Orange County is taking strides to enhance pedestrian safety with the approval of a new bridge over one of its busiest intersections. In a decision that sets the stage for a safer passage, county commissioners have voted to fund a study and design a pedestrian bridge at International Drive and Sand Lake Road, an area notorious for its vehicular congestion and pedestrian hazards.
With the recent opening of the Epic Universe theme park, the intersection has experienced a surge in both vehicle and foot traffic. Local Orlando resident Joy Mensch highlighted the risks in a statement obtained by WFTV, saying, "You’re driving and people just dart over." Experts estimate that over 22,000 vehicles travel through this intersection daily, only escalating the potential for accidents in an area already ranked 18th in the country for pedestrian fatalities.
The innovative design proposed for the bridge boasts a drone-like appearance and features modern amenities, including elevators and staircases, to ensure accessibility. Additional features, such as potential solar panels and color-changing lights for nighttime visibility, have been suggested further to enhance the functionality and aesthetic of the bridge. With a projected cost of $35.63 million, Orange County has not yet secured construction funding; however, the design phase is fully funded.
Although the groundbreaking seems distant, with intentions to begin construction in 2027, the county aims to complete the project by 2030, as detailed by WESH.
