On March 12, 2013, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) issued a press release regarding their publication of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) soliciting statements of qualifications from prospective private entities for development and implementation of a public-private partnership for the $2 billion+ Orlando-area project.  FDOT is seeking a private firm that is experienced in designing, building, financing, operating and maintaining both general use and managed lane roadways.   

The I-4 Ultimate Project will be structured as an availability payment transaction.  The project includes the reconstruction of 21 miles of I-4 from west of Kirkman Road in Orange County to east of State Road 434 in Seminole County and adds four tolled Express Lanes to I-4 while maintaining the existing free general use lanes.  As currently contemplated by FDOT, the project includes reconstruction of 15 interchanges, 56 new bridges and 68 bridge replacements.   

The release of the RFQ follows the industry forum held on March 4, 2013 which had over 1,200 industry participants in attendance.  Statements of qualifications are due on March 29, 2013.