Florida Construction News staff writer
Phase I of the Grand National Drive capacity improvements is complete, a major step in the City of Orlando’s efforts to revitalize the North International Drive corridor.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and District 6 City Commissioner Bakari F. Burns led a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the upgraded stretch of roadway between Oak Ridge Road and Vanguard Street. The project, which enhances mobility and pedestrian safety, is a cornerstone of the city’s broader revitalization strategy for one of its busiest tourism and business districts.
“This project represents our commitment to safer streets, smarter infrastructure and economic growth in a key part of our city,” Dyer said. “We’re proud to deliver these improvements for residents, workers and the millions of visitors who travel through this area each year.”
The completed improvements include 10- to 12-foot multi-use sidewalks to support pedestrian and bicycle safety, redesigned streetscapes, enhanced landscaping, improved drainage and upgrades to traffic flow. City leaders say the project supports Orlando’s Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries.
In addition to improving safety and accessibility, the Grand National Drive upgrades provide an alternate route to ease congestion on Kirkman Road, particularly amid ongoing impacts from the I-4 Ultimate project.
“This is just the beginning,” said Burns. “We’re building a more connected and accessible International Drive for the future.”
The Grand National Drive improvements are part of a long-term infrastructure strategy designed to boost economic development and modernize key corridors throughout Orlando.
