The website Lodging Hospitality took a look at all the plans in development downtown that will offer more for Orlando visitors. First up is a number of hotel projects. 18 hotels are in various stages of planning, with three expected to open soon.
Transit improvements are also happening. SunRail, a 61-mile communter rail that's been in development for several years broke ground in 2011 and should be running by 2014. The new rail connections will give both locals and visitors more options for getting around the city. Other rail projects that would include a light rail connector to the airport and a rail line serving I-Drive are also under consideration, but not in the city's long range plans yet.
Finally, new entertainment complexes are being added. The Amway Center opened last year and has already hosted events such as Magic basketball games and musical concerts. The new performing arts center started construction last year and should be open in 2014. The old Amway Arena is being torn down now and will be replaced with a mixed-used residential and entertainment complex that's being billed as a "creative village" for Orlando.
All the new development and construction will help Orlando stay competitive in the tourism industry and give visitors more places to explore beyond the theme parks.
Comments