According to the Orlando Sentinel, proposed plans to reconfigure the I-4/State Road 535 interchange would require the removal of the popular Crossroads plaza. Home to many restaurants and other offerings, Crossroads sits right next to Walt Disney World, making it a prime location. Interestingly, Disney originally developed the plaza in 1988 but sold it in 2005.
While Disney has apparently met with FDOT to discuss potential plans, it says it only offered feedback on how it would affect their property and not Crossroads. Disney spokesperson Erica Ettori told the Sentinel, “We have long supported efforts to improve I-4 for Central Florida residents and visitors, and like other nearby property owners, were asked to provide feedback on the impact FDOT’s plans and designs could have specific to our property.”
At this time no construction date for the project has been set but the Sentinel reports the right of way acquisition is set to begin in 2018. Lawyers for tenants of Crossroads are apparently working on alternative proposals that would save the shopping center.