SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Orlando Sanford International Airport is still on the rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, but growth in the future is expected to put big demands on the roads surrounding the airfield.

So airport leaders are pushing the Central Florida Expressway Authority for a direct connection between the entrance to Sanford’s airport and State Road 417.

“It’s a prerequisite in order to grow appropriately to meet the demands of the metropolitan area,” said Tom Nolan, airport president and chief executive officer.

The growth at the airport and thousands of homes being built near the airfield have already caused traffic congestion on Lake Mary Boulevard and Ronald Reagan Boulevard near the airport and State Road 417.

“It’s very hectic to get around,” airport dispatcher Yadiel Mendez said.

Traffic will only get worse in the coming years, according to airport, Sanford and Seminole County leaders.

An airport connector study could kick off later this year, the expressway authority indicated.

Keith Melendez, who works as a ground operations agent, said the connector would shave off time his commute to work.

“I have a dog at home, and I’d love to spend a lot more time with her,” he said.

A concept, feasibility and mobility study is in the early development process for a project, so it could be years before it is clear where exactly the 417 would connect to the airport.