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Why Universal will create a special district for SunRail expansion

ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal.

Universal City Development Partners Ltd., an Orlando-based firm related to Universal Parks & Resorts, on Jan. 5 submitted a petition to Orange County commissioners to establish the Shingle Creek Transit Utility Community Development District, a quasi-public district meant to facilitate the development of a SunRail commuter rail station at the Orange County Convention Center.

Read: Brightline reveals first look at new Orlando station at OIA

Known as the Sunshine Corridor Program, this SunRail line would connect workers, business travelers and vacationers in the tourist corridor to the region’s busiest airport. The I-Drive corridor area is also where Universal is building its future $1 billion-plus Epic Universe theme park and a surrounding complex with multiple hotels, restaurants, entertainment, back of house, parking and other support amenities.

Plus, the Sunshine Corridor project provides access to Brightline’s passenger rail connection between Orlando International Airport and South Florida coming later this year.

Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website.

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