Universal Orlando Resort Announces Support for SunRail Station Near Epic Universe

In the summer of 2022, Brightline’s high-speed rail plan was altered to exclude Disney Springs with plans to connect to the SunRail commuter rail. The Brightline high-speed station is set to open this year at Orlando International Airport (MCO), with long-term plans to connect to Tampa.

Now, Universal Orlando Resort has realized the positive benefit that Brightline and SunRail could have to their business. According to the Orlando Sentinel, Universal filed an application to create a community development district (CDD) to finance the rail development between the airport and the convention center. The 11 miles of track would also be leased out for usage by Brightline. Universal Orlando would be the sole fee player within the new district and contribute $2 million annually to operate the SunRail station at the Orange County Convention Center.

Map of proposed Sunshine Corridor, which depicted in the darker line. (Image: Universal Orlando)

“This train is an opportunity for people that live north, south, east or west to be able to commute to work, to commute to the airport, as well as carry both residents and visitors on the trains and connect them with the convention center and downtown Orlando,” said John Sprouls, executive vice president and chief administrative at Universal Parks & Resorts.

Artist illustration of proposed station for SunRail and Brightline at the Orange County Convention Center. (Image: Universal Orlando)

As part of the presentation, concept art was shared of the proposed SunRail station that service the Orange County Convention Center and Universal’s Epic Universe. The 11 miles of track could be competed as early as 2030. Universal’s Epic Universe is scheduled to open in 2025.