Universal Orlando and Orlando’s Right Rail coalition have announced plans for a SunRail route between Orlando International Airport and the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC).
The new rail station at the OCCC, which is close to Universal’s Epic Universe theme park, will be planned, financed, built, operated, owned and maintained by a new community development district.
“We are one step closer to creating a multi-directional commuter rail system that benefits our entire region,” said John Sprouls, executive vice president and chief administrative officer of Universal Parks & Resorts.
“The new SunRail corridor and convention center station will make it easier for residents to get to work, the airport and to the places they love. And it will enable business growth within the International Drive area and across the region.”
Per a news release, rail transportation experts have said the ‘Sunshine Corridor‘ could become one of the most important commuter rail routes.
“We’ve known for years that connectivity between the airport and International Drive area will be essential to our entire region’s future,” added Maria Triscari, president of the International Drive Chamber of Commerce, which sponsors Orlando’s Right Rail.
“This new station is great news for our entire community.”
SunRail corridor and station
Universal Orlando is pledging 13 acres of land to the new district to be used for the OCCC’s station. The resort will also support the operation and maintenance of the station.
“The Sunshine Corridor is critical to moving our workforce,” said Orlando mayor Buddy Dyer, chairman of the Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission.
“Creating a transportation network that connects our workers to their jobs, our residents to our airport, and allows our visitors to have options when they travel is essential.”
NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell recently confirmed that construction on Epic Universe is on track for a 2025 opening. Epic Universe will be Universal’s largest theme park in the US.
Images: Universal / Orlando’s Right Rail
