions of Interstate 75 (I-75), FDOT is implementing Emergency Shoulder Use strategies.
For real-time updates on road conditions during emergencies such as Hurricane Milton’s approach, drivers can use Florida’s 511 Traveler Information System via FL511.com or its mobile app available on Apple and Android devices.
