Governor DeSantis also highlighted Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s new partnership with FDOT to advance research on emerging transportation technology
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.-Today, at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the accelerated start of construction for a $56 million transportation project that will bring significant safety and efficiency improvements to Clyde Morris Boulevard (State Road 483) in Daytona Beach. The governor also highlighted Embry-Riddle’s new partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation, which will provide major contributions to the emerging transportation technology field, particularly in Advanced Air Mobility and Autonomous Vehicles.
“Great to be at Embry-Riddle today to highlight Florida’s leadership in advanced air mobility,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I signed legislation last year to recognize AAM as an official mode of transportation in Florida. Now, we’re building the infrastructure to test these emerging technologies.”
“Improvements to Clyde Morris Boulevard have been a top priority for this region for years,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Accelerating this project by two years will bring essential safety improvements to a very important corridor for Volusia County, Daytona Beach, and Embry-Riddle University.”
“We are deeply grateful for the visionary leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, the Florida Legislature, and the Florida Department of Transportation, whose commitment has positioned our state as the nation’s leader in advanced air mobility, workforce transformation and the creation of essential jobs that will benefit Floridians for decades to come,” said Embry-Riddle President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D. “The cutting-edge research taking place in Embry-Riddle’s Center for Advanced Air Mobility at its Research Park campus represents the university’s commitment to advancing innovation while also fueling economic development, evolving Florida’s supply chain and creating exponential new pathways for career and job prospects across the state.”
The infrastructure improvements include a new pedestrian tunnel under Clyde Morris Boulevard just north of the main entrance to Embry-Riddle, new raised medians in the nearly 3-mile corridor, wider sidewalks, a 14-foot-wide shared-use path, traffic signal reconstruction, and a new pedestrian crossing at Buccaneer Way. The project will improve transportation operations and safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers along Clyde Morris Boulevard.
Thanks to the State of Florida’s strong partnerships with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Volusia County, and the City of Daytona Beach, each donated right of way which contributed to accelerating the project’s timeline. Construction will begin this fall along Clyde Morris Boulevard from Beville Road to Mason Avenue in Daytona Beach with the project being built in three segments over the next three years. Construction is estimated to reach completion by 2029.
These transportation improvements will take place near Embry-Riddle and highlights the continuation of a strong partnership between the university and the State of Florida, which has resulted in pivotal research and crucial workforce development for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) technology.
This cutting-edge AAM technology has the potential to provide new transportation options for passenger air taxis, cargo delivery, medical transportation and emergency response. Florida’s investment in AAM reflects Florida’s vision of relieving congestion with new travel options, strengthening the state’s supply chain, and supporting a safe and efficient travel experience for residents and visitors.
To ensure forward progress on the deployment of AAM, Florida has partnered with Embry-Riddle to carry out critical research on an accelerated timeline. This research will fill the gaps in existing data, operational frameworks, and readiness models. Also, institutions such as Embry-Riddle and Polk State College will help to develop training and credentialing opportunities for the next generation of pilots, maintenance technicians, engineers, and other transportation professionals. These partnerships will help ensure Florida has the skilled personnel needed to test, maintain, and operate advanced transportation technology as the industry continues to grow.
With transportation having a direct impact to Floridian’s quality of life, our state continues to accelerate meaningful infrastructure projects like this one. Advancing this project two years ahead of schedule will deliver vital community enhancements sooner to this heavily traveled pedestrian and tourist corridor.
