NEWS: Special Taxing District APPROVED For Universal Orlando

As far as Orlando theme park news goes, Disney World has gotten a lot of the hype following recent announcements and changes.

Universal Studios Orlando

However, Disney World isn’t the only theme park with HUGE changes in store! As you may already know, Universal Orlando is in the process of adding an all new theme park to the resort — Epic Universe. However, Universal has even MORE in store when it comes to expanding its theme parks and making them more accessible to the greater Orlando area.

According to the Orlando Business Journal, Orange County approved the creation of a special taxing district at Universal Orlando Resort on October 10th, 2023. This taxing district — the Shingle Creek Transit & Utility Community Development District — will assist in funding the proposed Sunshine Corridor, which will connect passenger trains to International Drive and Orlando International Airport.

Universal Orlando

This approval follows Universal Destinations and Experiences’ application to the country for a quasi-public district that would be created on 719 acres which includes the site of the upcoming Epic Universe park. 13 of those acres are currently reserved for a proposed train station along Destination Parkway.

Epic Universe construction

The train station will be tied to the shared rail corridor for the Brightline train as well as the local commuter train: SunRail.

Brightline

Wow! We’ll continue to keep you updated with more news regarding this upcoming district. Make sure to follow along for more theme park news so that you’re always in the loop.