About This Episode
On this Orlando Update we discuss the latest developments in the dissolution of Disney’s Reedy Creek Improvement District, discover plans for Universal Studios to facilitate a new SunRail station close to Universal’s Epic Universe and Orange County Convention Center and get a first look at the Brightline Train Station located at Orlando International Airport.
Transcript
Welcome to the first of what will become a regular series on The Orlando Guy channel featuring Orlando Updates of interest to those visiting and those living in Orlando and Central Florida. My name is Richard, your host, and let’s dive into the Orlando Update for this episode.
The cloud over what will happen with the Reedy Creek Improvement District may be lifting as a public notice filed on the Osceola County website states that there is an “intent to seek legislation before the Florida Legislature during a regular, extended, or special session” imposing a state-controlled board which will replace the District. This is the first salvo launched by the state regarding the future of Reedy Creek. The dissolution of Disney’s Reedy Creek Improvement District governing body is set for June 2023.
Universal Orlando Resort is helping to get a new SunRail Station built near Universal’s Epic Universe the new theme park set to open in 2025. Universal City Development Partners submitted a petition to Orange County commissioners to establish the Shingle Creek Transit Utility Community Development District. That’s a mouthful, but it’s meant to be a quasi-public district facilitating the development of a SunRail commuter rail station at the Orange County Convention Center. Known as the Sunshine Corridor Program, this SunRail line would connect workers, business travelers and vacationers in the tourist corridor to the Orlando airport. The goal is to have trains running by 2030. The Sunshine Corridor will also provide crucial access to the Brightline passenger train connecting Orlando International Airport and South Florida which begins service later this year.
Speaking of Brightline, we now have a first look at the brand-new Brightline Orlando Train station. Brightline released a video and renderings of the future station, located at Orlando International Airport, that will connect millions and regionalize the state. The station spans three-stories featuring an upscale retail experience with convenient in-station shopping and its Mary Mary Bar, serving hand-crafted cocktails and lite bites. Brightline will offer two classes of service, SMART and PREMIUM. Brightline’s PREMIUM service, will provide complimentary drinks and snacks in a dedicated lounge and train coach. Throughout the station, all guests will have access to free high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations at every seat, 87 big screen televisions and a children’s play area located in the SMART lounge. Brightline service from Orlando to Miami will begin in 2023.
That’s the Orlando Update for now, click the like button, subscribe to my channel set the notification bell so you don’t miss an update. I’m Richard – The Orlando Guy. See you next time.