Orlando drivers are bracing for significant detours and delays as a substantial infrastructure effort to update the city's aging underground utilities commences downtown. Commencing today, road closures will affect the well-traveled stretch of Summerlin Avenue, with a five-month closure slated for the Summerlin Avenue and South Street intersection, according to WFTV. This work marks the beginning of a series of phases aimed at upgrading the water, sewer, and stormwater systems that serve Orlando's residents.
The traffic changes have necessitated reducing westbound South Street to one lane from South Mills Avenue to Summerlin Avenue, as reported by ClickOrlando. To accommodate the detours, city officials are advising drivers to allow extra time and remain patient, as the work is scheduled to continue over the coming months. "We want to be mindful that we don’t want to have problems in the future," Corey Knight, director of public works, underscored the city's commitment to preempt future infrastructure failure.
Businesses in the area are now weighing in on the impacts of the construction. “Being on a business that is on a main street actually was a really big selling point for us because we were seen by a lot of people,” Colleen Casey, general manager of RareTea, stated, as per Spectrum News 13. With decreased visibility and accessibility due to ongoing work, local establishments are witnessing a decline in foot traffic and, consequently, new customers —a critical component of their daily business.
