It’s Wednesday, Orlando. It will stay hot and humid today and tomorrow with highs around 94°F and partly cloudy skies. Rain chances are low, nights remain mild in the mid-70s, and UV levels will be extreme during the day (per usual).

Here’s what’s on deck:

• Orange County Greenlights Futuristic I-Drive Pedestrian Bridge

• Orlando Dreamers Make Public Pitch for MLB Team

• In Other News… (PopStroke, Big Trades, New Salad Shops)

Let’s dive in.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Orange County Greenlights Futuristic I-Drive Pedestrian Bridge

What’s happening: Orange County Commissioners unanimously voted June 17 to move forward with a design and planning study for a $35.6M pedestrian bridge over the busy International Drive and Sand Lake Road intersection.

Why it matters: The intersection is one of the region’s most congested and dangerous. The bridge aims to improve pedestrian safety and regional connectivity in the heart of Orlando's tourism district.

The design: Crafted by HHCP and Avcon, the bridge features a “drone”-like structure with both elevators and stairs. Proposed elements include solar panels and customizable color-changing lights. County officials called it a “unique” design — even Las Vegas doesn’t have one this bold, according to project manager Blanche Hardy.

Funding & timeline: Backed by the International Drive CRA, the project is funded through the design phase but not yet construction. RFPs are expected mid-2025, with construction bidding in 2027. If all goes to plan, it could open by 2030 after an estimated 18-month build.

Community backing: The I-Drive Chamber and area businesses are fully on board, citing safety and tourism benefits. Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad called it an “Instagramable” project that boosts quality of life and reflects the value of a tourism-driven economy.

Big picture: The bridge complements major nearby development opportunities, including the redevelopment of the former Wyndham site and the Skyplex property — reinforcing I-Drive as a growing urban hub.

Source: OBJ

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SPORTS

Orlando Dreamers Make Public Pitch for MLB Team

What’s happening: The Orlando Dreamers ownership group made its biggest pitch yet to bring Major League Baseball to Central Florida, presenting its $2.5B vision to I-Drive business and civic leaders on June 16. The proposed stadium site sits near Aquatica and is currently owned by Orange County.

Why it matters: The group says MLB won’t greenlight a new team or relocation without public support and funding for a stadium — and so far, Orange County leaders haven’t committed. The Dreamers hope government backing will give their bid legitimacy as MLB considers expansion or relocating struggling franchises.

The pitch:

• The group includes Hall of Famer Barry Larkin and investor Dr. Rick Workman, who would serve as majority owner.

• Attorney John Morgan has pledged “hundreds of millions” if the stadium moves forward.

• Leaders argue baseball would boost tourism and local revenue, calling Orlando a stable solution to MLB’s current market instability.

The hurdles:

• No current MLB team is officially for sale.

• The Tampa Bay Rays remain the likeliest target, but there’s been no direct negotiation between the Rays and Dreamers.

• County Mayor Jerry Demings has expressed cautious interest but warned against deals that benefit billionaires without helping the local community.

What’s next: The Dreamers say they’re ready for formal talks with county officials and MLB — but the clock is ticking. Without public support soon, their longshot bid risks striking out before it steps up to the plate.

Source: Orlando Sentinel

QUICK HITS

In Other News…

1. PopStroke, the tech-driven mini golf and dining concept, is expanding in Central Florida with new locations planned for I-Drive and Winter Garden. Set to open in fall 2026, the I-Drive venue will feature a two-story design with water features and will replace the Bargain World Convention Center.

2. The Orlando Magic made a major trade to acquire sharpshooter Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks, and a pick swap.

3. Giardino Gourmet Salads is opening its first Orlando location this summer near Epic Universe. The fast-casual chain offers customizable healthy meals and has been expanding across Florida through its franchise model.

Thanks for reading — See you back here on Friday.

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