Orlando, Fla. — The City of Orlando has another mixed-use project in the works.
A nearly 10-acre space beneath the I-4 bridge decks in downtown Orlando is where the “Under-i” Urban Park Project will eventually become “The Bridge District”.
“This is by far the coolest project I’ve ever done,” says Doug Metzger, Chief Planner with the city of Orlando.
Under a Preliminary Vision Plan by the city, the area between Church Street and Washington Street underneath I-4 will be transformed into a mix of sports courts, performance spaces, play areas, vendor opportunities and local heritage experiences.
Construction is tentatively planned for the end of 2022, though, Metzger says it all depends on the completion of the I-4 Ultimate Project overhead.
“If all stays on schedule, we’re still three years away from this park potentially being open."
Conceptual images from the city show the Bridge District sectioned into five themed blocks:
The “Heritage Block” may feature elements including a trail connection to the future Westmoreland to Lake Eola Park Urban Trail and Parramore history pavement displays.
The “Sports Block” is the largest area of the Under‐i Park. It’s designed to include sports and recreation areas, including a basketball court.
The “Play Block” may include a playground and giant sandbox while providing direct access to the LYMMO Grapefruit and Lime lines, as well as other regional LYNX routes.
The “Unity Block” is designed to bring the public together with pop‐up event spaces for performances and areas for group exercise classes.
Finally, the “Market Block” will feature food and vendor kiosks with a wide pedestrian path that connects the Church Street entertainment scene.
On Monday, Orlando filed paperwork to begin the process of selecting a primary consultant to complete the design and construction plans for the future Under-i park.
The city hopes to have a design team selected by summer 2021.
Cox Media Group
