Crane topples in Orlando, closing SR 408 on-ramp

No injuries reported; power knocked out to nearby traffic signals

ORLANDO, Fla. – A 300-ton construction crane working on the I-4 Ultimate project toppled Wednesday morning in downtown Orlando, closing a State Road 408 on-ramp and knocking out power to traffic signals in the area.

The incident was reported around 5:30 a.m. at S.R. 408 near Anderson Street and Division Avenue.

Russ Handler, spokesman of SGL, the company conducting the project, said the operator was maneuvering the crane into place for a girder lift Wednesday night when it tipped over.

It's not known what caused the crane, which was damaged, to topple.

The operator inside had to be rescued and was taken to a hospital, Handler said. He was in good condition, according to Handler.

Handler said crews will cut off the bottom of the crane, which was blocking the on-ramp to S.R. 408. The reopened before 1 p.m. Wednesday.

Electricity to traffic signals was knocked out at the following intersections:

  • Anderson and Division -- all directions
  • Anderson and I-4 East entrance

Crews later restored power. 

[INTERACTIVE TRAFFIC MAP: Check conditions for your commute]

The I-4 Ultimate project is a six-year, $2.3 billion makeover of a 21-mile stretch of Interstate 4, from Kirkman Road in Orange County to State Road 434 in Seminole County. 

No other details have been released.

Watch News 6 and stay with ClickOrlando.com for updates.


About the Author:

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

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