Following are several links that will provide valuable information on the Orlando and surrounding county areas in addition to the information on this page:
- Arts & Culture | Attractions | Climate | Demographics
- Economy | Education | History | Healthcare | Immigration
- Just for Kids | Orlando's Backyard | Sports | Transportation
Orlando Transportation I-4 in Orlando, FL AIROrlando is served primarily by Orlando International Airport, though nearby Orlando Sanford International Airport also serves the area. Orlando Executive Airport is used for charter flights and General Aviation ROADSIts major freeway is Interstate 4, which crosses Florida's Turnpike southwest of Downtown Orlando. It is also served by the toll roads of the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority, particularly the East-West Expressway (SR 408), which crosses I-4 downtown. The East West Expressway (SR 408) is undergoing major construction with the addition of lanes, concrete barrier walls, sound walls, and a better scenic view. This project began in 2005 and is not yet complete. Because of the massive urban sprawl in the area and outdated and unplanned transit infrastructure, traffic congestion is a growing concern. Fundamentally, the lack of east-west mobility in the area creates severe traffic issues every weekday. RAILSThe Orlando area is served by one through railroad, CSX Transportation's A line (formerly the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad's main line), and some spurs, mostly operated by the Florida Central Railroad. Amtrak passenger service runs along the CSX A line. See also a map of these railroads. In 2005 Federal and state funding was granted for the establishment of the Central Florida Commuter Rail service to operate on the CSX A line tracks between Deltona and Poinciana, passing through the downtown area and surrounding urban neighborhoods along the way. The service is expected to substantially reduce traffic congestion along the I-4 corridor, especially between downtown Orlando and the suburban communities in Seminole and Volusia Counties. The Federal and state funds would cover approximately 80% of the estimated $400 million cost for track modifications and construction of stations along the route. Pending approval by the county governments (Volusia, Seminole, Orange and Osceola) involved and the set aside of matching funds, the line is projected to begin operations in 2009. The following major railroad stations have existed in Orlando: - Amtrak Orlando station (originally built by ACL to replace Church Street Station, the only one still in use) - Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Orlando station (now Church Street Station, a tourist attraction) - Seaboard Air Line Railroad Orlando station (Central Avenue Station) BUSESOrlando is served by LYNX, which runs bus service in the tri-county area (Osceola-Orange-Seminole). LIGHT RAILSeveral attempts have been made to bring a light rail system to Orlando, but each one has met with failure due to a perceived lack of public interest and various conflicts over a potential route. Walt Disney World officials have been particularly adamant that a light rail line run from Orlando International Airport to the resort, drawing opposition from other vacation destinations who fear loss of business. Local residents also oppose the idea of funding what is essentially a private beeline to Disney that will do little to alleviate the growing traffic problems in the area. This is in addition to the statewide debate over high speed rail, the various plans of which all center around Orlando. |
