The giant elevated traffic circle near Universal Epic Universe has begun to take shape, with Universal hoping the road improvements will improve traffic flow from other theme parks.
Epic Universe Traffic Circle
Earlier this month, aerial photographer @bioreconstruct shared photos of the Orlando traffic circle under construction. The large raised circle is part of road improvements and an extension of Kirkman Road (State Road 435), creating an easier connection between Epic Universe and the rest of Universal Orlando Resort.
TikTok user @streetcraft shared the following video breaking down the use of the traffic circle and the road improvements. Changes to Kirkman/435 include simplifying its intersection with W Sand Lake Road. 435 is then extended to the south, where it will have bus lanes in between the car lanes. Guests will use the traffic circle to access Epic Universe via car, and resort buses will use it to access bus-only lanes between the new park and the rest of Universal Orlando Resort.
With this traffic circle, it appears that travel times could become more consistent, and navigating traffic will be a smoother experience — whether going to Epic Universe by car or by bus. Universal also hopes that this unique circular overpass will become an “iconic regional landmark,” due to its unique shape and height above the other roadways below.
Construction of the road and traffic circle is expected to be completed later this year. Epic Universe will open in 2025. An exact opening timeframe has not been set. The park will have five lands: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, and How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. It will also have the in-park Universal Helios Grand Hotel. Nearby will be the Universal Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resorts, which will open in January and February 2025.
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