Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Summerlin Avenue Improvement Project Begins in Orlando

Construction underway for the Summerlin Avenue Improvement Project, improving infrastructure in downtown Orlando.

News Summary

The Summerlin Avenue Improvement Project is now underway in downtown Orlando after a brief delay. This construction phase will significantly alter traffic flow, particularly as a section of South Street is reduced to one lane starting May 5. As part of a $26 million investment, the project aims to upgrade crucial infrastructure, including water systems and road surfaces, while prioritizing community communication and accessibility. The city is committed to minimizing disruptions for residents and local businesses during the three-year construction timeline.

Orlando – The Summerlin Avenue Improvement Project is officially underway near downtown Orlando following a brief one-week delay. Construction crews began preparations on a Monday morning, setting up construction barrels along South Street and Summerlin Avenue. This phase of the project will significantly alter traffic flow, particularly starting May 5, when a section of South Street will be reduced to a single westbound lane. The impacted area stretches from South Mills Avenue to just west of Summerlin Avenue, affecting daily commuters and residents.

Additionally, traffic moving north and south on Summerlin Avenue will face detours around closures that occur between East Anderson Street and Pine Street. The adjustments are crucial for the upgrade of the Orlando Utilities Commission’s (OUC) systems for drinking water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater management. The overall construction is expected to last approximately three years as the city responds to longstanding infrastructure needs.

The necessity for this project follows a significant water main break in October 2018 that flooded parts of the downtown area. This incident highlighted the urgent need to replace OUC’s aging water infrastructure, much of which dates back to 1938. As part of the Summerlin Avenue project, the city is investing $26 million to cover a stretch from Marks Street to South Street, aimed at replacing old brick pavers with new materials and improving essential services.

This construction initiative is scheduled primarily for weekdays, with work occurring from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., although some activities may extend into the evenings and weekends. At the outset of the project, the intersection of East Robinson Street and Summerlin Avenue will undergo a closure lasting three months to facilitate the necessary changes.

Community concerns have arisen regarding potential traffic disruptions and their impact on local commerce. Property owners and business operators have expressed anxiety that ongoing construction may deter customers and affect day-to-day operations. To mitigate these concerns, the city has committed to keeping the public informed through electronic signs along Summerlin Avenue, detailing detours and any upcoming road closures.

In addition to electronic signage, local communication efforts will involve sending postcards to nearby residents and utilizing a social media campaign, along with regular updates posted on the city’s official website. Throughout the construction period, solid waste and mail delivery services are expected to continue without interruption, assuring residents that their essential services remain intact.

Residents will also be notified ahead of time if their driveways will be obstructed during specific phases of the construction. Such precautions point to the city’s intent to maintain accessibility and quality of life in the affected neighborhoods while the project is executed.

The project not only aims to update critical utility systems; it also prioritizes enhancing the overall quality of life for residents through improved infrastructure. Key enhancements will incorporate new pedestrian signals and improved compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regarding crosswalks and curb ramps. With these steps, the Summerlin Avenue Improvement Project looks to set a foundation for a safer, more efficient downtown Orlando.