Intended to serve as a centralized landmark, bridging the divide that the original 1960s construction of Interstate 4 caused through Central Orlando, Under-I is a proposed 9.75-acre urban park that will be constructed under the ongoing $2.3 billion Interstate 4 Ultimate construction project. Planned and funded in collaboration with the Florida Department of Transportation, construction of the unique urban park is anticipated to begin in summer 2021 with a 2024 completion date. Here is a brief look at the five block park headed to Orlando, bridging the gap between Downtown and the historic African-American community of Parramore.
The Under-I will be a vibrant Orlando landmark that bridges our diverse community and unites all of our citizens by delivering active, creative and engaging facilities that promote health, education, art, play and fellowship.
The Under-I is envisioned to be a 9.75-acre urban community park beneath the I-4 bridge decks in downtown Orlando. This area is generally bound on the north by West Washington Street, West Church Street on the south, Hughey Avenue on the west and Garland Avenue on the east. This area is also known as The Bridge District.
Construction is tentatively scheduled to start after the completion of the I-4 Ultimate construction project.
The community park will likely be developed into five conceptually programmed blocks.
Source: https://www.orlando.gov/Initiatives/Under-i-Project
A recently released video by the city of Orlando illustrating what the Under I park will look like.
For more information: https://www.orlando.gov/Initiatives/Under-i-Project
Article by Ennis Davis, AICP. Contact Ennis at edavis@moderncities.com