News Summary
Metroplan Orlando is seeking input from residents in Osceola, Orange, and Seminole Counties to address traffic concerns as part of its Metropolitan Transportation Plan for 2050. With a growing population projected to reach 3.2 million and freight tonnage expected to rise by 70%, a community meeting titled ‘Journey to 2050’ will gather feedback on local transportation needs. Residents have expressed concerns about safety and increasing congestion exacerbated by development, emphasizing the importance of effective traffic management solutions.
Orlando – Metroplan Orlando is actively seeking input from residents of Osceola, Orange, and Seminole Counties regarding traffic concerns as part of its plan for the “Metropolitan Transportation Plan” for 2050. The region’s population, which currently stands at 2.4 million, is projected to increase by an additional 778,000 by 2050. Additionally, freight tonnage is expected to rise by 70%.
To facilitate public engagement, a community meeting titled “Journey to 2050” will occur on Monday. This gathering aims to collect essential feedback from the community on their transportation needs moving forward. The organization emphasizes the significance of incorporating community values into the 2050 plan, particularly in matters concerning public safety, cost of living, and the accessibility of transportation options.
Community concern regarding safety and daily traffic delays has been mounting. Osceola County resident Damian Borges highlighted the urgency of addressing road widenings due to increased development. He expressed dissatisfaction over ongoing construction efforts that do not adequately resolve existing traffic dilemmas. Speaking from his prior experiences with heavy traffic in major cities, he recommended that local authorities halt new construction until current traffic issues are adequately addressed.
In a similar vein, Orange County resident Jose Torres emphasized the necessity for enhanced traffic navigation solutions during accidents occurring on Interstate 4.
The upcoming community meeting marks the first of several discussions aimed at tackling Central Florida’s traffic issues. Following the community input, the Metroplan Orlando board is set to vote on December 10 concerning the next five years of the transportation plan.
In conjunction with these discussions, residents in Tangelo Park have voiced concerns related to worsening traffic conditions due to the proximity of the new Epic Universe theme park. Despite government assurances that ongoing construction would alleviate congestion, community members remain wary of the projected increase in traffic.
Orange County Commissioner Michael Scott reported that safety and traffic management measures have been put into place in Tangelo Park; however, residents still encounter persistent traffic challenges. New traffic patterns introduced in the area have led to confusion among drivers, further contributing to the issues faced by locals.
Notably, longtime Tangelo Park resident Kristina mentioned that while some traffic conditions have improved, congestion remains a significant problem. Similarly, in Casselberry, residents like Jan Delaney have identified specific hazardous intersections, requesting dedicated turning lanes and arrows to enhance safety.
Topics of concern also extend to state-level responses. Officials from the Florida Department of Transportation indicated that no changes will be made to certain intersections, even amid residents’ protests regarding safety.
Overall, the situation in Central Florida underscores an urgent need for strategies to address the escalating traffic conditions arising from rapid growth and development in the region. Metroplan Orlando’s initiative to engage the public reflects an understanding of the complexities of the transportation challenges ahead, as it seeks to align future infrastructure plans with the needs and values of the communities they serve.
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Additional Resources
- Click Orlando: Tangelo Park Residents Traffic Concerns
- Fox 35 Orlando: Traffic Concerns Video
- Tallahassee.com: Crosswalk Removals and First Amendment
- Orlando Sentinel: SunRail Extension Study
- MyNews13: Traffic Concerns SR 436
- Wikipedia: Traffic
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
