a three hour tour... (not so much anymore)

Last year I drove to Orlando a number of times from Tampa and learned the hard way what a number of Floridians already knew - the traffic on I-4 between the two cities sucked.

A few years ago the government noticed that the traffic had become so bad at times (especially between Haines City and Walt Disney World) it was almost like gridlock. So the powers that be decided a third lane each way needed to be built. The only problem -- the original I-4 architects didn't always make sure all the bridges that traverse over the interstate were conducive for a six line highway. So a number of bridges have had to be torn down and re-built.

One time last year it took me three freaking hours to drive approximately 85 miles. Let's just say it was only worth it because it was the Necessary Evil pre-release tournament. While the construction isn't completely done, they have opened the third lane in long stretches through Polk County. Let me just say... driving the road is now a lot more enjoyable - and I don't have to worry so much if I'm going to be late to where I'm going anymore because of traffic.