- June 30, 2026
The Florida Department of Transportation recently partnered with local fire rescue agencies June 20-28 to provide a hands-on training opportunity inside hotels acquired for right of way as part of the Interstate 95 interchange at U.S. 1 improvements project.
Prior to the planned demolition of the properties, FDOT coordinated with fire rescue from Volusia County, Flagler County, the City of Ormond Beach, and the City of Holly Hill to conduct real-world training exercises. The training allowed first responders to practice emergency response techniques that cannot be replicated in a classroom or traditional training facilities.
“We train the way we operate,” Ormond Beach Fire Capt. Hunter Ramirez said. “Having the opportunity to train alongside several local agencies in a real acquired structure strengthens the relationships and coordination that are critical on emergency scenes. Under our closest unit response agreement, training together helps us operate more efficiently and ultimately provides better service to our communities.”
Participating agencies used the buildings to conduct a variety of realistic exercises designed to improve response capability, strengthen interagency coordination, and enhance preparedness for emergencies. Crews practiced responding to simulated fires by advancing hose lines and performing roof ventilation techniques, which involve
creating openings to safely release smoke from a building. Because these departments frequently respond together through response agreements, training in a shared environment helps ensure consistent procedures, effective communication, and seamless coordination during real emergencies,
“Partnerships like this create benefits beyond transportation,” FDOT District Five Secretary John E. Tyler said. “Before these buildings were removed to make way for critical infrastructure improvements, we wanted to provide additional value to the community. By opening the structures for training, our local first responders gained experience that will help them better serve and protect residents and businesses throughout the region.”
The former hotel properties were acquired to support construction of the I-95 interchange at U.S. 1 improvements project, a major transportation investment designed to improve safety, traffic operations, and connectivity in one of the region's most heavily traveled areas.
Work for this project will include the addition of three new bridges and redesigned loop ramps on I-95 to make it easier and safer for drivers entering and exiting the interstate. Reconstructing the interchange and widening the I-95 on- and off-ramps will add capacity and relieve congestion.
Southbound U.S. 1 motorists will also have an improved route onto southbound I-95. Instead of turning left across traffic at an intersection, they will enter I-95 through an intuitive on-ramp on the right. The project will also widen a 1-mile segment of U.S. 1 between Plantation Oaks Boulevard and Destination Daytona Lane from four to six lanes, separated by a median. A shared-use path for bicyclists and pedestrians will be added along U.S. 1, and a protected signalized crossing will be provided at the interchange. The project is expected to improve traffic flow for approximately 125,000 motorists each day while improving safety.
For more information about the I-95 interchange at U.S. 1 improvements project, visit www.cflroads.com/project/419772-3.
