Florida's I-4 is facing a critical safety issue as its already narrow shoulders are set to become even slimmer with the initiation of a $2. 5 billion improvement project. Road ranger Vernon Stewart, who has been assisting stranded motorists for over a decade, emphasizes the dangers he faces while working on this heavily trafficked road. The project aims to widen a congested 14-mile stretch of the interstate starting near Disney Springs, but it will also reduce shoulder widths to two feet, creating hazardous conditions for both drivers and assistance workers. Statistics from AAA reveal that shoulder-related fatalities account for approximately 12% of interstate deaths, highlighting the significant risks involved.

Stewart's reluctance to work on I-4 reflects a broader concern for the safety of roadside workers during the decade-long construction period. As the state promises timely completion of the project, the need for improved highway safety measures remains pressing. The article serves as a call to action for addressing the dangers posed by narrow shoulders on one of the nation's most congested highways. Overall, the story captures the intersection of infrastructure development and public safety in Central Florida.