ORLANDO, Fla. – Traffic near Kirkman Road and Interstate 4 is expected to worsen as Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe theme park officially opens its doors to the public on Thursday.
Thousands of additional vehicles are anticipated in the area, raising concerns among commuters and residents of nearby neighborhoods such as Tangelo Park.
Steve Gonzalez, who works near the theme park, said traffic in the area can vary depending on the time of day.
“There are certain times that it can be kind of packed. A lot of traffic,” Gonzalez said.
He noted improvements to the roadways, including the expanded Kirkman Road.
“I’ve been through there one time. I think they actually do a good job. When I passed by I said, ‘Wow, it’s been widened.’”
Lakia Taylor, who had just picked up her daughter from the Epic Universe area, echoed those concerns.
“The traffic is horrible. You have to be extra patient. There are a lot of people going everywhere, so you really have to pay attention to everyone around you,” Taylor said.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has issued a traffic advisory for Thursday and Friday. Extra patrols are expected along Kirkman Road, Universal Boulevard, and Destination Parkway to help manage the anticipated congestion.
“It’s going to be very busy tomorrow,” one resident said. “I can only imagine the traffic that is going to be around.”
In Tangelo Park, a longtime resident told News 6 that drivers have started using Mandarin Drive as a shortcut to the theme park, increasing traffic through the historic neighborhood.
Authorities are urging drivers to allow for extra time and to follow all traffic instructions in the area.